CALATHEA LANCIFOLIA
One of the easier options in the notoriously tricky Calathea family, their interesting leaf shape and stunning leaf patterns make them a good starter plant for anyone wanting to try out Calathea's. Also known as the Rattlesnake Calathea.
WATER
Lancifolia like consistently moist soil without being water logged, little and often is the best way to do this. Water until it just starts to trickle out of the holes at the bottom and ensure there is no more left to drain before placing it back in it's cache pot.
LIGHT
Medium to bright indirect light are perfect for Calathea Lancifolia. Direct light onto the leaves will burn them.
FERTILISING
Feed once a month with diluted houseplant fertiliser during the Spring and Summer.
SOIL
Calathea like a soil that drains well so that the delicate roots don't become too waterlogged but one that also retains moisture to mimic the damp rainforest floor conditions that they are native to. Visit our soil bar for coco coir and vermiculite to add to a standard soil mix.
TEMPERATURE
Keep away from open winter windows and cold draughts, similarly as they are humidity lovers don't let them sit too close to radiators.
HUMIDITY
All Calathea love humidity and the Lancifolia are no exception. Use a humidifier or a pebble tray to achieve this. Grouping plants together also helps with increasing humidity.
TOXICITY
Calathea are considered non toxic to humans and animals.
General Watering Tips
Place your plant, still in its plastic nursery pot, inside the decorative pot you've chosen. This setup allows the plant to enjoy the drainage and airflow provided by the nursery pot's holes, which are beneficial for root health.
When it’s time to water, you have two options:
1. Top Watering: Take the plant, nursery pot and all, out of the decorative pot and water it over a sink. Allow the water to drain completely before placing it back in the decorative pot to prevent water build up.
2. Bottom Watering: Place the nursery pot in a shallow dish of water and let the plant absorb moisture from the bottom. This method encourages the roots to grow downward and reduces the risk of overwatering.
Both methods help keep your plant healthy by promoting good drainage and root aeration.