Captive Calathea
calathea picturata
Also known as: ["Captive Calathea","Painted Calathea"]
Overview
A tropical plant with striking, colorful foliage, native to South America.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Zingiberales |
| Family: | Marantaceae |
| Genus: | Calathea |
| Botanical Name: | Calathea picturata |
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 in organic matter; peat-based mix with perlite or orchid bark.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every few months or when dead leaves accumulate.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on removing only damaged or unsightly foliage.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; avoid direct sun to prevent leaf burn.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to light gradually; place in east-facing windows or under sheer curtains for filtered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright, indirect light
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; monitor for leaf scorch or fading.
Watering
every 5–7 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Use distilled or rainwater to avoid mineral buildup; maintain consistent moisture but avoid waterlogging.
Soil
moist, well-draining, peat-based potting mix
pH: Acidic to slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; refresh topsoil annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); cooler temperatures at night are acceptable but avoid drafts.
Avoid placing near heating/cooling vents; maintain stable temperatures; monitor for stress signs.
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 of rhizomes during repotting; stem cuttings are less reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate rhizomes with healthy roots, pot in fresh medium, maintain humidity, and provide indirect light.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand for aeration.
Hormone
Optional, but can aid root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–6 weeks; new growth in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or shears, pots, rooting hormone (optional), humidity dome or plastic bag.
Quick Tips
Ensure each division has leaves and roots; maintain consistent moisture and humidity.
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 aesthetics and plant health; encourage fuller growth.
Tools
Clean scissors or pruning shears, disinfectant.
Checklist
Identify damaged leaves, use clean tools, cut at the base, dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., 2–3 inches wider diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot, prepare fresh soil, inspect roots, water after repotting, place in suitable light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, use appropriate water, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, avoid foliage wetting.
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 or coco coir for moisture retention.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, curling, or browning leaf edges; bud drop or stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root rot due to reduced water uptake.
Solution: Move plant away from cold drafts; maintain stable temperatures above 60°F (15°C); increase humidity.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or drooping due to excessive transpiration and water loss.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use humidity trays or misting.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer, apply during growing season, avoid winter feeding, flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCalathea picturata is not considered toxic to cats. It does not produce any known toxic compounds that would cause harm to felines upon ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicCalathea picturata is not considered toxic to dogs. It does not contain any known substances that would be harmful to canines if ingested.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicCalathea picturata 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: How often should I water Calathea picturata?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically once a week, but adjust based on humidity and temperature.
Q: Does Calathea picturata need direct sunlight?
A: No, it prefers indirect, dappled light or partial shade.
Q: Why are the leaves of my Calathea picturata curling?
A: This may indicate underwatering, low humidity, or exposure to cold drafts.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Marantaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright, indirect light |
| Water: | every 5–7 days, allowing soi |
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