If you are a lover of indoor plants and are looking for a striking species that is easy to integrate into your home, Calathea Lanceolata It's a great candidate. Its elongated leaves, spectacular green tones, and ability to adapt to different spaces make it an increasingly valued plant in Spanish homes. Although it's sometimes considered a demanding, knowing all its care well will allow you to enjoy its beauty all year round.
In this article you will discover all about Calathea Lanceolata or Insignis: from its main characteristics to the step-by-step process to care for, propagate and show off its always healthy leaves, with real advice and solutions to the most common problems. If you want your tree to look spectacular and not be discouraged by drooping leaves or dry edges, keep reading because here you'll find much more than just basic care.
Characteristics of Calathea Lanceolata
La Calathea Lanceolata (also known as Calathea Insignis) is a plant native to the tropical rainforests of South America, especially from Brazil, Peru and Ecuador. Its long, narrow leaves are wavy at the edges, have a pattern with deep green spots on a lighter background, while the reverse is a striking maroon color. Its upright bearing and medium size (It can reach 40 to 70 cm) makes it very attractive and perfect for interiors.
We can't forget one of its funniest features: the leaves.they dance«. This is due to nyctinasty, a phenomenon by which the plant raises and lowers its leaves throughout the day and night to conserve moisture and seek light.
Furthermore, the Calathea Lanceolata It belongs to the Marantaceae family, and although its flowers are small and inconspicuous indoors, its spectacular foliage is its main attraction. It also filters the air, helping to maintain a cleaner environment in your home.
Ideal light and location
For Calathea Lanceolata to thrive, it is essential to choose its location appropriately. It needs abundant light, but never direct sunlight.Excessive sun exposure can burn and discolor the leaves, while a lack of light causes the leaves to look duller and slow growth.
Place it near a window with a sheer curtain or in a brightly lit area, always protecting it from direct sunlight. In less brightly lit rooms, its growth will be slower, but it will survive.
It's also important to avoid sudden changes in temperature and drafts, as Calathea is sensitive and can become stressed, which quickly affects the health of its leaves.
Temperature and humidity: key conditions
La Calathea Lanceolata It is a tropical plant that prefers constant temperatures between 18°C and 24°C. It tolerates heat if the humidity is high, but suffers if the temperature drops below 15°C. It is advisable to avoid exposing it to intense heat sources, such as radiators, or to cold areas near windows or drafts.
La humidity It's essential to keep its leaves radiant. Ideally, humidity should be above 50%, although if it can reach 60-70%, even better. A simple trick is to place it on a saucer with stones and water (without the base of the pot touching the water), use humidifiers, or group several plants together to create a humid microclimate.
It's important to avoid spraying water directly on the leaves, as this can promote fungus. In dry environments, prioritize increasing humidity through evaporation at the base or in the room.
How to water Calathea Lanceolata correctly
Watering is one of the most delicate tasks in its care. Calathea Lanceolata requires a slightly moist substrate, never waterlogged.Excess water can rot the roots, and dryness produces brown, crispy leaves.
Watering is usually done every 4-7 days in summer and every 7-10 days in winter, adjusting to the temperature and humidity of your home. Always monitor the substrate: water when the top layer (two or three centimeters) begins to dry out, but not completely.
Very important: Use water without chlorine and low in mineral salts, such as filtered, distilled, or rainwater. Calathea is very sensitive to chemical residues in tap water. If you use tap water, let it sit for 24 hours to allow the chlorine to disappear.
Type of substrate and fertilizer for healthy growth
El The ideal substrate is spongy, rich in organic matter and very draining.The perfect mix includes indoor plant soil, perlite, worm castings, and pine bark or coconut fiber to improve aeration. The pot should have good drainage to prevent waterlogging.
During spring and summer, fertilize every 3-4 weeks With a liquid fertilizer specifically for green plants, at half the recommended dose. You can also use controlled-release solid fertilizers and reinforce them with worm castings or amino acids once a month.
Avoid overfeeding, especially in fall and winter, and never fertilize when the soil is dry to avoid burning the roots. If the leaves are turning brown at the edges, check the frequency and quality of your fertilization.
Pruning, transplanting and cleaning leaves
La Calathea Lanceolata It doesn't require frequent pruning. Simply remove dry or yellow leaves from the base, cutting close to the substrate with clean scissors. This prevents the plant from wasting energy unnecessarily and prevents pests.
El transplant This is usually done every two years or when the roots fill the pot. Take advantage of spring to move it to a slightly larger pot, using the appropriate substrate.
To keep the leaves clean and healthy, wipe them periodically with a damp cloth to remove dust, avoiding polishing products that can clog the pores. This will help the plant photosynthesize better and look more beautiful.
Propagation of Calathea Lanceolata step by step
La propagation more effective is through rhizome division, which consists of separating the root sections that originate new shoots.
- The ideal time is in spring or summer, when the plant is growing.
- Remove the plant from the pot and remove excess substrate from the roots.
- Look for rhizomes and carefully separate any that have leaves and roots. You can use sterilized scissors or do it by hand, taking care not to damage the roots.
- Plant each division in a new pot, press the soil down, and water gently.
- Keep the plant in a humid environment with indirect light for the first few weeks.
New plants may look stunted at first, but if you maintain the humidity and temperature, they will soon adapt and grow vigorously.
Main problems, pests and diseases
As a tropical plant, the Calathea Lanceolata It can be affected by environmental changes and pests, but most have easy solutions:
- Brown leaves or dry edges: Usually due to low humidity, excess fertilizer, or water with too many minerals.
- Soft leaves or leaves with dark spots: These indicate overwatering or roots damaged by rot. Remove and discard rotten roots and change to a more well-draining substrate.
- Common pests: thrips, spider mites, and mealybugs. These insects are removed with potassium soap or a cloth soaked in alcohol. Keep the plant clean and inspected.
- Uneven spots: It could be fungi; use a systemic antifungal and check the substrate.
The key to preventing problems is maintaining a balanced environment in terms of light, humidity, and watering. For specific symptoms, consult a specialist or visit a specialized community.
Where to buy Calathea Lanceolata?
Nowadays, it is easy to acquire Calathea Lanceolata in specialized online nurseries, gardening platforms, and large physical stores. The price varies between €5 and €30, depending on the size and format.
Before purchasing, check that the plant is vigorous, with good-colored leaves and no visible pests or stains. When you get it home, give it time to acclimate, and don't worry if it takes a while to grow; this is normal during its adaptation period.
Extra tips to keep your Calathea looking spectacular
To keep your Calathea in optimal condition, consider these tips:
- Clean the leaves regularly to eliminate dust and promote photosynthesis.
- To increase humidity, use saucers with stones and water or group several plants together.
- Avoid spraying directly the leaves, unless the environment is very dry. It is better to humidify the room.
- Do not place it near radiators or air conditioning to avoid drying out the environment.
- Rotate the pot occasionally to ensure all foliage grows evenly.
- If the new leaves are very small, check the nutrition and the amount of light it receives.
Enjoy watching the movement of its leaves and adapt its care according to the changing seasons. Calathea Lanceolata is a grateful plant that adds an exotic and relaxing touch to any space.
