Calathea is one of the most appreciated indoor plants thanks to its colorful leaves and its ability to move, as they fold up during the night and open at dawn. However, its flowering remains a mystery to many gardening lovers, as it is not so common for it to bloom indoors.
Let's explore in depth what kind of flowers Calathea can produce, what are the ideal conditions to stimulate its growth, and what are the most important factors to consider when it comes to flowers. flowering and how to take care of it so that it stays healthy and vibrant In your home.
General characteristics of Calathea
La Calathea It belongs to the Marantaceae family and is native to the tropical regions from South America, especially Brazil and Peru. It is a perennial plant that stands out mainly for its decorative foliage.
There are several species of Calathea, each with unique leaf patterns. Some of the most popular varieties include:
- Calathea roseopicta: Also called calathea medallion, has large leaves with pink and purple patterns.
- Calathea orbifolia: Its leaves are round and large, with silver stripes on a dark green background.
- Calathea zebrinaKnown as the zebra plant, it displays a striped pattern in shades of green and white.
- Calathea lancifolia: Its leaves are long and narrow, with patterns in green and silver tones.
Does Calathea produce flowers?
Although Calathea is widely known for its decorative leaves, it can also produce flowers. However, in indoor environments this occurs less frequently, as it requires Specific conditions to flourish.
Calathea flowers, although pretty, are usually not as spectacular as its foliage. They are generally light in color. white o yellowish and usually sprout on short stems hidden among the leaves. A notable exception is the Calathea crocata, which produces vibrant orange flowers, making it one of the most appreciated varieties for its flowering.
Ideal conditions to stimulate flowering
If you want your Calathea to flourish, you need to provide it with an optimal environment. Here are some key recommendations:
- Moderate indirect light: Although it does not tolerate direct sunlight, it needs good lighting to stimulate its growth.
- High humidity: Calathea thrives in humid environments, so you can use a humidifier or mist its leaves regularly.
- stable temperatures: It is recommended to keep it between 18 and 26 ºC, avoiding sudden changes in temperature.
- Well-drained substrate: A mixture rich in organic matter with perlite or coconut fiber will facilitate the development of its roots.
How to water Calathea correctly
Irrigation is a fundamental aspect for the proper development of this plant. Too much or too little water can affect its growth and prevent it from flowering.
- Frequency: In spring and summer, water once or twice a week. In winter, reduce the frequency to every 10-14 days.
- Avoid puddles: Make sure the pot has good drainage, preventing water from accumulating at the base.
- Use water without chlorine: It is advisable to water it with filtered water or let the tap water sit for 24 hours before using it.
The best fertilizer for flowering
To stimulate the flowering of Calathea, it is important to fertilize it correctly. fertilizers Nitrogen-rich fertilizers promote foliage growth, while those balanced in phosphorus and potassium can stimulate flowering.
It is recommended to apply a liquid fertilizer diluted in water once a month in spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing in winter, as the plant enters a dormant period.
For more details on care and fertilization, you can consult information on the Calathea Freddy, which offers an interesting example of care and attention to this species.
Common problems and how to fix them
Despite being a hardy plant, Calathea can suffer from some problems if it does not receive proper care:
- Leaves with brown tips: It usually indicates a lack of humidity. Increase the ambient humidity and check the quality of the irrigation water.
- Yellowish leaves: This may be due to overwatering. Make sure the substrate drains well and is not too wet.
- Pests: Mites and mealybugs can affect the plant. Use an organic insecticide or wipe the leaves with a damp cloth.
By following these tips, you'll be able to keep your Calathea healthy and beautiful, and increase the chances of it blooming indoors. Although it's not easy to encourage flowering indoors, with proper care and a favorable environment, you can enjoy this fascinating botanical phenomenon.
