Calatheas are an incredible choice for houseplant enthusiasts, with around 60 varieties, each boasting distinct patterns and colors. Their unique looks make them a fantastic way to enhance your home's decor.
However, caring for calatheas can be a bit challenging. These plants often droop when not given the right amount of water, light, or temperature. Fortunately, a few simple care tips can help you enjoy their stunning foliage without hassle.
Wondering which calathea to choose? A plant specialist highlights five varieties that will complement any home, along with key care advice for keeping them healthy.
5 Stunning Calathea Varieties
Although classified under the genus Goeppertia now, many still refer to them as calatheas, explains Lisa Eldred Steinkopf, a houseplant expert.
Fascinated by their captivating looks? Their nickname, 'prayer plant,' comes from their leaves that open during the day and close at night, resembling hands in prayer—making them delightful to watch.
Explore five of the best calathea varieties for your collection below:
1. Rattlesnake Calathea
The rattlesnake calathea (Calathea lancifolia), now known as Goeppertia insignis, was the first plant I added to my collection. Its wavy edges and purple undersides captivated me instantly.
Growing a rattlesnake plant has been fairly easy for me, though I learned the hard way when my leaves curled from dry soil. Using a soil moisture meter from Amazon has helped since then.
Lisa advises providing this plant with east or west window light, ensuring it's kept moist but not waterlogged.
This calathea features long, wavy green leaves adorned with a brushstroke pattern resembling reptile skin.
2. Calathea Orbifolia
If you want a taller calathea, consider Calathea orbifolia (Goeppertia orbifolia), a larger variety perfect for creating an indoor jungle vibe.
Its large, round leaves can reach up to a foot across. The species name orbifolia comes from the Latin words for 'circle' and 'leaf,' according to Lisa.
This variety pairs beautifully with Monstera deliciosa, but be cautious about keeping its leaves clean, as they can accumulate dust.
3. Calathea Medallion
One of the most sought-after prayer plants, Calathea medallion (or Calathea veitchiana) features foliage that appears almost 'painted,' with striking markings.
To maintain its unique appearance, ensure it receives adequate lighting, preferring bright light while avoiding direct sunlight to prevent leaf scorch.
Consistent moisture is essential for this variety, so be mindful of watering to avoid dry or overly saturated soil, which can lead to browning leaf tips.
4. Calathea Roseopicta
Calathea roseopicta combines the charm of pink and dark foliage. 'This variety stands out due to its pink stripes on the leaves,' Lisa remarks.
This rare color combination makes it a fantastic addition to your plant collection. Keep in mind that these plants thrive in higher humidity, so they may not suit drier rooms. Consider using a humidifier from Amazon to boost moisture.
5. Furry Feather Calathea
The furry feather calathea (Goeppertia rufibarba) is aptly named for its slender, feather-like leaves and the fuzzy texture on the reverse side.
It's my personal favorite—people are often surprised at how soft the leaves feel. This variety typically grows up to three feet tall and spreads up to two feet. Regular misting is recommended using a plant mister from Amazon to maintain humidity and keep the leaves clean.
This tropical beauty boasts soft green leaves with a unique texture and is available in a 4-inch nursery pot.
While all calatheas share similar care needs, avoid common mistakes to keep them thriving. Each variety may have slightly different requirements, so it's wise to do some research to provide the best care possible. Once you've mastered their care, consider propagating your calathea to expand your collection.
