Prayer Plant
calathea orbifolia
Also known as: ["Silver Plate","Round-Leaf Calathea"]
Overview
A tropical evergreen perennial with large, silvery-green leaves and striking patterns, native to the tropical forests of South America.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","shade tolerant","air purifying"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Zingiberales |
| Family: | Marantaceae |
| Genus: | Calathea |
| Botanical Name: | Calathea orbifolia |
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 to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, rich potting mix with peat, perlite, and organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every few months or when leaves show signs of damage.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on removing unsightly or dead foliage.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; avoid direct sun to prevent leaf burn.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to brighter light if needed; keep away from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement seasonally.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright, indirect light
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct light.
Watering
every 5–7 days, allowing top inch of soil to dry out
Use distilled or rainwater to avoid mineral buildup; maintain consistent moisture but avoid waterlogging.
Soil
moist, well-draining potting mix with peat
pH: Acidic to slightly acidic (pH 6.0–6.5).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); thrives in stable, warm conditions with high humidity.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain stable humidity levels.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth (spring and summer), every 3 months with slow-release fertilizer
Clean leaves before fertilizing to avoid residue; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Division during repotting is the primary method; stem cuttings are less reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate clumps with roots, pot individually, water thoroughly, maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–80°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or orchid bark for division; moist sphagnum moss for cuttings.
Hormone
Not typically required for division; rooting hormone may help for cuttings.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment; cuttings: roots in 4–6 weeks, full growth in several months.
Tools Needed
Sharp, sterile knife, pots, moist soil mix, plastic bag or propagator for humidity.
Quick Tips
Ensure each division has healthy roots; maintain consistent moisture for cuttings.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut leaves at the base with clean, sharp tools; avoid cutting into healthy growth.
Pruning Plan
Remove yellow or damaged leaves to maintain appearance and health; encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Clean scissors or pruning shears, gloves.
Checklist
Identify damaged leaves, use clean tools, cut at base, dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot, prepare new soil, handle roots carefully, water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, use appropriate water, water evenly, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
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 coarse sand for drainage; incorporate peat moss for moisture retention.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Curling leaves, brown leaf tips, or drooping can indicate temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf discoloration or damage.
Solution: Keep away from drafty windows or AC vents; maintain consistent room temperature.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced vigor.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a humidifier.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute correctly, apply to soil, avoid foliage, flush periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use 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 orbifolia is not toxic to cats. The plant does not contain any known substances that are harmful to felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicCalathea orbifolia 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 orbifolia is not considered toxic to humans. It does not produce any known harmful compounds that would cause adverse physiological effects upon ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why are the leaves of my Calathea orbifolia curling?
A: Leaf curling can be caused by low humidity, underwatering, or exposure to cold drafts. Increase humidity and ensure proper watering.
Q: How often should I water my Calathea orbifolia?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically once a week, but adjust based on environmental conditions.
Q: Can Calathea orbifolia tolerate direct sunlight?
A: No, it prefers indirect, dappled light. Direct sunlight can scorch its leaves.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Marantaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright, indirect light |
| Water: | every 5–7 days, allowing top |
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