La ctenanthe burle marxii, also known as the fishbone plant, Burle Marx calathea, or Fishbone maranta, is one of the most fascinating and beautiful houseplants you can incorporate into your home. At first glance, it is often confused with calatheas and marantas, since they all belong to the Marantaceae family and share the characteristic of moving their leaves depending on the light, a phenomenon known as nyctinastiaHowever, Ctenanthe burle marxii stands out not only for its kinship, but for the elegance and uniqueness of its foliage, as well as for its specific care needs, which, although similar, have their own particularities. If you are looking for an exotic, decorative-looking, and easy-to-maintain plant, read on to discover how to care for and enjoy it to the fullest. Ctenanthe burle marxii care and characteristics.
Botanical characteristics and origin of Ctenanthe burle marxii
La ctenanthe burle marxii It is native to the tropical rainforests of Central and South America, especially Brazil, growing in humid, shaded areas under the tree canopy. Within the natural environment, it contributes to biodiversity by providing shelter and food for different species of local fauna. This jungle environment explains why requires high environmental humidity and its preference for stable, warm temperatures. Also, if you want to delve deeper into its characteristics, you can consult the Characteristics of Ctenanthe oppenheimiana.
Su name It honors renowned Brazilian landscape designer Roberto Burle Marx, a pioneer of modern landscaping and a major promoter of native Brazilian ornamental plants. This connection with art and botany gives Ctenanthe burle marxii a special decorative and symbolic value within the world of indoor plants.
Among the most striking features of the are:
- Oval leaves, long and flat, deep green, with a herringbone pattern running across the leaf blade. This pattern is the reason for their common name.
- El underside of leaves It displays a reddish or violet tone, contrasting and generating a very decorative effect, especially when the plant unfolds its leaves during the day and folds them at night.
- Height and growthIt has a compact growth height of up to 30-40 cm, growing wider due to the continuous growth of side shoots. This makes it an ideal choice for indoors, even in small spaces or grouped with other species that require humidity.
- FloweringAlthough it's rare to see them bloom indoors, in their natural habitat they produce spikes of small, discreet white flowers. If you see them blooming at home, it's a sure sign that you're providing them with optimal care.
- Air purification: In addition to its beauty, it helps improve air quality by filtering toxins, thus bringing health and well-being to the environment.
Due to its low level of toxicity, it is considered a safe plant for homes with children and pets.
Main varieties of Ctenanthe
The Ctenanthe family includes various species and cultivars, many of them appreciated for the spectacular nature of their leaves. Some of the most popular varieties and related to them are:
- Ctenanthe oppenheimiana: Elongated leaves with silver veins and pale green edges.
- Ctenanthe lubbersiana: Deep green foliage with irregular spots and yellow tones.
- Ctenanthe setosa: Famous for its velvety texture, oval leaves and distinctive pattern.
- Ctenanthe burle marxii 'Amagris': It stands out for its silver-gray color and soft green veins.
These species share similar care requirements and can be combined to create lush spaces, promoting the environmental humidity they so appreciate.
Essential care of Ctenanthe burle marxii
Location and lighting
This plant prefers bright indirect lightDirect sun causes scorching and discoloration of the foliage, while deep shade slows growth and dulls the leaf pattern. The optimal location is near east- or north-facing windows, behind a light curtain, or in bright rooms, always avoiding direct sunlight. For more information, you can also consult exotic indoor plants.
In low-light environments, Ctenanthe can survive, but with reduced foliage development and color intensity. In cases of light deficiency, consider using LED grow lights.
Temperature and currents
The temperatures between 16 and 24 ° C They are ideal for Ctenanthe burle marxii, although they occasionally tolerate temperatures a few degrees lower. They do not tolerate frost or sudden temperature changes, so it is important to avoid placing them near windows exposed to cold drafts, radiators, or air conditioners.
If the temperature drops below 13°C or rises above 26°C, the plant will experience limp leaves, loss of color, and possible stunted growth. For related topics, you can also consult artificial hedges.
Humidity
One of the Keys to the well-being of Ctenanthe burle marxii It's environmental humidity. In nature, plants enjoy humid microclimates, so dry or heated environments can cause brown tips, wrinkling, and wilting. To improve humidity, you can also consult spray the plants with water.
- Spray the leaves with lime-free water, avoiding saturating the foliage and always during daylight hours.
- Group several plants that require humidity to “create” a local microclimate.
- Place the pot on a saucer filled with pebbles and water, so that the bottom of the pot always remains dry, but the water evaporates upwards.
- Use a humidifier during dry weather.
If the humidity level drops below 50-60%, you'll notice deterioration on the edges of the leaves. Ventilation should be gentle, as strong drafts can cause irreversible damage.
Substrate, pot and transplant
The appropriate substrate must be rich in organic matter, loose and with excellent drainageIdeal mixes include peat, perlite, coconut fiber, and some pine bark. The optimal pH is around 6, slightly acidic. For more in-depth information on growing, you can visit Calathea family species care and secrets.
- Avoid heavy or compact substrates that make it difficult for the roots to aerate.
- The pot should have drainage holes and be appropriate for the size of the root ball, without excess water retention.
- Transplanting is recommended every 2-3 years, when the plant has completely colonized the pot or its roots have emerged from the holes at the bottom.
During transplanting, take the opportunity to divide the clumps if you want to propagate them and replace part of the substrate with a fresh, loose one.
Irrigation
irrigation should be moderate but frequent, keeping the substrate slightly moist but never waterlogged. Excess water, combined with poor drainage, can cause root rot. To avoid problems, also consult .
- In spring and summer, water 2 to 3 times a week, adjusting the frequency according to temperature and ventilation.
- In autumn and winter, reduce watering to once every 10-15 days, always checking that the first few centimetres of substrate are dry before watering again.
- The best way to know if your plant needs water is to stick your finger in the soil: if it's still moist, wait a few more days.
- Sensitivity to tap water: If your water is very hard, opt for filtered, distilled, or rainwater to avoid salt buildup that can stain the leaves.
Drooping or drooping leaves usually indicate a lack of water, while widespread yellowing is usually a symptom of waterlogging.
Fertilizer and nutrition
During the period of active growth (spring and summer), it's recommended to fertilize every 2-4 weeks with a balanced fertilizer for green or indoor plants, always using low doses to avoid root burn. In fall and winter, suspend fertilization. For more details, visit .
- Select products rich in nitrogen, potassium and some phosphorus.
- Slow-release liquid fertilizers are the most practical, but if you use chemical fertilizers, dilute them to half the manufacturer's recommended dosage.
- If you over-fertilize, rinse the substrate by running water to remove any remaining fertilizer.
Cleaning and maintenance of the leaves
To ensure the photosynthesis and prevent pests, clean the leaves periodically with a soft, damp cloth, removing any accumulated dust. Do not use polishes or chemicals, as they can damage them or clog the stomata. If you see persistent stains, use only warm water and then dry with another clean cloth. For more information on cleaning, see .
Pests, diseases and common problems
- Mealybugs: They adhere to the underside of leaves, weakening the plant. Remove them manually with a cotton ball soaked in alcohol, or apply potassium soap, neem oil, or diatomaceous earth as a preventative measure.
- Mites and aphids: They are less common but possible in very dry environments. Inspect regularly and, if they appear, treat with natural insecticides or insecticidal soap.
- Yellow sheets: This is usually due to overwatering or a nutritional deficiency. Adjust the frequency and check the fertilizer.
- Brown tips: They indicate low humidity or salt buildup in the water. Spray with lime-free water and, if possible, use filtered water.
- Leaf spotsVery hard water or sudden temperature changes may be responsible. Change the water type and stabilize the environment.
- Fall of leaves: Due to drafts, drastic changes, or prolonged dryness. Avoid moving the plant frequently.
La prevention It is key to maintain stable humidity, good drainage, moderate ventilation and clean the leaves frequently.
Multiplication and transplantation
The simplest and most effective way to multiply your Ctenanthe burle marxii it is through the division of bushesTake advantage of the transplant to separate rhizomes, ensuring each section has roots and several leaves. Plant the divisions in small pots with fresh soil, keeping them moist until they take root. For more details, you can also consult tropical shade plants.
- Propagation by seed is possible but rarely used indoors due to its slowness and low success rate.
Don't repot your plant unnecessarily; do so only when the pot becomes too small or the substrate deteriorates.
La ctenanthe burle marxii It is, without a doubt, one of the most appreciated indoor plants for the sculptural beauty of its leaves, its ability to create fresh and healthy environments, and its resilience if a few essential care measures are followed. Incorporating it into your home is a sure bet for design, nature, and well-being. Watch it move forward with its unique leaf dance and enjoy a unique plant that connects your space with the energy and vitality of the tropical rainforest.
