Calathea Care and Flowering: What to Expect from Your Striped Beauty

Calatheas are prized for their striking foliage—think Calathea concinna with its light and dark green stripes. With over 300 species, these tropical plants occasionally surprise owners with fragrant, trumpet-shaped white flowers at the base. While flowering isn't common indoors, it's a sign of a happy, mature plant.

Essential Calathea Care

• Light: Bright, indirect light (north or east windowsill). Avoid direct sun.
• Water: Keep soil evenly moist; water thoroughly when the surface feels dry. Use filtered or distilled water if tap water is hard.
• Humidity: High humidity is crucial. Use a pebble tray or humidifier.
• Pot size: Keep moderately potbound in small pots.
• Fertilizer: Half-strength monthly during growing season.
• Pruning: Cut back flower stems after blooms fade.

Your decades of orchid success suggest you have the patience and observation skills calatheas need. The hidden, fragrant flowers are a delightful bonus—enjoy them!