Guzman's plant, Jungle velvet
calathea warscewiczii
Also known as: ["Calathea warszewiczii","Guzman's plant","Jungle velvet"]
Overview
A tropical plant known for its striking, velvety leaves with intricate patterns and contrasting colors.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","shade tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Zingiberales |
| Family: | Marantaceae |
| Genus: | Calathea |
| Botanical Name: | Calathea warscewiczii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a humid environment 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 levels
- 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 leaves show signs of damage.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on removing only unhealthy or dead foliage.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to lower light in summer to prevent leaf burn.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to brighter light; keep away from direct sun; provide dappled light if outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright, indirect light
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains to filter light; avoid south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 5–7 days, allowing top inch of soil to dry 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 heavy clay soils; maintain consistent moisture.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); cooler temperatures at night are tolerated but avoid drafts.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain stable conditions; use a thermometer to monitor.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth (spring and summer) with diluted balanced liquid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Division at repotting time; separate root clumps with healthy stems and leaves.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate root clumps, pot in fresh medium, water lightly, maintain humidity, provide warmth.
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 added perlite or orchid bark.
Hormone
Not typically required for division, but can help with cuttings if used.
Timeline
Roots establish within 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or shears, pots, well-draining soil, humidity dome or plastic bag.
Quick Tips
Ensure each division has roots and foliage; maintain consistent moisture; avoid direct sun.
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
Pruning shears, scissors, or a sharp knife.
Checklist
Identify damaged leaves, use clean tools, cut at base, dispose of clippings, clean tools after use.
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; beneficial for growth and soil refresh.
Checklist
Prepare new pot, trim roots if necessary, use fresh soil, water lightly, place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, use appropriate water, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, avoid leaf 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 compost for fertility; use peat moss for acidity.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Curling leaves, brown leaf edges, or wilting in extreme heat; leaf drop or stunted growth in cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to pests.
Solution: Move to a warmer spot, insulate pots, and avoid placing near cold drafts or windows.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or develop brown spots; transpiration increases, leading to dehydration.
Solution: Increase humidity, provide shade, and water more frequently without overwatering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase, use diluted fertilizer, apply to moist soil, avoid foliage contact, flush 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 warscewiczii is not known to be toxic to cats. It poses no significant risk if ingested or handled by cats.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicCalathea warscewiczii is not known to be toxic to dogs. It poses no significant risk if ingested or handled by dogs.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicCalathea warscewiczii is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and presence in living spaces.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Calathea warscewiczii?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically once a week, but adjust based on humidity and temperature.
Q: Does Calathea warscewiczii need direct sunlight?
A: No, it prefers bright, indirect light and can suffer in direct sun.
Q: Why are the leaves of my Calathea warscewiczii curling?
A: This may indicate low humidity or underwatering; increase humidity or adjust watering.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Marantaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright, indirect light |
| Water: | every 5–7 days, allowing top |
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