Calathea

Calathea are tender herbaceous perennials that grow from fibrous or tuberous roots. Most form clumps and slowly spread from the tubers or rhizomes (lateral underground stems). The foliage of most rise from a central rosette but a few have short stems. The large shiny leaves are elliptical to oval and often marked with blotches, streaks or stripes of colour. They are waxy, light to dark green and often backed with red or purple. Many are sensitive to light and dark and fold in the evening. These tropical plants are grown outside only in the warmest most humid locations. They prefer rich, evenly moist, organic soil with good drainage and filtered light. A hint of dry air, very cool temperatures or drought can cause the leaves to drop or turn brown