Calathea orbifolia care guide
Goeppertia orbifolia
Also known as: Calathea, Round-leaf calathea
Pets and children
We haven't been able to confirm how this plant affects pets or small children. If any is eaten, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
How often to water Calathea orbifolia
- Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
- Every 3 days
- Water as the surface begins to dry so the soil stays lightly moist, as a guide; if it dries out, the leaves curl.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov)
- Every 5 days
- Once it cools, wait about a day after the topsoil dries before watering.
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Every 7 days
- Water roughly two to three days after the topsoil dries, using water near room temperature, since cold water harms the roots.
Light and placement for Calathea orbifolia
Generally best in bright shade with no direct sun; even behind a sheer curtain a summer window can be too strong and bleaches the patterned leaves, while too dark a spot stalls growth.
Overwintering Calathea orbifolia
Overwintering guide: 12°C (54°F) or above
Sensitive to cold and dry air: as a guide keep it in a warm room above about 12°C, away from cold windows and heater drafts, with a humidifier or misting for humidity, watering less but not letting the soil dry out.
Fertilizing and repotting Calathea orbifolia
Fertilizer
A diluted liquid feed about every two weeks from May to September; the roots are sensitive, so mix it weaker than the label says, and give none in winter.
When to repot
Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
Common problems with Calathea orbifolia
- Dry air browns the leaf edges and makes them curl.
- Winter cold or a chilly draft makes the leaves droop and damages the whole plant.
- Spider mites appear in a heated room and the leaves fade and look scratched.
Tips for growing Calathea orbifolia
- Group it with other plants or run a humidifier to hold humidity around 60%.
- The leaves rising at night and opening in the morning is normal behavior, not a problem.
- If tap water browns the leaf tips, try water left to stand overnight or rainwater.
These are AI-generated general guidelines. They vary with the variety, the placement and the pot size. For effects on pets or children, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
Keep your plant log going
Greenery is a free app that keeps your plant care going, with watering reminders and photo records. Available on iOS and Android.
