Zebra Plant
calathea zebrina
Also known as: ["Zebra Calathea","Zebra-patterned plant"]
Overview
A tropical evergreen perennial with striking, dark green leaves patterned with bold, light green stripes resembling a zebra's stripes.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Zingiberales |
| Family: | Marantaceae |
| Genus: | Calathea |
| Botanical Name: | Calathea zebrina |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a humid room with bright, filtered light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–27°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"11–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, rich potting mix with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every few months.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch leaves.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to brighter light if needed; place in a north or east-facing window indoors; provide shade outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright, indirect light
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light.
Watering
every 5–7 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Use distilled or rainwater to avoid mineral buildup; ensure soil is evenly moist but not waterlogged.
Soil
moist, well-draining, peat-based potting mix
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).
Use a mix with good aeration; avoid heavy garden soil.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); cooler temperatures at night are acceptable.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; use a humidifier in dry environments.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth (spring and summer), every 3 months with slow-release fertilizer
Clean leaves before fertilizing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes during repotting.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Remove plant from pot, separate rhizomes with roots, repot each division in fresh soil.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Standard potting mix with added perlite for drainage.
Hormone
Not necessary for rhizome division.
Timeline
Immediate establishment if divisions are healthy; new growth may appear in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or shears, new pots, potting mix.
Quick Tips
Ensure each division has healthy roots; maintain high humidity post-division.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut leaves at the base with clean tools.
Pruning Plan
Remove yellow or damaged leaves to maintain plant health and aesthetics.
Tools
Sharp, sterilized scissors or pruners.
Checklist
Identify damaged leaves, use clean tools, cut cleanly at the base.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant, trim roots if necessary, place in a new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the pot to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot, prepare new soil, handle roots gently, water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, use appropriate water, water evenly, ensure drainage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even saturation of the root zone; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate peat moss for acidity.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, wilting, or leaf curling in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer spot, avoid drafts, and maintain consistent temperatures.
Hot Stress
Leaves may brown, curl, or drop; soil dries out faster.
Solution: Increase humidity, provide shade, and water more frequently.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer, apply during growing season, avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCalathea zebrina is not toxic to cats. The plant does not produce any known compounds that are harmful to felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicCalathea zebrina is not toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain any known substances that are harmful to canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicCalathea zebrina is not considered toxic to humans. It does not produce any known harmful compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why are the leaves of my Calathea zebrina turning yellow?
A: Yellow leaves can indicate overwatering, underwatering, or low humidity. Ensure proper watering and maintain humidity levels.
Q: How often should I water my Zebra Plant?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically once a week, but adjust based on environmental conditions.
Q: Does Calathea zebrina need direct sunlight?
A: No, it prefers bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch its leaves.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Marantaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright, indirect light |
| Water: | every 5–7 days, allowing soi |
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