Calathea roseopicta

Description

Calathea roseopicta, also known as the Rose Painted Calathea, is a stunning houseplant that boasts vibrant pink and green leaves. With its air-purifying abilities, this plant not only adds beauty to your space, but also helps to improve air quality. Perfect for any plant lover or those looking to add a touch of color to their home.

Full Botanical Name:
Calathea roseopicta

Common Names:
Rose-Painted Calathea, Peacock Plant, Prayer Plant

Country and/or Region of Origin:
Native to the tropical rainforests of Brazil in South America.

Growing Conditions in Native Habitat:
Calathea roseopicta thrives in the understory of tropical rainforests where it grows in warm, humid conditions with filtered light through the dense canopy above.

Care Information:

• Light:
  Prefers bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can cause the leaves to fade and develop brown spots. It can also tolerate lower light conditions but may lose some of its vibrant colors.
• Ideal Room:
  Best suited for rooms with high humidity like bathrooms or kitchens. It can also do well in living rooms or bedrooms with a humidifier or regular misting.
• Feeding:
  Feed every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer. Reduce feeding in the fall and winter when growth slows.
• Humidity:
  Requires high humidity levels, ideally above 60-70%. Use a humidifier, mist the plant regularly, or place it on a pebble tray with water to maintain humidity.
• Ideal Temperature:
  Thrives in temperatures between 65°F and 80°F (18°C to 27°C). Avoid temperatures below 60°F (15°C) and protect from cold drafts.
• Watering:
  Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry. Calathea prefers evenly moist soil but is sensitive to overwatering, which can cause root rot. Use filtered or distilled water if possible, as Calathea is sensitive to fluoride and chlorine in tap water.
• Pet/Child Safe:
  Yes, Calathea roseopicta is non-toxic to pets and humans, making it a safe choice for households with children and animals.
• Soil:
  Prefers a well-draining, peat-based potting mix. A mix that includes peat, perlite, and pine bark works well, providing both moisture retention and good drainage.
• Propagation:
  Propagate by division during the growing season, preferably in spring. Carefully separate the root clumps, ensuring each division has a few healthy roots and leaves.
• Eventual Height and Spread:
  Typically grows to about 12-24 inches (30-60 cm) in height and spreads to about 12-18 inches (30-45 cm).
• Growth Rate:
  Moderate growth rate. The plant will produce new leaves regularly under optimal conditions, but growth may slow in lower light or during cooler months.
• Pests and Treatment:
  Susceptible to pests like spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. Regular inspection and treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil can help manage infestations.
• Repotting:
  Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Spring is the best time for repotting. Use fresh potting mix to support healthy growth.
• Pruning:
  Minimal pruning is needed. Remove any yellowing or damaged leaves to maintain the plant’s health and appearance. Regularly trimming spent leaves helps keep the plant looking vibrant.
• Folk Law:
  Calathea is often associated with new beginnings due to its “prayer plant” habit of folding its leaves at night and reopening them in the morning. The beautiful patterns on its leaves are also seen as symbols of beauty and elegance in various cultures.