Calathea zebrina, commonly known as zebra plant, is a gorgeous tropical plant known for its large green leaves with striking purple undersides. With proper care, the zebra plant can be a stunning addition to any indoor garden. Here is a detailed guide on how to grow and care for Calathea zebrina.
Light Requirements
- Zebra plants need bright, indirect light to thrive. Direct sunlight will scorch the leaves.
- Place the plant in an east or west facing window where it will get a few hours of gentle morning or afternoon sun.
- If you don’t have a good natural light source, provide ample artificial light from grow lights or fluorescent bulbs.
Watering and Humidity
- Water zebra plant when the top inch of soil is dry. Take care not to overwater.
- These plants like high humidity. Mist the leaves daily or place on a pebble tray.
- Consider using a humidifier during dry winter months to maintain the humidity above 50%.
Soil
- Use a rich, well-draining potting mix. Add perlite or pumice to improve drainage.
- Re-pot every 2 years in spring, moving the plant to a container one size larger.
- Make sure the pot has drainage holes at the bottom.
Temperature
- Zebra plants thrive in temperatures between 65°F to 80°F.
- Keep away from cold drafts from windows or doors.
- In winter, avoid allowing the temperature to dip below 60°F.
Fertilizer
- Feed monthly in spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted by half.
- Reduce fertilizer application in fall and winter.
- Flushing the soil every 3-4 months will prevent buildup of salts.
Pruning
- Prune off damaged, diseased, or dead leaves at the base of the stem.
- Remove spent leaves and flowers to encourage new growth.
- Cut off leggy growth to shape the plant.
Propagation
- Propagate zebra plant by division when re-potting larger plants.
- Take 3-4 inch sections with a few leaves and re-plant.
- You can also try rooting stem cuttings in water or moist potting mix.
Common Problems
Crispy brown edges on leaves – This is usually caused by dry air. Increase humidity levels around the plant.
Curled leaves – Low humidity is often the culprit. Mist leaves and use a humidifier.
Leaf spots/discoloration – Can be due to overwatering or bacterial/fungal disease. Allow soil to dry out between waterings.
Leggy growth – Insufficient light leads to weak leggy growth. Move plant closer to light source.
Drooping leaves – Check for under-watering. Water thoroughly when soil is partly dry.
Tips for Optimal Growth
- Wipe leaves regularly with damp cloth to keep them dust-free.
- Rotate plant occasionally to ensure even growth towards light source.
- Keep away from drafts and heating/cooling vents.
- Group with other tropical plants to increase ambient humidity.
- Avoid tap water which may have salts, chlorine. Use filtered or distilled water.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much light does a zebra plant need?
Zebra plants need bright, indirect light for 4-6 hours daily. Direct hot sunlight will scorch the leaves. Place in an east or west window. Supplement with grow lights if needed.
What is the best soil for a zebra plant?
Use a rich, well-draining potting mix amended with perlite or pumice to improve drainage. Soil should hold some moisture but not get soggy.
Why are the edges of zebra plant leaves turning brown?
Brown crispy edges are usually caused by low humidity. Try misting the leaves daily and placing the pot on a pebble tray filled with water.
How do I raise the humidity for my zebra plant?
Use a room humidifier, place on a pebble tray, or group with other plants to create a greenhouse effect. Mist the leaves daily for added moisture.
How often to water zebra plant?
Allow the soil to dry out between waterings, then water thoroughly until it runs from the drainage holes. Take care not to overwater zebra plants.
Why are the leaves of my zebra plant curling?
Curled leaves can be caused by low humidity, overwatering, or exposure to cold drafts. Increase humidity, allow soil to dry out before watering, and keep away from drafts.
How do I prune a leggy zebra plant?
Use pruners to cut off leggy growth just above leaf nodes to encourage bushier growth. Also remove any dead or damaged leaves and spent flowers.
Conclusion
With its decorative striped leaves in shades of green and purple, the zebra plant is a must have for indoor plant parents looking to add visual interest. Provide this tropical plant with warm temperatures, indirect light, consistent humidity, and well-draining soil, and it will reward you with vibrant foliage. Zebra plant is relatively easy to care for as long as you avoid temperature extremes and overwatering. Follow the tips in this guide for a healthy and lush Calathea zebrina.