Calathea Plants

We have a diverse range of gorgeous Calathea plants to choose from. They differ from one another in leaf shape and size and ornate leaf design. If you prefer more upright Calatheas with elongated, crinkle cut leaves, choose Calathea Rattlesnake, or Calathea Rufibarba. On the other hand, deep purple Calathea Dottie and spectacularly patterned Calathea Medallion are broader and more expansive, perfect for filling an empty space with some dazzling foliage.

Calatheas have a reputation for being a bit diva-ish and it’s true they can be a little fussy. However, if you take some time to understand their needs, you will be rewarded with an opulently beautiful plant that offers a range of wonderful wellness benefits. Plus, the meditative Calathea care processes are the ideal stress-busting hobby. 

Light

 Calathea plants like plenty of bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can cause their colours to fade and their distinctive leaf markings to disappear. They can tolerate some shade (as in their native home on the forest floor of tropical rainforests) but prefer diffused sunlight. 

Humidity

Calatheas like it hot! And by hot, we mean warm and steamy like the humid conditions of their tropical home. To help your Calathea plant stay happy, healthy and humid, be sure to mist its leaves regularly and place it on a pebble tray or near a humidifier. You can also keep your Calathea in the bathroom to take advantage of all that lovely shower steam, so long as it gets enough light. Always keep your Calathea plant away from drafts. 

Water

Keep the soil of your Calathea slightly moist at all times. You can do this by watering when the first 5cm of the soil feels dry. Water thoroughly, but don’t let your Calathea sit in water as this can cause root rot. 

Top Tip - Try watering your Calathea with filtered water, rainwater or tap water that has been left to sit out overnight. 

For even more info on how to care for your Calathea queen and the benefits she offers, check out this handy guide in our very own Plant Care A-Z. 

If the leaves on your Calathea plant are consistently curled (not just curling up at night and opening in the morning), then this is a signal of distress. But don’t worry - we’re here to help you figure out what’s going on! Curling leaves are usually a sign of underwatering or too much direct sunlight. 

• If you’ve accidentally let your Calathea's soil dry out completely, give it a good soak until all the soil is evenly damp.
• If the leaves continue to curl after you’ve updated your watering schedule, try using filtered or rainwater as Calatheas can be sensitive to the chemicals in tap water.
• Finally, check whether your Calathea is receiving too much sun, or if it’s not getting enough humidity and adjust conditions accordingly. 

Calatheas like their soil to be moist at all times. Water your Calathea plant when the top 5cm of soil feels dry. Lift your Calathea out of its decorative pot and water until you see water come out of the drainage holes. Keep your Calathea elevated until no more water drips out before returning it to its place. 

Regular morning misting will also help keep your Calathea glossy and thriving. 

In general, your Calathea will need to be watered around once a week in the spring and summer and around once a fortnight in the winter months. However, conditions vary in every home so be sure to check in with your Calathea and see if it’s showing any signs of thirst (drooping, curling leaves, turning brown and crispy etc). 

Be sure not to overwater your Calathea as this can cause the roots to rot away. 

For even more info on how to care for your Calathea queen and the benefits she offers, check out this handy guide in our very own Plant Care A-Z.