Calathea

Calathea orbifoliaAlso known as: Prayer Plant, Peacock Plant, Orbifolia

The Calathea orbifolia is a stunning tropical plant known for its large, round leaves with silvery-green stripes. Native to Bolivia, it's part of the prayer plant family and exhibits nyctinasty - leaves that move up at night and down during the day. Grows up to 2 feet (60 cm) tall indoors.

Moderate Care

Medium Light

Perennial

Quick Care Summary

Light
Medium Light

Temperature Range
60-80°F (16-27°C)

Ideal Temp
70°F (21°C)

Pet Safe

This plant is non-toxic to cats and dogs. While it's safe to have around pets, ingestion of any plant material may still cause mild stomach upset.

Seasonal Care Schedule

Adjust your care routine based on the season for optimal plant health.

Watering Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Every 5-7 days, keep soil consistently moist but not soggy
Summer	Every 4-5 days, never let soil dry out completely
Fall	Every 7-10 days
Winter	Every 10-14 days, slightly reduce frequency

Very sensitive to tap water chemicals. Use filtered, distilled, or rainwater only. Brown leaf tips indicate water quality issues.

Misting Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Daily or use a humidifier
Summer	Multiple times daily in dry conditions
Fall	Daily
Winter	Daily - combat dry indoor heating

Requires high humidity (50%+). A humidifier is highly recommended.

Fertilizing Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Monthly with diluted balanced fertilizer
Summer	Monthly at half-strength
Fall	Every 6-8 weeks
Winter	No fertilizing

Light feeder. Over-fertilizing causes brown leaf edges.

Pruning

Frequency: As needed to remove damaged leaves

Best Season: Any time

Cut damaged or brown leaves at the base. Remove dead leaves promptly to prevent disease.

Repotting

Frequency: Every 1-2 years

Best Season: Spring

Use well-draining, peat-based mix. Doesn't like to be rootbound. Handle roots gently.

Propagation Methods

Division during repotting
Separate clumps ensuring each division has roots

Common Problems

Brown leaf tips: Tap water chemicals, low humidity, or over-fertilizing
Curling leaves: Underwatering or low humidity
Fading patterns: Too much direct light
Yellow leaves: Overwatering or cold drafts

Pro Tips

Keep away from drafts and heating/cooling vents
Watch the leaves move throughout the day - it's mesmerizing
Group with other humidity-loving plants
Avoid direct sunlight which bleaches the beautiful patterns

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