Calathea crotalifera

What is Calathea crotalifera?

Calathea crotalifera is an ornamental foliage plant from the Marantaceae family. It is native to Central and South America and the Caribbean islands, where it grows in humid forests. It is also known as the rattle plant or rattle shaker because its inflorescences resemble rattles. The plant has large, upright leaves that are slightly purple on the underside. The leaves can grow up to 30 cm long and 15 cm wide. The plant can reach a height of 30 to 50 cm.

Calathea crotalifera is not only an attractive houseplant, but also a useful one. It can purify the air and improve the indoor climate by filtering pollutants and producing oxygen. It is also non-toxic to dogs and other pets, so you don't have to worry if your four-legged friend nibbles on it.

How to care for Calathea crotalifera?

Calathea crotalifera is a relatively undemanding houseplant, but it does need to fulfill a few basic conditions to stay healthy and beautiful. Here are some tips for caring for it:

• Location: the plant likes light, but not direct sunlight. A place by a window facing east or west is ideal. Avoid draughts and excessive temperature fluctuations.
• Substrate: The plant needs a humus-rich and well-drained potting soil that provides it with sufficient nutrients. You can use a special soil for indoor plants or for orchids. Make sure that the substrate is not too wet or too dry.
• Watering: The plant needs regular and even watering, especially during the growth phase from spring to fall. It is best to use low-lime water, for example rainwater or stagnant tap water. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings, but avoid waterlogging.
• Fertilize: The plant will appreciate weekly fertilization with a liquid fertilizer for houseplants or orchids at half the concentration. In winter, you can reduce or stop fertilizing altogether.
• Humidity: The plant likes a high humidity of around 60 percent. To achieve this, you can regularly spray the plant with lukewarm water or place it on a bowl of damp gravel. However, avoid direct contact between the pot and the water.
• Repotting: The plant should be repotted in a larger pot every two to three years in spring. You can also check the roots and remove any damaged or rotten parts.
• Pruning: The plant does not need regular pruning. However, you can remove wilted or damaged leaves and flowers to keep the plant healthy.
• Propagation: The easiest way to propagate the plant is by division. When repotting, you can carefully divide the plant into several parts, each with at least one shoot and some roots. Plant the parts in separate pots and water them well. Keep the soil moist, but not wet, until the plants have formed new roots.