Calathea Beauty Star - Calathea , in 6" pot, Prayer Plant

You will receive one Calathea Beauty Star in a 6" pot, similar to the picture.

The Calathea Beauty Star is a stunning indoor plant prized for its glossy, patterned leaves, which feature green and white markings and purple undersides. This low-maintenance plant thrives in bright, indirect light and high humidity, making it a beautiful addition to any indoor garden.

Light Requirements

• Bright, Indirect Light: Prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves and fade their colors.
• Low Light Tolerance: Can tolerate low light but may grow slowly and lose some vibrancy. Avoid direct midday sun.
• Ideal Placement: A north or east-facing window is ideal. If in a darker room, consider supplementing with grow lights.

Watering

• Keep the Soil Moist: Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry. Calatheas like moisture but dislike soggy conditions.
• Water Quality: Calatheas are sensitive to chlorine and fluoride, so use filtered water, rainwater, or let tap water sit overnight.
• Avoid Overwatering: Ensure proper drainage to prevent root rot. Empty excess water from the saucer after watering.

Temperature

• Warm, Humid Conditions: Prefers temperatures between 65°F and 80°F (18°C to 27°C). Protect from drafts and cold windows.
• Avoid Temperature Fluctuations: Sudden temperature changes or cold drafts can cause leaf stress.

Humidity

• High Humidity: Ideal humidity is 50% or higher. If your home is dry, increase humidity by:
  • Using a humidifier.
  • Grouping plants together.
  • Placing the plant on a shallow tray with pebbles (ensuring the base isn’t sitting in water).
• Misting: Mist leaves occasionally but avoid over-wetting them to prevent fungal issues.

Soil

• Well-Draining, Moisture-Retentive Soil: Use a light, well-draining mix that retains moisture without becoming soggy. A mix for tropical plants works well.
• Soil Mix Recommendation: A good mix includes:
  • Peat moss for moisture retention.
  • Perlite for drainage.
  • Coconut coir or pine bark for aeration.

Fertilizing

• During Active Growth: Fertilize with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) every 4-6 weeks during spring and summer.
• Reduced Feeding in Fall/Winter: Reduce feeding when the plant is dormant in the colder months.
• Organic Options: Organic fertilizers, such as fish emulsion or worm castings, are also effective.

Pruning and Maintenance

• Remove Dead or Yellowing Leaves: Trim dead or damaged leaves to maintain a neat appearance.
• Clean the Leaves: Dust can block sunlight, so gently wipe leaves with a damp cloth every couple of weeks.
• Trim Brown Tips: If the leaf tips turn brown, trim them with sharp scissors to maintain a healthy look.

Repotting

• Repot Every 1-2 Years: Repot when the plant outgrows its pot or every 1-2 years. Choose a pot 1-2 inches larger than the current one.
• Best Time to Repot: Spring or early summer is the best time to repot.
• Root Pruning: Trim any circling roots when repotting to encourage new growth.

Pests and Problems

• Common Pests: While pest-resistant, Calatheas can attract:

  • Spider mites (webbing or speckled leaves).
  • Mealybugs (cotton-like spots).
  • Aphids (sticky residue or distorted leaves). Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

• Common Issues:

  • Yellowing Leaves: Caused by overwatering, underwatering, or low humidity. Adjust care accordingly.
  • Brown Leaf Tips: Often due to low humidity or inconsistent watering. Increase humidity and ensure even watering.
  • Curling/Wilting Leaves: Caused by cold temperatures or dry soil. Avoid placing the plant near drafts or heaters.

Toxicity

• Non-Toxic to Pets: Calathea Beauty Star is safe for pets, making it a great choice for homes with cats or dogs.