Bella Prayer Plant
calathea bella
Also known as: ["Prayer Plant","Zebra Plant"]
Overview
A tropical evergreen perennial with strikingly patterned foliage and a unique prayer-like leaf movement.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","shade tolerant","air purifying"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Zingiberales |
| Family: | Marantaceae |
| Genus: | Calathea |
| Botanical Name: | Calathea bella |
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; a mix of peat, perlite, and coco coir works well.
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 sunlight which can scorch leaves. Adjust for lower light in winter.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to brighter light if moving from low light; keep away from direct sun; place in a north or east-facing window indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright, indirect light
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct light; monitor for leaf burn.
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; avoid letting the plant sit in water.
Soil
moist, well-draining, peat-based potting mix
pH: Acidic to slightly acidic, 5.5–6.5.
Ensure pot has drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; check moisture before watering.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); thrives in stable temperatures, avoiding drafts or sudden fluctuations.
Avoid placing near drafty windows or vents; maintain consistent room temperature; monitor for signs of stress.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth (spring and summer), every 3 months with slow-release fertilizer
Always water before fertilizing to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to remove salt buildup; apply in early morning or late evening.
Propagation
Methods
Division during repotting is the most reliable method; stem cuttings with nodes can also be attempted but are less successful.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide clumps at root level, ensure each division has leaves and roots.
- Plant in separate pots with fresh soil.
- Water lightly and maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Hormone
Optional but can improve rooting success, especially for stem cuttings.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment; stem cuttings: roots in 4–6 weeks, new growth in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or shears, pots, fresh potting mix, humidity dome or plastic bag.
Quick Tips
Ensure divisions have healthy roots and leaves; maintain high humidity for cuttings; avoid overwatering new plants.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut leaves at the base of the stem with clean, sharp tools; avoid cutting into healthy growth.
Pruning Plan
Remove yellow or damaged leaves to maintain appearance and plant health; shape as needed to encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Clean scissors or pruning shears, disinfectant solution.
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 any circling roots, place in a new pot with fresh soil, water lightly, and place in indirect light.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for growth and soil refresh.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, trim roots if needed, use fresh soil, water lightly, adjust to new location.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, use appropriate water, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even saturation of the root zone. Allow excess water to drain completely before returning to the saucer.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot. Adjust based on humidity and temperature.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use peat moss to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf curling or wilting in cold; yellowing or browning leaf edges in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root rot due to reduced water uptake.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; use a space heater if needed; ensure soil is not overly wet.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown tips; increased transpiration can lead to dehydration.
Solution: Increase humidity with a pebble tray or mister; provide shade during peak heat; water more frequently if soil dries out quickly.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute correctly, water before applying, avoid foliage contact, flush periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a 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 bella is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not produce any known harmful compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicCalathea bella is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not produce any known harmful compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicCalathea bella is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for ingestion, though it is not typically consumed as food.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why are the leaves of my Calathea bella curling?
A: Leaf curling is often due to low humidity or underwatering. Increase humidity and ensure consistent watering.
Q: Does Calathea bella flower indoors?
A: While it can produce small, inconspicuous flowers, it is primarily grown for its ornamental foliage.
Q: How often should I water Calathea bella?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically once a week, but adjust based on environmental conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Marantaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright, indirect light |
| Water: | every 5–7 days, allowing soi |
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