Calathea care
Calathea orbifolia
This stunning plant is prized for its large, round leaves featuring striking silver-green stripes. It is a popular choice for indoor spaces where its unique foliage can act as a living piece of art.
Light
Medium light
Keep it in a spot with bright, indirect light away from harsh direct sun which can scorch the leaves.
Water
About every 5 days. Check the soil first.
Water when the top inch of soil feels slightly dry to the touch, ensuring the soil remains consistently moist but never waterlogged.
Temperature
Happy between 15°C and 28°C.
Pets
Safe for pets
This plant is non-toxic and safe to keep around curious cats and dogs.
Soil and pot
Well-draining peat-based mix
Pot with drainage holes
What usually goes wrong
- Brown leaf edges
- Yellowing leaves
- Spider mites
- Curling leaves
See plant problems for what to do.
Care guide
One of the fussier common houseplants — it wants consistently moist (not wet) soil, high humidity, and no direct sun, which scorches its patterned leaves. Tap water minerals often cause brown edges; filtered or rested water helps.
Is your Calathea doing okay?
Take a photo in daylight and get a plain answer in under a minute. Your first scan needs no account.