Calathea Ornata

Pinstripe Calathea Ornata Soil

Like many other tropical plants, Calathea Ornata likes to have moist soil but not waterlogged. Therefore, it is necessary when potting this plant to find a growing medium that won’t drain too slowly, as this will lead to root rot. However, the soil must also retain some water, as soil that dries too quickly will lead to browning. A coco-coir-based or peat-based soil with additions of standard high-quality potting soil and perlite will be an excellent mixture for the best Calathea Ornata care. Alternatively, you may consider a standard commercial African Violet soil.

Pinstripe Calathea Ornata Fertilizer

Although not considered a heavy feeder, this Calathea indoor plant will appreciate a regular monthly feeding during the growing season of spring and summer. A stand tropical liquid houseplant fertilizer diluted to half strength and with plenty of micronutrients will be perfect for your Calathea. Avoid fertilizing your plant in the winter or overfertilizing. This may lead to issues such as root burn from excess chemicals. Instead, begin your fertilizer regimen when you see new growth in early to mid-spring. 

Pinstripe Calathea Ornata Watering

The watering demands of Calathea Ornata can be challenging to perfect, as it likes to balance dryness and moisture. Overwatering and underwatering will both distress this plant and cause unsightly foliage. Also, ensure that excess water is not sitting within the plant’s tray, which may lead to root rot. It may take some time to find the perfect watering schedule that works for your Calathea, and it will vary widely depending on growing conditions. When watering, use distilled water or rain water to avoid giving the plant excess chemicals from tap, hard water.

Pinstripe Calathea Ornata Light Requirements

This Calathea likes to be grown in bright indirect light, such as from a western or southern-facing window. Ensure that your plant is not sitting in direct sunlight, as this may cause leaf scorching or make the foliage fade. A little bit of shade from sitting next to a window with a sheer curtain will also make this houseplant happy.

Pinstripe Calathea Ornata Temperature & Humidity

Pinstripe plants love warm, humid environments free from winds or drafts. These plants detest cold temperatures and should not be kept lower than 60F as this may cause irreparable damage. Being kept at average household temperatures between 65-85F is ideal. Additionally, this plant loves to be kept in high humidity. This Calathea should be kept between humidity levels of 50-60%. You may increase the humidity in your home by either grouping plants together, placing them on a pebble tray, adding a humidifier, or mist the plant daily.  

Repotting Pinstripe Calathea Ornata

When it comes to this Calathea, they do not want to be repotted unless necessary. This is because they will experience a great deal of shock when being repotted. However, if your plant has become extremely rootbound or there is no room whatsoever for your plant to grow, you should replant your plant in early spring. It would be best if you never repotted an unhealthy Calathea. It will need all of its strength to recover from the shock of being transplanted. Select a container that is 1-2″ larger than the container you have now with drainage holes and choose a well-draining potting mix, such as mentioned above. When repotting, be cautious to not disturb the roots, water thoroughly, and place in indirect light. At first, the foliage of your Calathea may wilt some, but after a few weeks, it should bounce back. 

Pinstripe Calathea Ornata Maintenance & Pruning

To give the best Calathea Ornata care, you will need to prune this plant. The foliage of the Pinstripe Calathea may occasionally turn brown, yellow, or dry up; if this happens periodically, it is no cause for concern. As needed, you may prune away dead or dying leaves to spruce up the appearance of your plant occasionally. Additionally, suppose the tips of the leaves have become brown due to too much sunlight, underwatering, or overfertilization. In that case, you may trim away only the crispy leaf edges that are browned, following the natural curve of the leaf. Keep this plant away from vents and cold drafts from windows.

Pinstripe Calathea Ornata Propagation

Propagation of Calathea Ornata is straightforward and may be done through either root division, stem cutting, or from seed. Propagation should be done in early spring before the rapid growth of summer begins. When new clumps are seen growing at the sides of the plant, it is a good indication that your Calathea is ready to be divided. First, remove the mother plant from its container with care, being careful to not disturb the roots that much. Next, use a sharp, clean blade to cut off clumps growing to the side of the plant. The sections that you divide should ideally each have one leaf at a minimum and some roots; otherwise, it might not take to being transplanted. Each new segment should be repotted into its container, watered lightly, and kept in indirect light. You should see the freshly potted plants recovered and beginning to grow again within a few weeks. 

Pinstripe Calathea Ornata Toxicity

Calathea Ornata is non-toxic to humans and pets.

Toxicity to Humans

The Pinstripe Calathea is considered non-toxic to humans. However, consuming this plant may cause digestive upset. 

Toxicity to Cats & Dogs

This prayer plant is safe for pets and is a wonderful choice for worried pet owners. 

Pinstripe Calathea Ornata Problems

Pinstripe Calathea Ornata Leaves Turning Yellow

The foliage of Calathea Ornata may turn brown due to various factors such as chemical-laden water, overfertilization, underwatering, or too much direct sunlight. In addition, this plant is sensitive to chlorine and fluoride in tap water. Therefore, distilled water or rainwater should be used. 

Pinstripe Calathea Ornata Leaves Turning Brown

If leaves are fading or turning yellow (often called chlorosis), this may be due to too much sunlight or overwatering. 

Pinstripe Calathea Ornata Diseases

The most commonly found disease in Calathea Ornata is root rot due to overwatering.  

Pinstripe Calathea Ornata Pests

Several pests may affect this plant including aphids, mealybugs, spider mites, and fungus gnats. Upon identification, treat with a pesticide ensuring that you follow all label instructions. 

FAQ

Where Should I Place My Calathea?

Calatheas like bright indirect sunlight and only grow to be about 3 feet tall, so placing the Calathea on a plant stand next to a window with sheer curtains is ideal.

Why Is My Calathea Ornata Curling?

Calathea Ornata curl their leaves because of water loss, such as too little water, too little humidity, and when the temperature is too high. Provide them with plenty of humidity and a good watering schedule to avoid this.

OTHER CALATHEA RESOURCES:

• Calathea Guides
• Other Calathea Plants
• Calathea Warscewiczii Plant Guide
• Calathea Orbifolia Plant Guide
• Calathea Lancifolia (Rattlesnake) Plant Guide