Enciclopedia Zingiberales Marantaceae Marantoideae Calathea
Calathea
Marantaceae

Calathea

Peacock Plant
RegnoPlantae
SottoregnoTracheobionta
SuperdivisioneSpermatophyta
DivisioneMagnoliophyta
ClasseLiliopsida
OrdineZingiberales
FamigliaMarantaceae
SottofamigliaMarantoideae
GenereCalathea
Luce
Medium high
Acqua
Medium high
Specie
12

Calathea, commonly referred to as Peacock Plant or Prayer Plant, is a captivating genus of tropical and subtropical plants renowned for their striking foliage. The genus includes around 60 species, each boasting unique leaf patterns, sizes, and colors. Calathea plants are prized for their ornamental value and are popular both as houseplants and garden specimens.

Habitat naturale
Calathea species originate from tropical regions of the Americas, primarily in Brazil. They thrive in humid environments, often found in rainforests and along stream banks. These plants typically grow in the understory of forests, where they receive filtered sunlight. The natural habitat of Calathea plants is characterized by high humidity, warm temperatures, and rich, well-draining soil.
Storia e cultura
Calathea plants have a rich cultural history in their native regions. In many cultures, they are considered symbols of new beginnings and purification. The large, striking leaves of some species have been used in various cultural rituals and as food sources in certain indigenous communities.
Utilizzi
In modern times, Calathea plants are primarily grown for their ornamental value. Their dramatic foliage makes them popular choices for interior decoration and landscape design. The wide variety of species and cultivars available allows for diverse aesthetic applications, from the bold, patterned leaves of Calathea orbifolia to the more delicate, intricately lined leaves of Calathea 'Medallion'.
Conservazione
While many Calathea species are commonly cultivated, some are considered rare or endangered in their natural habitats due to habitat destruction and over-harvesting. Conservation efforts are important to preserve the genetic diversity and ecological roles of these plants in their native regions.
Specie e varietà (12)
Calathea crocata
Calathea lancifolia
Calathea lietzei
Calathea lietzei
1 cultivar
Calathea loeseneri
Calathea loeseneri
Calathea makoyana
Calathea musaica
Calathea orbifolia
Calathea ornata
Calathea ornata
Calathea roseopicta
1 cultivar
Calathea rufibarba
Calathea warscewiczii
Calathea zebrina
Guida alla cura
Luce

Bright to medium indirect light is ideal for Calathea (now reclassified as Goeppertia). The spectacular leaf patterning develops best in good filtered light — a spot near a window with a sheer curtain, or 1–2 metres from a sunny window. Avoid direct sun entirely, which bleaches and scorches the patterned leaves rapidly. Calathea tolerates lower light but growth slows and markings lose contrast.

Acqua

Keep the soil consistently and evenly moist — allow only the top 1–2 cm to dry between waterings. CRITICAL: Calathea is extremely sensitive to fluoride and chlorine in tap water. Even low fluoride concentrations cause brown leaf tips and edges. Always use rainwater, distilled water or tap water left to stand in an open container for 24 hours. Hard (limey) water also causes damage over time — use filtered or soft water.

Substrato

Moisture-retentive but well-draining mix: 60% peat or coco coir, 20% perlite, 20% fine bark. Slightly acidic pH (5.5–6.5). Avoid dense, compacting soils.

Temperatura e umidità

Optimal 18–27 °C; minimum 15 °C. High humidity (60–80%) is essential — dry air is the primary cause of brown leaf edges in Calathea. Use a humidifier (most effective), pebble tray with water, or group with other plants. Avoid cold drafts and heating/air conditioning vents entirely.

Concimazione

Feed every 2–3 weeks during spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength. Stop in winter. The delicate root system is easily burned — never exceed half strength.

Potatura

Remove any yellowed or damaged leaves at the base. Calathea performs nyctinastic movement — the leaves rise vertically at night and lower during the day in response to light changes. This is completely normal and a sign of a healthy plant. Repot every 2 years in spring. Note: Calathea has been extensively reclassified — many popular species are now correctly named Goeppertia (e.g. G. orbifolia, G. ornata, G. medallion) but are sold interchangeably as Calathea.

Propagazione
Divisione

The most common method for propagating Calathea is by division. This involves separating the rhizomes or tubers during repotting. Ensure the parent plant is healthy before proceeding.

1
Carefully remove the plant from its pot and gently shake off excess soil to expose the roots.
2
Locate natural divisions in the root ball where new shoots are emerging.
3
Use a sharp, sterilized knife to cut the rhizomes or tubers, ensuring each division has at least one shoot and some roots.
4
Plant each division in a separate pot with a well-draining potting mix, water thoroughly, and place in bright, indirect light.
Polloni/figli

Some Calathea species produce offsets, or "pups," which can be separated from the parent plant and potted individually.

1
Gently pull or cut the offsets from the base of the parent plant.
2
Pot the offsets in a small container with a well-draining potting mix.
3
Water lightly and keep in a warm, humid environment with indirect light.
Domande frequenti
Why does my Calathea always get brown tips no matter what I do?
Brown tips in Calathea are almost universally caused by fluoride or chlorine in tap water. Even small amounts damage the leaf margins over time. Switch immediately to rainwater or distilled water. Increase humidity to 60%+ with a humidifier. Existing brown tips will not reverse but new growth should emerge clean.
Why do my Calathea leaves move?
This is nyctinastic movement — the leaves fold upward at night and open during the day in response to changing light. It is a natural, healthy behaviour found in all Marantaceae plants. If the leaves stay folded during the day, the plant may be in too much shade.
Is Calathea really that difficult?
It has a reputation for difficulty, mainly due to its fluoride/water sensitivity and humidity requirements. Using rainwater or distilled water, maintaining humidity above 60% with a humidifier, and keeping it away from cold drafts and direct sun solves 90% of Calathea problems. With these factors controlled, it is actually quite robust.
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