Calathea 'Ornata' - Elegant Pinstripe Prayer Plant

The Calathea 'Ornata' (Calathea 'Ornata'), often called the Peacock Plant or Zebra Plant, is a truly captivating species within a genus celebrated for its decorative leaves. Native to the tropical regions of South and Central America, Africa, and the West Indies, Calathea Plants are grown primarily for their beautiful, brightly colored, upright, oval leaves. The 'Ornata' variety is particularly striking; the top side of its leaves features elegant, thin stripes of pink or creamy white contrasting beautifully with the deep green, creating a mesmerizing pattern. As with many Calathea varieties, the underside has a pretty light purple-pinkish hue that also runs down the stems. This stunning contrast and the plant's unique ability to fold its leaves upwards at night (known as "prayer plant" movement) make it a truly decorative and dynamic pot plant for any indoor setting.

Important Note

Calathea 'Ornata' is generally considered non-toxic to pets and humans, making it a beautiful and safe choice for homes with curious cats, dogs, or children.

Key Features

• Striking Pinstripe Foliage: Features elongated, dark green leaves with elegant thin stripes of pink or white, and a distinct purple-pink underside.
• "Prayer Plant" Movement: Leaves fold up at night and unfurl in the morning, adding an engaging, dynamic element to your space.
• Tropical Elegance: Brings a touch of sophistication and exotic beauty, with brightly colored, upright, oval leaves.
• Air-Purifying Qualities: Contributes to a healthier indoor environment by aiding in air purification.
• Pet-Friendly: A safe option for households with pets and children.

Care Tips

• Light: Prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves and fade their vibrant colors. Too little light can diminish the striping.
• Water: Keep the soil consistently moist but never soggy. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels slightly dry. Use distilled, rainwater, or filtered water if possible, as Calatheas are sensitive to chemicals in tap water.
• Humidity: Requires high humidity to thrive. Mist regularly, use a pebble tray, or place it near a humidifier. Low humidity can lead to crispy leaf edges or browning tips.
• Soil: Use a well-draining, moisture-retentive potting mix rich in organic matter. A blend designed for moisture-loving tropical plants works well.
• Feeding: Fertilize every 2-4 weeks during the spring and summer growing seasons with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Reduce or stop feeding in fall and winter.
• Temperature: Prefers warm, consistent temperatures between 18-24°C (65-75°F). Protect from cold drafts and sudden temperature drops.
• Pruning: Remove any yellow or browning leaves at the base to maintain plant health and appearance.