How to Care for and Grow Calathea Ornata Plant
Calathea Ornata also called the prayer plant, pine-stripe, zebra plant, peacock plant, etc… is native to South America (Colombia, Venezuela) and is a genus of plants belonging to the family Marantaceae. There are said to be over 300 species of these garden beauties of which many can be found growing in tropical regions such as Thailand, Africa, the West Indies, and Central America.
This low-maintenance plant that is non-toxic to humans and pets will put on a show for you with its pinstriped leaves that are so stunning. The calathea ornata brings a tropical flavor that is worth the investment so give it a try and see for yourself. You will be so happy that you did, with that said let’s take a closer look as we venture into the world of this garden beauty.
How to grow and calathea ornata plant
Growing calathea ornata is not hard at all, following these steps will ensure that you are successful in growing and caring for this garden beauty.
1. When installing calathea ornata plants indoors place near a south-facing window because this area of the house will provide bright indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight will cause the plant leaves to burn, a west-facing window will work as well.
2. The soil of the calathea ornata should be moist and not allowed to dry, however, be very careful not to overwater which can lead to root rot.
3. During the growing months which is from late spring to early fall calathea ornata can be feed with a regular house plant fertilizer diluted at half strength every four weeks.
Where to place calathea ornata plant
These are just a few suggestions to place your calathea ornata provided they are getting sufficient indirect sunlight.
1. Calathea can be placed on a table next to a south 0r west-facing window.
2. The kitchen countertop is an ideal spot
3. Place calathea as a centerpiece on your dining table.
4. How about finding a space on your coffee table.
5. Place calathea outdoors in a seating area such as a patio table.
What about you can you think of another place to put this garden beauty?
Common pests of the calathea ornata plant
Spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids may show up at your doorstep but the good news is these uninvited guests can be eliminated by using insecticidal soap or neem oil. Before using pesticides read and follow the directions on the label.
Calathea ornata diseases
Keep an eye out for these diseases and treat them when spotted.
Common diseases of calathea ornata are root rot, rust, powdery mildew.
1. Root rot: Root rot affects garden plants when there is an excess of water or soil with poor drainage, to curve or avoids this problem don’t overwater calathea although they require moist soil. Soils that are waterlogged however or saturated with water will encourage this disease. Monitor the amount of water you give your plant.
2. Rust: Rust shows up as discolored masses on the leaves, following the proper watering methods along with giving them the right amount of sunlight and the proper spacing will allow for good air circulation safeguarding against this disease.
3. Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is encouraged by poor air circulation, this disease appears as a white powdery substance on the plant’s leaves. Therefore it is important that your calathea gets sufficient room to breathe by proper spacing from other plants also the use of a fungicide will offer help. Before using read and follow the label for best results.
Other symptoms to keep a watch for
1.Yellow leaves and black base is caused by over watering.
2. Curling leaves that also wilts along with dry soil is a sign of underwater.
3. Leaf spot is caused by fungal infection or a mineral build from tap water, use distilled water by watering directly in surrounding potting soil.
Calathea ornata humidity
The humidity plays an important part in the life of calathea ornata, here are few ways to ensure this indoor beauty is getting adequate humidity.
1. Place the plant on a tray that is covered with a layer of pebbles, add water to the pebbles which will maintain the humidity level around the plant’s roots.
2. The bathroom or the kitchen because of its humidity level also makes a great area to place your calathea.
3. A humidifier can help in drawing moisture to your plant.
4. Two or three times a week misting the leaves with room temperature water will provide the right amount of humidity.
Calathea ornata temperature requirements
The temperature plays an important part when growing plants indoors, cold drafts and sudden swings in the temperature can have an adverse effect. For your calathea ornata to thrive ensure that the temperature is around 65 to 85 °F (18 to 29 °C) and a minimum of 60 °F (15.5 °C).
Calathea ornata pruning procedures
With a scissor or hand pruner make the cut near the stem of the leaves that are overgrown or badly damage. For plants that have crispy (brown) or dry tips or edges trim also with a scissor or pruner flowering the natural curve of the leaf.
Calathea ornata repotting
When repotting your calathea the use of a peat-base mixture is ideal, two parts peat and one part perlite will get the job done.
The final word on calathea ornata plant care
Calathea ornata is an indoor garden beauty that is simple to care for, this tropical plant will give your indoor living space a taste of paradise or should I say a feel of the tropics. I have worked with calathea ornata over the years on many interior plantscape projects. This plant will work wonders for your interior as it goes to work for you.
About the author
Norman loves being in the garden, both at home and for his job....
he is 'Natures Little helper' being outdoors, growing his vegetables and flowers from an early age.
Now having spent over 22 years in the profession he want to give some of his knowledge to others...
his vast array of hints and tips you will find scattered over this site will help you no end growing plants in your garden.