How to care for your Calathea
How to care for your Calathea
Our tips for helping it grow healthy and strong
Calathea sanderiana, also known as the Pinstripe Plant, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to tropical America. At our nursery, we love it for its elegant, striped leaves, which add an exotic and refined touch to any setting. It requires specific care to fully express its beauty.
The right location
The Calathea prefers bright, indirect light. It is important to avoid direct exposure to sunlight, which could damage its delicate leaves. Place it in a well-lit room, but away from windows where the sun shines directly.
When and how to water it
During the summer, we recommend watering the Calathea every 3 days, while in winter, every 7 days is sufficient. Make sure to water thoroughly, but let the soil dry out slightly between waterings. A good way to check the moisture level is to insert a finger into the soil.
Temperature and humidity
The Calathea thrives in an environment with temperatures between 18°C and 24°C, but it can tolerate up to 30°C. It is essential to maintain a high humidity level, at least 60%, to prevent the leaves from drying out.
The right fertilizer
During the growing season, in spring and summer, fertilize your Calathea every 30 days with a balanced liquid fertilizer. This will help the plant maintain its vitality and grow vigorously.
The pot and soil
Use well-draining, humus-rich soil composed of peat, perlite, and bark. This mix will provide good drainage and nutrients. Repot the plant when necessary, preferably in spring, to give it enough room to grow.
How to propagate it
The Calathea can be propagated by division, a moderately easy method that is most effective during repotting in spring. Be sure to separate the roots carefully to avoid damaging them.
Our final advice
The Calathea is a plant that loves attention. Regularly monitor its condition and don't hesitate to move it if you notice signs of stress, such as yellowing leaves. With a little care and dedication, your Calathea will reward you with its unique beauty.
— Giulia's Gardens
Verified care data
These data come directly from the validated botanical profile used to generate the guide.
- Light
- medium · Bright indirect light
- Watering
- 3 days in summer · 7 days in winter · Water thoroughly, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings · Check the soil moisture with your finger
- Temperature
- 18 °C ideal minimum · 24 °C ideal maximum · 15 °C tolerated minimum · 30 °C tolerated maximum
- Humidity
- high · 60% minimum
- Fertilization
- Balanced liquid fertilizer · spring–summer · 30 days
- Propagation
- division · moderate · Division is most effective during repotting in spring