Calathea Roseopicta Prayer Plant

Calathea Roseopicta Plant

The Calathea Roseopicta, aka rose-painted calathea is native to the northwestern region of Brazil. This species gets its common name from the splashes of pink that seem to be painted along the veins of its leaves and the eye-catching hue of the underside of its leaves which is a vibrant and rosy magenta. They look quite similar to the Calatha Medallion as well.

Like many other calathea plants, the rose-painted calathea is not fussy to care for. Provide it with average indoor temperatures, moderate humidity, and bright, indirect sunlight, and you should have a very happy houseplant.

Calathea’s are truly a plant which appeal to all with their gorgeous patterning and coloration. The Ornata is a fairly easy variety to care for, and is well-suited to most homes and growers.

Light

Calathea’s thrive in medium to bright indirect light. As with all types of Calathea, avoid lighting extremes, such as direct sun and dark corners. Direct sunlight can burn these plants, causing Calathea’s vibrant color to fade. Calathea’s in the wild are found growing on the floors of tropical rainforests. This environment can be mimicked in the home by placing the plant in a shaded area, or a spot which receives medium to bright indirect light.

Water and Soil

Calathea’s like to be kept evenly moist. These plants do not like their soil to dry out, and like most all plants, can experience root rot if their soil remains too wet or soggy. Calathea Ornata should be watered once the top most layer of soil becomes dry. Amending a standard well-draining potting soil with peat moss or coco coir will help to keep your plants roots evenly moist, while the addition of perlite will ensure that proper drainage and root aeration is provided.

Temperature and Humidity

This plant prefers room temperatures between 65 degrees F and 75 degrees F. Temperatures shouldn’t drop below 60 degrees as this could damage the foliage. Cold, drafty areas should be avoided. Calathea Ornata prefers moderate to high humidity levels. If your home is on the drier side, misting your Calathea a few times a week will provide humidity. Calathea’s tend to be happier and healthier in areas with higher humidity, so if you have a bathroom or kitchen with bright to medium indirect light, this may be the perfect spot for your Calathea.