Description
- Common names:
- Calathea Orbifolia, Peacock Plant, Zebra Plant, Round-Leaf Calathea, Prayer Plant, Planta de Pavo Real, Planta Cebra
- Botanical name:
- Calathea orbifolia, Goeppertia orbifolia
- Description:
- A stunning tropical houseplant featuring large, round leaves with distinctive pale silver-green stripes. Known for its air-purifying qualities and elegant, architectural foliage.
Features
- Pet & Babies safety:
- Non-Toxic & Pet-Friendly
- Rarity:
- Uncommon Find
- Form factor:
- Upright Bush, Variegated Leaves, Architectural, Rosette
- Air Purifier:
- Good Air Purifier (7/10)
- Origin:
- Brazil
- Aesthetic advantages:
- Living Room, Bedroom, Bathroom, Modern, Bohemian, Scandinavian, Bookshelf, Low Table Centerpiece
Care Guide
Care level:
Intermediate+
This plant requires consistent care with attention to humidity and watering routines. It can be sensitive to water quality and environmental changes, making it better suited for those with some plant experience.
Light:
Medium / Indirect Light+
Place near an east or north-facing window where it receives bright, filtered light but no direct sun. Direct sunlight will fade the beautiful stripes and scorch the leaves, while too little light will slow growth.
Water:
Keep Soil Moist+
Water when the top inch of soil feels slightly dry to the touch, keeping the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. Use filtered or distilled water when possible, as Calatheas are sensitive to chlorine and fluoride.
Humidity:
Prefers High Humidity+
Thrives in humidity levels above 60%, which mimics its native tropical rainforest environment. Increase humidity by placing on a pebble tray, grouping with other plants, or using a humidifier to prevent brown leaf edges.
Temperature:
Prefers Warmth+
Thrives in 18-27°C / 65-80°F with consistent warmth year-round. Avoid cold drafts, sudden temperature drops below 15°C / 60°F, and placement near heating or air conditioning vents.
Hardiness zones:
Zones 10-12+
Hardy outdoors year-round only in USDA Zones 10-12 where temperatures remain consistently warm. In cooler zones, grow as an indoor houseplant or move outdoors to a shaded patio only during warm summer months.
Fertilizing:
Feed Monthly+
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength once per month during the growing season (spring through summer). Reduce feeding in fall and winter when growth naturally slows.
Repotting:
Repot Every 2-3 Years+
Repot every 2-3 years in spring when roots begin to emerge from drainage holes or growth slows significantly. Use a well-draining, peat-based potting mix and only increase pot size by 1-2 inches.
Cleaning:
Wipe Leaves Regularly+
Gently wipe the large leaves weekly with a soft, damp cloth to remove dust and maintain the plant's ability to photosynthesize efficiently. This also helps showcase the beautiful silver-green striping and keeps foliage looking vibrant.
Propagation:
Division+
Best propagated by division during repotting in spring. Carefully separate the root ball into sections, ensuring each division has healthy roots and several leaves, then pot individually in fresh soil.