Pinstripe calathea care guide

Goeppertia ornata

Also known as: Calathea ornata 'Sanderiana', Calathea ornata

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 Pinstripe calathea

Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
Every 3 days
Water as the surface starts to dry to keep the soil lightly moist, as a guide; if it dries out the leaves roll up and the edges suffer.
Autumn (Oct–Nov)
Every 5 days
As it cools, wait about a day after the topsoil dries, as a guide.
Winter (Dec–Feb)
Every 7 days
Water sparingly with room-temperature water about two to three days after the topsoil dries.

Light and placement for Pinstripe calathea

Bright shade out of direct sun, as a guide: strong light generally fades the fine pink-to-white stripes and scorches the dark leaves, so set it back from the window or by a bright north window, though not in deep shade.

Overwintering Pinstripe calathea

Overwintering guide: 12°C (54°F) or above

Tender to cold: as a guide keep it indoors above about 12°C, ideally near 15°C, away from cold night windows and heater drafts, add humidity by humidifier or misting, and water less without letting it dry out.

Fertilizing and repotting Pinstripe calathea

Fertilizer

While new leaves appear from May to September, a liquid feed weaker than the label says about every two to three weeks; strong feed browns the leaf edges, and none is needed from late fall through winter.

When to repot

Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)

Common problems with Pinstripe calathea

  • Dry air browns the leaf edges and tips.
  • Winter cold or cold water makes the leaves droop and weakens the plant.
  • Too much sun bleaches the pink stripes and scorches the leaves.
  • Spider mites on the leaf undersides in dry rooms leave the leaves speckled.

Tips for growing Pinstripe calathea

  • The stripes are pinkest on young leaves and naturally whiten as the leaves age.
  • Misting both sides of the leaves often helps against dry air and spider mites.
  • Leaves that rise at night and open in the morning are typical of this group.

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.

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