Calathea ornata, also known as the pinstripe calathea, is a gorgeous tropical plant known for its striking pink stripes on large oval green leaves. This calathea makes an excellent houseplant and is not too difficult to care for if you provide it with the right conditions. Here is a complete guide on how to grow and care for calathea ornata.
Introduction to Calathea Ornata
Calathea ornata is native to the tropical forests of Brazil. It is an evergreen perennial that can grow quite large under the right conditions, up to 2 feet tall and wide. This calathea species has gained popularity as a houseplant due to its breathtaking foliage.
The most distinctive feature of calathea ornata is the pink pinstripes on the tops of the leaves. These striped markings are like brush strokes and give the plant a painted look. The undersides of the leaves also have a deep purple coloring. Large oval leaves can reach up to 18 inches long on mature plants.
In addition to its foliage, calathea ornata produces small white and purple flowers on occasion. However, it primarily grows for its dramatic leaves.
This calathea makes a wonderful addition to indoor plant collections. Its large striking leaves add vibrant color and tropical flair to any space. Read on to learn exactly how to care for and cultivate calathea ornata in your home.
Light Requirements
Calathea ornata thrives best in bright indirect sunlight. It should be placed in a spot near an east or west facing window where it will receive plenty of gentle sunlight throughout the day without getting any harsh direct sun.
Too little light will cause the leaves to lose their markings and vibrant colors. The plant needs bright light to maintain the pink pinstripes and deep purple undersides of the leaves.
However, too much direct sun will scorch and damage the foliage. Be sure to filter the sunlight through a sheer curtain to prevent leaf burn.
If you don’t have a good natural light source, you can supplement with artificial lighting such as fluorescent or LED grow lights. Place the lights close to the plant, about 12-18 inches above it, for 6-8 hours per day.
Rotate the plant occasionally so all sides receive even lighting exposure. Monitor the leaf color and move the calathea to brighter or dimmer conditions as needed.
Proper Watering Habits
Calathea ornata prefers moist well-draining soil but does not tolerate soggy conditions. Water thoroughly enough to saturate the entire root zone and allow the excess to drain out.
The top inch or two of soil should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings. Check by sticking your finger in the pot to gauge the moisture level. Water again once the potting mix becomes almost dry.
During the warmer and brighter months of spring and summer, more frequent watering will likely be required, perhaps every 5-7 days on average. Reduce watering to about once a week in fall and winter when growth slows down.
Always water in the morning to allow the foliage time to dry out over the day. Wet leaves at night can promote fungus and disease.
Filtered, room temperature water is best. Tap water containing salts, chlorine, or fluoride may accumulate and burn the leaf tips.
Make sure the pot has drainage holes and that any drained water is discarded from the saucer beneath. Do not let the roots sit submerged.
In addition to watering properly, calathea ornata appreciates regular misting and humid conditions. Misting the leaves every few days will increase humidity right around the plant.
You can also run a room humidifier nearby or place the pot on a pebble tray with water to evaporate moisture into the air. Ideal indoor humidity for this plant is 60-70%.
Soil Needs
An aerated, peat-based potting mix provides the ideal balance of moisture retention and drainage that calathea ornata requires. Look for a mix made for tropical houseplants.
You may also create your own mix using equal parts peat moss, perlite or pumice, and organic compost. The peat retains moisture while the perlite/pumice aerates the soil and compost provides nutrition.
When re-potting, choose a container with drainage holes that is 2-4 inches larger than the current pot. Calathea ornata has spreading roots but does not like to be over-potted. Keeping the roots snug will encourage new growth.
Re-pot every 1-2 years in fresh soil as the old mix breaks down. Carefully divide and loosen the root ball but minimize root disturbance which can set the plant back.
Fertilizer Needs
Like most indoor plants, calathea ornata benefits from monthly feedings during the growing season from spring through fall. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength.
Good options include fish emulsion or seaweed extract which provide a broad spectrum of major and minor nutrients. Avoid over-fertilizing which can burn the roots.
In winter when growth naturally slows, cut back on fertilizer to only every 6-8 weeks. Fertilizing too heavily in low light conditions can damage the plant.
Temperature Needs
Calathea ornata prefers warm temperatures between 70-80°F and cannot tolerate frost or freezing. Cooler temperatures may cause lower leaves to drop.
Try to keep the plant in the warmest rooms of your home. Move it away from drafty windows, vents, or doors leading outside.
Supplemental heating sources such as a nearby radiator or grow lights may be needed in colder climates. Just be sure to keep the heat source far enough to prevent leaf scorching.
Pruning and Grooming
To keep your calathea ornata looking its best, trim off any dead or dying leaves at the base of the stem. Leaves that are more than half brown typically won’t recover.
Snipping off spent leaves encourages new growth and prevents disease. Also prune any yellowing leaves which usually indicates overwatering.
As a tropical plant, calathea ornata does not need any special pruning or maintenance. Allow the leaves to grow freely in their natural spreading form for a bold, bushy appearance.
Wipe the large leaves periodically with a damp cloth to remove accumulated dust. Take care not to damage the delicate foliage when cleaning.
Propagation
You can propagate calathea ornata by dividing the plant when re-potting. Carefully separate a section with a few leaves and healthy roots still attached. Re-plant the divisions in small pots.
Keep the newly propagated plants warm and moist, protected under a clear plastic bag. Pot up the new plantlets after several weeks once established.
Calathea ornata can also be propagated by stem cuttings in water or soil. Take 3-4 inch cuttings in spring or summer. Remove lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder.
Place in water or moist potting mix and keep warm and humid until new roots and shoots emerge. Once rooted, pot up the new plants.
Common Problems
Here are some potential issues to watch for with calathea ornata:
- Dry, crispy leaf edges indicate low humidity or underwatering. Increase misting and water more frequently.
- Wilting or drooping leaves mean underwatering typically. Check soil and water if dry.
- Leaf spots, blight, or black mold is caused by overwatering. Allow soil to dry out between waterings.
- Brown leaf tips or margins often signify fluoride or salt buildup from tap water. Use filtered water.
- Yellowing leaves generally mean overwatering. Scale back on watering frequency and allow soil to dry out more between waterings.
- Loss of leaf markings or faded color means too little light. Move plant to a brighter location.
- Leaf curling and folding results from temperature extremes or low humidity. Keep the plant warmer and increase humidity.
FAQs About Growing Calathea Ornata
How long do calathea ornata plants live?
With proper care, calathea ornata can live for several years indoors, typically 5 years or more. Some have been known to thrive for a decade or longer.
Does calathea ornata bloom?
Yes, calathea ornata may bloom occasionally indoors. The small white and purple flower bracts are lovely but the plant is grown mainly for its ornate foliage.
Is calathea ornata toxic to pets?
Calathea ornata is considered non-toxic and safe to keep in homes with pets. However, cats and dogs may try nibbling on the leaves which could cause stomach upset. Keep the plant safely out of reach.
How do you revive a dying calathea ornata?
If your calathea ornata is struggling, first assess the growing conditions and make any needed improvements. Then give the plant a bit more water and warmth if soil is dry and temps are cool. Trim off dead leaves to encourage new growth.
Why are the leaves on my calathea ornata turning brown?
Brown spots or leaf edges typically indicate dry air or irregular watering. Increase humidity through misting and keep the soil evenly moist. Over-fertilization and tap water may also cause leaf burn.
Why is my calathea ornata losing its pink stripes?
When calathea ornata loses its pink pinstripes, it is often due to insufficient light. These tropicals need bright filtered sunlight to maintain their colorful variegation. Move the plant to a brighter location.
Conclusion
With its exotic pink-striped foliage, calathea ornata makes a fabulous indoor plant for brightening up any space. Provide this “pinstripe plant” with warm temperatures, humid air, and well-draining moist soil. Filtered light is essential for maintaining the striking variegated colors. Fertilize monthly and wipe leaves to keep it looking its best. Address any issues promptly such as crispy leaves or fading colors. With proper care, the gorgeous calathea ornata will thrive for many years as an indoor plant.
How to Grow and Care for Calathea Ornata
Growing and caring for the eye-catching calathea ornata brings the beauty of the tropics indoors. This ornamental houseplant is easy to maintain when given suitable conditions. Here is a comprehensive guide on successfully cultivating calathea ornata in your home.
Selecting a Healthy Plant
When shopping for a calathea ornata, choose a plant with lush green, undamaged foliage. Look for large glossy leaves with bright pink stripes and deep purple undersides. Avoid specimens with brown crispy edges, curled leaves, or faded coloring. Select a plant in a 6-8 inch nursery pot with a balanced shape. Make sure the pot feels weighty, indicating a good dense root system.
Choosing the Right Pot
Calathea ornata thrives in a roomy container that allows air to circulate around the roots. Pick a pot that is 2-4 inches wider than the current nursery pot. Shallow pots work well to showcase the gorgeous foliage. Make sure the container has drainage holes. Plastic and glazed ceramic pots provide more humidity than terracotta or wood.
Using Proper Potting Mix
These tropicals require light, porous soil that retains some moisture but also drains well. A commercial potting blend for houseplants is ideal. You can also make your own mix with equal parts peat moss, perlite, and potting compost. If re-potting a mature plant, loosen and divide the root ball before re-planting in fresh soil.
Giving the Right Amount of Water
Calathea ornata needs consistently moist soil but does not like soggy conditions. Water thoroughly whenever the top inch of soil becomes dry. More watering is needed in warmer months. Allow the pot to drain fully after watering and empty any excess water from the saucer. Misting between waterings increases humidity.
Providing Proper Light
Situate calathea ornata near an east or west window where it will receive plenty of indirect sunlight. A sheer curtain filters harsh light. Rotate the plant occasionally for even exposure. If light is low, supplement with grow lights 6-8 hours per day. Insufficient light causes the pink stripes to fade.
Giving Proper Amounts of Fertilizer
Feed calathea ornata monthly in spring and summer with a balanced houseplant fertilizer diluted to half strength. Fertilize every 6-8 weeks in fall and winter. Avoid over-fertilizing which can burn the roots. A fish emulsion or seaweed extract works well for these tropicals.
Maintaining Ideal Temperatures
Calathea ornata thrives in warm conditions between 70-80°F. Keep away from cold drafts from windows, doors, and vents. Move the plant to the warmest rooms during winter or use a space heater. Temperatures below 60°F may cause leaf damage.
Providing Sufficient Humidity
Calathea ornata appreciates 40-60% humidity. Use a room humidifier, mist regularly, and place the pot on a pebble tray. Central heating can dry the air, so group plants together to make their own little greenhouse. Keep humidity higher in warmer months.
Displaying Your Plant
Show off the bold, colorful leaves of calathea ornata by placing it on plant stands, shelves, or pedestals. The striped foliage makes a dramatic statement in entryways or as a focal point in living spaces. Avoid direct sunlight which will fade the leaf markings. Rotate the plant for even growth.
Pruning Properly
Remove dead or dying leaves at the base of the stem. Snipping off yellow leaves encourages new growth. Wipe dust from leaves periodically with a damp cloth to keep them looking their best. Avoid over-pruning these tropicals which grow naturally bushy.
Propagating New Plants
Propagate calathea ornata by dividing the rhizomes when re-potting. Separate sections with foliage still attached and re-plant in small pots. Keep warm and misted until established. You can also propagate from 3-4 inch stem cuttings in water or moist potting mix.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Dry crispy leaves – Increase humidity & water more often
- Wilting/drooping – Check for dry soil, water if needed
- Leaf spots – Reduce watering frequency, allow to dry out
- Brown leaf tips – Use filtered water, avoid tap water
- Faded color – Provide brighter filtered light
- Leaf curling – Keep temps warmer, increase humidity
Keeping Calathea Ornata Thriving
With the proper care, calathea ornata will enhance indoor spaces for years with its showy variegated foliage. Provide this tropical plant with warm temperatures, bright indirect light, frequent watering, and high humidity. Address issues promptly and propagate new plants to expand your collection. Follow these tips and enjoy the lush pink-striped beauty of calathea ornata in your home.
Frequently Asked Questions About Calathea Ornata
Calathea ornata, also called the pinstripe calathea, is loved for its striking pink-striped foliage. Here are answers to some commonly asked questions about growing and caring for this popular houseplant.
What are the ideal growing conditions for calathea ornata?
Calathea ornata thrives in indoor temperatures between 70-80°F, with 60-70% humidity. It needs bright, indirect light to maintain the leaf markings. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry. Use peaty, well-draining soil and avoid soggy conditions.
How do I increase humidity for my calathea ornata?
Mist the leaves several times a week or place the pot on a pebble tray filled with water. Use a room humidifier nearby. Group plants together to raise humidity around them. Avoid cold drafts and drying heating vents.
Why are the edges of my calathea ornata leaves turning brown?
Brown leaf edges typically indicate that the air is too dry. Increase humidity through misting, pebble trays, and humidifiers. Also make sure you are watering whenever the topsoil becomes slightly dry, about once a week on average.
What causes the leaves on a calathea ornata to curl?
Leaf curling is most often due to temperature stress, either from cold drafts or overheating. Keep the plant at a stable temperature between 70-80°F. Low humidity can also cause curling along with insufficient watering.
Why is my calathea ornata losing its pink striping?
Lack of the pink pinstripes on the leaves generally signifies that the plant is not getting enough bright, indirect light. Move it to a spot with ample filtered sunshine each day. Supplemental grow lights may be needed in winter or low light rooms.
Should I mist my calathea ornata?
Yes, misting is very beneficial for calathea ornata. Spraying water on the leaves and providing ambient humidity will help prevent brown edges and keep your plant looking lush. Be sure to let the leaves dry out a bit before night to prevent disease.
How often do I need to fertilize a calathea ornata?
Fertilize monthly in spring and summer with a balanced houseplant fertilizer diluted to half strength. In fall and winter, reduce feedings to every 6-8 weeks. Too much fertilizer can burn the roots and damage the plant, especially when grown in low light.
Is calathea ornata toxic to pets?
Calathea ornata is considered non-toxic to cats and dogs. However, the leaves can cause upset stomachs if chewed or ingested. It’s best to keep this plant out of reach of curious pets who may try nibbling on the foliage.
How do I propagate new calathea ornata plants?
Propagate by dividing the rhizomes when you re-pot a mature plant. You can also take 3-4 inch stem cuttings and root them in water or moist potting mix. Keep new plants warm, humid, and lightly misted until well established before potting up.
Conclusion
With its colorful striped foliage, the pinstripe calat