Calathea Warscewiczii 12cm H35cm

Description

Calathea Warscewiczii, also known as the “Cobra Plant,” is a stunning ornamental plant native to the tropical rainforests of South America. It is prized for its large, deep green, oval-shaped leaves with striking purple and silver markings on the underside. The leaves have a unique texture, resembling the scales of a cobra, which gives this plant its distinctive look. This tropical beauty thrives in humid, shaded environments and is an excellent addition to any plant enthusiast’s collection.

• Full Botanical Name: Calathea Warscewiczii
• Common Names: Cobra Plant, Warscewiczii Calathea
• Country and/or Region of Origin: Native to the tropical rainforests of South America, particularly Colombia and Brazil
• Growing Conditions in Native Habitat: Grows in the shaded forest floor of tropical rainforests, where it thrives in high humidity and organic-rich, well-draining soil
• Care Guide:
• Light: Prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate some lower light levels. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves and diminish their vibrant color.
• Ideal Room: Ideal for indoor spaces with plenty of indirect light, such as living rooms, kitchens, or bathrooms. It thrives in areas with higher humidity levels.
• Feeding: Fertilize every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer. Reduce feeding in 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 optimal moisture levels for healthy 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: Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the plant.
• Pet/Child Safe: Non-toxic to pets and children, making it a safe addition to homes with animals or young children.
• Soil Type: Use a well-draining, organic-rich potting mix. A mix designed for tropical plants or aroids will provide the right balance of moisture retention and drainage.
• Propagation: Propagate by division. When repotting, carefully divide the plant into smaller sections, making sure each section has roots and a healthy portion of the plant to encourage growth.
• Eventual Height and Spread: Typically grows up to 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) tall, with a spread of up to 2 feet (60 cm), forming a bushy, dense clump of foliage.
• Growth Rate: Slow-growing. It may take some time to establish, but once it is settled in, it will produce new leaves steadily over time.
• Pests and Treatment: Susceptible to pests such as aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil to maintain a healthy plant.
• Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Use 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 new growth.
• Air Purification: Like other tropical plants, Calathea Warscewiczii contributes to improving indoor air quality by filtering out toxins such as formaldehyde, improving the atmosphere in your home.
• Folklore: Calatheas are often associated with protection and tranquility. They are considered symbols of peace and calm, making them a great addition to spaces where you want to create a soothing environment.