Calathea Royal Standard: Your Ultimate Guide to a Unique Houseplant

Oleh Estelle Keeling June 17, 2023 Post a Comment

Are you looking for a unique houseplant that can add some character to your living space? Look no further than the Calathea Royal Standard. This stunning plant boasts mesmerizing foliage patterns and vibrant colors, making it a popular choice among indoor gardeners. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at this exotic species and explore how you can care for it in your own home.

Calathea Royal Standard, scientifically known as Calathea Ornata, is a tropical perennial plant native to South America. The plant belongs to the Marantaceae family and is closely related to other popular houseplants like the prayer plant and arrowroot plant. What sets the Calathea Royal Standard apart from other plants is its show-stopping foliage. The leaves of this plant are large, oval-shaped, and feature intricate patterns in shades of green, pink, and purple.

In addition to being visually stunning, the Calathea Royal Standard is also an air-purifying plant, which makes it an excellent choice for indoor use. Studies have shown that this plant can remove harmful toxins from the air, thus improving the overall air quality of your home.

Now that you know a little more about the Calathea Royal Standard, let's dive deeper into its care requirements.

1. Light Requirements

The Calathea Royal Standard prefers bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and cause damage to the plant. If you notice that the leaves are turning brown or yellow, it may be an indication that the plant is receiving too much light. On the other hand, if the leaves are turning dark green, it may be a sign that the plant is not receiving enough light.

If you're unsure about how much light your Calathea Royal Standard needs, try placing it near a window that receives indirect light. You can also experiment with different locations in your home until you find the perfect spot for your plant.

2. Watering

The Calathea Royal Standard requires consistently moist soil. However, overwatering can lead to root rot and other issues. To avoid this, water your plant once a week or when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. It's important to use distilled or filtered water, as tap water may contain chemicals that can harm the plant.

3. Temperature and Humidity

The Calathea Royal Standard thrives in warm, humid environments. Ideal temperatures range from 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. If you live in a dry climate, you may need to increase the humidity levels around your plant by using a humidifier or placing a tray of water nearby.

4. Soil Requirements

The Calathea Royal Standard prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. You can create a suitable soil mixture by combining equal parts potting soil, perlite, and peat moss.

5. Fertilizer

To keep your Calathea Royal Standard healthy and happy, you should fertilize it once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer and dilute it to half strength before applying it to the soil.

6. Potting and Repotting

When potting your Calathea Royal Standard, choose a container that is slightly larger than the root ball. This will allow room for growth while preventing the soil from becoming waterlogged. When repotting, do so in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

7. Pruning

Regular pruning can help keep your Calathea Royal Standard looking its best. Remove any dead or yellowing leaves promptly to prevent the spread of disease. You can also trim back leggy growth to encourage bushier growth.

8. Propagation

The Calathea Royal Standard can be propagated through division or stem cuttings. To divide the plant, gently remove it from its container and separate the roots into smaller sections. Replant each section in its own container with fresh soil. For stem cuttings, take a cutting from a healthy plant and place it in a jar of water until roots form. Once roots have formed, you can plant the cutting in soil.

9. Pests and Diseases

Like all plants, the Calathea Royal Standard is susceptible to pests and diseases. Common pests include spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. To prevent infestations, keep your plant healthy and free of debris. If you do notice pests on your plant, you can try using natural remedies like neem oil or insecticidal soap to get rid of them.

10. Toxicity

The Calathea Royal Standard is not toxic to humans or pets. This makes it an excellent choice for households with children or animals.

The Calathea Royal Standard is a unique and striking houseplant that can add some personality to any living space. With proper care and attention, this plant can thrive indoors and provide a range of benefits, from air purification to aesthetic appeal. By following the tips outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your Calathea Royal Standard stays healthy and happy for years to come.

FAQs

Q1. Can I grow Calathea Royal Standard outdoors?

A1. No, the Calathea Royal Standard is a tropical plant that requires warm temperatures and high humidity levels. It is best grown indoors or in a greenhouse.

Q2. Why are the leaves of my Calathea Royal Standard turning brown?

A2. Brown leaves may be an indication of overwatering, underwatering, or too much direct sunlight. Try adjusting your watering schedule or moving the plant to a shadier location to see if this helps.

Q3. How often should I fertilize my Calathea Royal Standard?

A3. You should fertilize your plant once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer and dilute it to half strength before applying it to the soil.

Q4. Can I propagate my Calathea Royal Standard from leaf cuttings?

A4. No, the Calathea Royal Standard is not propagated from leaf cuttings. Instead, you can propagate it through division or stem cuttings.

Q5. What is the ideal temperature range for Calathea Royal Standard?

A5. The Calathea Royal Standard thrives in temperatures ranging from 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

Q6. Is the Calathea Royal Standard a low-maintenance plant?

A6. While the Calathea Royal Standard is relatively easy to care for, it does require consistent attention to maintain its health and appearance.

Q7. Can I mist my Calathea Royal Standard to increase humidity levels?

A7. Yes, misting your plant can help increase humidity levels around it. However, be sure to avoid getting water on the leaves, as this can cause spotting or fungal growth.

Q8. How do I know when it's time to repot my Calathea Royal Standard?

A8. You should repot your plant when it outgrows its current container or when the soil becomes compacted. Repotting is typically in the spring or early summer.

Q9. What type of soil is best for Calathea Royal Standard?

A9. The Calathea Royal Standard prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. You can create a suitable soil mixture by combining equal parts potting soil, perlite, and peat moss.

Q10. Can I prune my Calathea Royal Standard?

A10. Yes, regular pruning can help keep your plant looking its best. Remove any dead or yellowing leaves promptly to prevent the spread of disease. You can also trim back leggy growth to encourage bushier growth.