Calathea Orbifolia
Scientific name: Calathea orbifolia
☘️ Toxicity: Safe for cats
☀️ Ideal light: Bright indirect light or soft shade
💧 Watering: Frequent; keep soil consistently moist but not soggy
The Calathea Orbifolia is a tropical plant admired for its broad, rounded leaves with silver-green stripes that give it a sophisticated, exotic appearance. It’s an excellent indoor plant for anyone seeking both beauty and safety for cats.
Essential care
- Light: Prefers diffused or filtered light; avoid direct sun which can scorch leaves.
- Water: Keep soil evenly moist; use filtered or dechlorinated water when possible.
- Humidity: Loves high humidity; mist regularly or use a humidifier nearby.
- Substrate: Light and well-draining (mix of peat, perlite, and pine bark works best).
- Temperature: Thrives between 18–26 °C (64–79 °F); avoid drafts or sudden temperature changes.
Common problems
- Dry tips: Usually caused by low humidity or chlorinated water.
- Curling leaves: Sign of dryness or underwatering.
- Yellow leaves: Overwatering or poor drainage.
Propagation
- Division: The most effective method, done during repotting in spring.
- Repotting: Every 2 years to refresh the substrate and stimulate growth.
Cat safety
- Classification: Non-toxic to cats.
- Best practice: Even though safe, keep it out of reach to avoid damage to delicate leaves.
💡 Calatheas are known as “prayer plants” because their leaves move gently throughout the day in response to light changes.
Quick checklist
- ☀️ Bright indirect or filtered light
- 💧 Consistently moist soil
- 🌫️ High humidity
- 🌡️ Stable temperature (18–26 °C / 64–79 °F)
- 🐾 Safe for cats