Say a little prayer
If you are looking for an unusual houseplant, the Calathea orbifolia is a great option (a.k.a. round calathea, orbifolia prayer plant, or purple passion plant). It’s native to Brazil and it has eye-catching round leaves that have green tops and purple undersides. The leaves are also decorated with pale green or white stripes, making it stand out in any room. Furthermore, this plant is known for its ability to move its leaves in response to light, a process known as “nyctinasty.” If you’re interested in learning more about growing Calathea orbifolia indoors, read on!
Maranta leuconeura vs. Calathea Orbifolia
Maranta leuconeura and Calathea orbifolia are both species of flowering plants in the family Marantaceae. Both plants are native to tropical regions of South America and are grown as houseplants for their attractive, ornamental leaves and both are commonly called prayer plants.
One key difference between the two is the appearance of their leaves. Maranta leuconeura, also known as the prayer plant, has leaves with a distinctive green and white mottled pattern. Calathea orbifolia, on the other hand, has large, oval-shaped leaves with a dark green top and a purplish-black underside.
Both plants are known for their ability to move their leaves in response to changes in light levels. Maranta leuconeura raises and lowers its leaves, giving the appearance that they are folding and unfolding in prayer. Calathea orbifolia, on the other hand, has leaves that move horizontally, following the sun as it moves across the sky.
Environment & Care Requirements
Calathea orbifolia is generally not considered to be a hardy plant and is sensitive to frost and cold temperatures. It is best suited to indoor or greenhouse environments, where it can be protected from extreme weather conditions. In areas with warm, humid climates, Calathea orbifolia may be grown outdoors as a seasonal plant. However, it will need to be brought indoors or protected during the winter months to prevent frost damage.
Calathea orbifolia prefers warm temperatures (around 70°F) and high humidity levels. It should be grown in well-draining soil and watered regularly but not too frequently. The plant should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season (spring to fall) with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Additionally, it’s important to protect the plant from direct sunlight as too much direct light can scorch the leaves. Place your Calathea orbifolia near an east or north facing window for best results.
Pruning & Propagation
Calathea orbifolia does not require pruning unless the plant becomes too tall or leggy. If this is the case, simply trim off any stems that are longer than necessary. To propagate your Calathea orbifolia, you can use stem cuttings or divide up root clumps into smaller divisions and replant them in separate pots. This is a great way to increase your collection of this unique houseplant!
Common Problems & Solutions
Common problems that can affect Calathea orbifolia and how to fix them:
- Yellowing leaves: This can be a sign of over-watering or underwatering, or a lack of nutrients. Make sure you are watering the plant appropriately and fertilize it regularly with a balanced plant food.
- Brown or crispy leaf edges: This can be caused by low humidity or dry air. Try misting the leaves regularly or using a humidifier to increase the humidity around the plant.
- Curling or wilting leaves: This can be caused by too much direct sunlight or heat. Make sure the plant is not placed in a location where it will receive direct sunlight, and avoid exposing it to drafts or hot air.
- Pest infestations: Calathea orbifolia can be prone to pests such as spider mites and mealybugs. To control these pests, you can try using a natural insecticide or removing the pests by hand.
- Slow growth: This can be caused by a lack of nutrients or sunlight. Make sure the plant is getting enough sunlight and fertilize it regularly with a balanced plant food.
The most common problem with Calathea orbifolia is leaf browning due to either overwatering or underwatering the plant. Make sure you water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to touch; if you’re unsure whether or not it needs watering, poke your finger into the soil first before adding any water. Additionally, yellowing of lower leaves may indicate excessive heat exposure; if this happens, move your plant away from direct sunlight immediately. Finally, grayish spots on leaves are usually caused by pests such as spider mites; if you notice these spots appearing on your plant’s leaves, treat them with insecticidal soap or neem oil as soon as possible before they spread further throughout the foliage.
Calathea orbifolia makes an excellent houseplant for gardeners who want something different and unusual, not to mention fascinating! Its striking round leaves make it stand out from other plants and its ability to move its leaves in response to light adds an extra layer of interest and intrigue. Although it requires slightly higher levels of care than some other houseplants due to its need for warm temperatures and high humidity levels, providing these conditions will ensure that your Calathea orbifolia will remain healthy and vibrant for years to come.
