Calathea Meili 6cm H15cm

Description

Calathea Meili is an elegant variety of Calathea, recognized for its stunning, broad leaves with deep green tones and vibrant purple undersides. This unique pattern, combined with the plant’s relatively compact size, makes it a standout addition to any indoor space. Native to the tropical rainforests of South America, Calathea Meili thrives in humidity and low-light conditions, making it a perfect choice for homes and offices with higher moisture levels.

• Full Botanical Name: Calathea Meili
• Common Names: Meili Calathea
• Country and/or Region of Origin: Native to South America, particularly the Amazon Rainforest
• Growing Conditions in Native Habitat: Grows in shaded, humid environments of tropical rainforests with organic-rich, well-draining soil
• Care Guide:
• Light: Prefers low to bright, indirect light. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the delicate leaves, so it’s best to provide filtered light or partial shade.
• Ideal Room: Ideal for bathrooms, living rooms, or offices with indirect light and good humidity. It thrives in areas with higher moisture levels.
• Feeding: Fertilize once every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer. Reduce feeding during the fall and winter months when the plant is dormant.
• Humidity: Prefers high humidity. Keep it in a humid room, use a humidifier, or place it on a humidity tray to maintain the moisture levels required for optimal growth.
• Ideal Temperature: Best kept between 65°F and 80°F (18°C to 27°C). Protect from cold temperatures below 50°F (10°C), as it is sensitive to frost.
• Watering: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Ensure the pot has good drainage to prevent water retention and root rot.
• Pet/Child Safe: Non-toxic to pets and children, making it a safe addition to homes with animals and young children.
• Soil Type: Use a well-draining, organic-rich potting mix. A mix designed for tropical plants or Calatheas will work well, providing the right balance of moisture retention and drainage.
• Propagation: Propagate by division. When repotting, carefully divide the plant into smaller sections, ensuring each division has roots and a healthy portion of the plant.
• Eventual Height and Spread: Typically grows up to 1-2 feet (30-60 cm) tall and wide, forming a compact, bushy appearance with large, decorative leaves.
• Growth Rate: Moderate-growing. It can take time to establish, but once settled, it will produce stunning new leaves regularly.
• Pests and Treatment: Susceptible to pests such as aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil to keep the plant healthy and pest-free.
• Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot with good drainage and fresh, well-draining soil to encourage healthy root growth.
• Pruning: Prune dead or yellowing leaves regularly to maintain the plant’s appearance. Pruning also helps control the size and shape of the plant, encouraging fresh growth.
• Air Purification: Like other tropical plants, Calathea Meili contributes to improving indoor air quality by filtering out toxins such as formaldehyde, improving the atmosphere in your home or office.
• Folklore: Calatheas are often regarded as symbols of beauty and grace. The bold, contrasting colors of Calathea Meili are thought to represent balance and harmony, making it a perfect plant to bring positive energy and tranquility to your space.