Calathea red

Calathea lutea ‘Red’ is a tropical plant known for its large, paddle-shaped leaves with a reddish underside. It belongs to the Marantaceae (Prayer Plant) family and thrives in warm, humid environments. This plant is often grown for its striking foliage and is sometimes used in landscaping or as a decorative indoor plant.

Care Guide:

• Light: Prefers bright, indirect light; can tolerate some shade but avoid direct sun, which can scorch the leaves.

• Watering: Keep soil moist but not soggy; water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid letting it dry out completely.

• Humidity: Loves high humidity; misting or a humidifier helps prevent leaf curling or browning.

• Temperature: Ideal range is 65-85°F (18-29°C); avoid cold drafts.

• Soil: Well-draining, rich potting mix (peat-based or organic mix works well).

• Fertilizing: Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer).

• Pruning: Trim damaged or yellowing leaves to encourage new growth.

Common Issues:

• Browning leaf edges: Usually due to low humidity or inconsistent watering.

• Curling leaves: Can be a sign of underwatering or too much direct sunlight.

• Yellowing leaves: Often caused by overwatering or poor drainage.

• Pests: Watch for spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs; wipe leaves regularly to prevent infestations.