Calathea 'Zebrina' (Zebra Plant)

The Calathea 'Zebrina' is a tropical indoor plant famous for its uniquely striped foliage, giving rise to the common name Zebra Plant. Similar to its popular cousin—the prayer plant—Zebra Plant leaves are bright green with dark green stripes. Foliage colour isn’t the only thing these tropical houseplants have in common, as both plants are known to raise or fold their leaves at night. Calathea 'Zebrina' grows up to 90 cm (3 feet) tall, with leaves reaching up to 60 cm (2 feet) long.

Key Features

• Foliage: Large oval leaves of bright green, adorned with distinctive dark green stripes reminiscent of a zebra's coat. The underside of the leaves is often a purple colour. Interestingly, the leaves have the characteristic of rising and folding vertically at night, a phenomenon called nyctinasty.
• Habit: Grows upright and bushy, forming a beautiful clump of decorative foliage.
• Growth: Considered moderate, the plant may take a few years to reach its mature size indoors.
• Care: Classified as moderate to difficult due to its specific needs for humidity and watering. Consistent attention is required to maintain its optimal appearance.
• Flowering: Flowering is rare as an indoor plant. If it does bloom, it is usually in the spring, producing small purple or white flowers that emerge on spikes. However, it is primarily cultivated for its spectacular foliage.

Care Tips

• Light: Prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can burn the leaves.
• Soil: Requires loamy, moist but well-drained soil. A mix of potting soil, perlite, and peat moss is ideal.
• Watering: Water regularly when the top inch or two of the soil begins to dry. Generally once a week during the growing season and less often in winter.
• Temperature and Humidity: Requires high humidity, ideally above 60%. Warm temperatures between 18°C and 24°C (65°F and 75°F) are preferred. Avoid temperatures below 10°C (50°F). A humidifier, a tray of pebbles with water, or regular misting can help maintain humidity.
• Fertilization: Fertilizing is generally not necessary. If growth is slow, fertilize lightly during the growing season with a balanced formula diluted to a quarter of the recommended strength.
• Propagation: Can be propagated by division in the spring when the plant has produced several rosettes of leaves at the base.
• Repotting: Repot every two years or so, when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a slightly larger pot with good drainage holes.

Common Problems

• Brown, Curling Leaf Tips: Indicates a lack of humidity or water. Increase humidity and water if the soil is dry.
• Drooping, Mushy Stems: Sign of overwatering. Act quickly to prevent root rot.