Bachem's Calathea
calathea bachemiana
Also known as: ["Bachem's Prayer Plant"]
Overview
A tropical evergreen perennial with strikingly patterned foliage, native to the rainforests of Brazil.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","shade tolerant","air purifying"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Zingiberales |
| Family: | Marantaceae |
| Genus: | Calathea |
| Botanical Name: | Calathea bachemiana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a humid environment with bright, indirect 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, peat-based mix with perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every few months or when leaves decline.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on removing only unhealthy 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 for filtered light; avoid west-facing windows.
Watering
every 5–7 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Use distilled or rainwater to avoid mineral buildup; maintain consistent moisture, never letting the soil dry out completely.
Soil
moist, well-draining, peat-based potting mix
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; check soil pH periodically.
Temperature
65–80°F (18–27°C); prefers stable temperatures, avoiding drafts or sudden fluctuations.
Avoid placing near vents; maintain stable room temperature; use a thermometer to monitor.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth (spring and summer), every 3 months with slow-release fertilizer
Clean leaves before fertilizing; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent leaf burn; flush soil occasionally to remove buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes during repotting.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Remove plant from pot.
- Separate rhizomes with roots attached.
- Repot divisions in fresh soil.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light.
Medium
Standard potting mix with added perlite for drainage.
Hormone
Not required 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; avoid cutting into healthy growth.
Pruning Plan
Remove yellow or damaged leaves to maintain appearance and health; encourage fuller growth.
Tools
Clean scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune only damaged leaves; dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, 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; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare new soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; use appropriate water type; ensure proper drainage; water early in the day.
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 orchid bark to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like peat for moisture retention.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Curling leaves, brown leaf tips, or wilting in cold; yellowing or drooping in heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to pests.
Solution: Move to a warmer spot; use a space heater if needed; insulate pots in cold rooms.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; soil dries out faster, leading to dehydration.
Solution: Increase humidity with misting or pebble trays; provide shade; water more frequently.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use correct dilution; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter applications.
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 bachemiana is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not produce any known harmful compounds that would affect feline health.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicCalathea bachemiana is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not produce any known harmful compounds that would affect canine health.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicCalathea bachemiana is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for human contact and consumption.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why are the leaves of my Calathea bachemiana curling?
A: Leaf curling is often due to low humidity or inconsistent watering. Increase humidity and ensure the soil remains consistently moist.
Q: Does Calathea bachemiana flower?
A: While it can produce small, inconspicuous flowers, it is primarily grown for its decorative foliage.
Q: How often should I water Calathea bachemiana?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically once a week, ensuring the plant does not sit in water.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Marantaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright, indirect light |
| Water: | every 5–7 days, allowing soi |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
