It is a common misunderstanding that Calathea and Orchid plants are the same. While both are popular houseplants, they belong to distinct botanical families with different care needs. Understanding these differences is important for successful cultivation. This article clarifies these distinctions and provides a comprehensive guide to Calathea care.
Understanding the Difference: Calathea vs. Orchid
What is a Calathea?
Calatheas are a genus of flowering plants in the Marantaceae family, often called prayer plants. Native to the tropical Americas, they thrive on rainforest floors, receiving dappled sunlight. They are celebrated for their striking foliage, featuring diverse patterns and vibrant colors like pink, orange, red, and white, often with purple undersides.
A unique characteristic is their nyctinastic movement, where leaves fold upwards at night and unfurl in the morning, enabled by a pulvinus joint. While some species produce yellow, purple, or white flowers, their decorative leaves are the main attraction for most growers. Calatheas are evergreen perennials that grow from rhizomes, exhibiting a clumping habit.
What is an Orchid?
Orchids belong to the Orchidaceae family, one of the largest and most diverse plant families, with around 28,000 species. Found globally, they are most diverse in tropical regions. Most orchids are perennial epiphytes, growing anchored to other plants, though some are terrestrial or lithophytic.
Orchids are known for their intricate, often fragrant blooms, displaying an astonishing array of colors, shapes, and sizes. An orchid flower typically has three sepals and three petals, with one petal modified into a prominent “lip” or labellum for pollinators. Their reproductive organs are fused into a single structure called a column.
Comprehensive Calathea Care Guide
Light Requirements
Calatheas thrive in bright, indirect light, mimicking their native rainforest understory where they receive dappled sunlight. An ideal location is near a north or east-facing window, or a few feet from a sunny window with sheer curtains. Too much direct sunlight can scorch leaves, causing faded colors or crispy brown edges. Insufficient light results in smaller leaves, washed-out patterns, and slowed growth. Rotate the plant periodically for even growth.
Watering Needs
Calatheas need consistent moisture but avoid soggy soil to prevent root rot. Water when the top one to two inches of soil feel dry. Frequency varies: every 5-7 days during active growth (spring/summer) and 7-14 days during dormancy (fall/winter). Calatheas are sensitive to tap water minerals like chlorine and fluoride, which can cause brown leaf tips. Use distilled, filtered, or rainwater. Always use room-temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.
Humidity Preferences
Calatheas need high humidity, ideally above 50-60%, due to their tropical origin. Signs of insufficient humidity include curling leaves or crispy, brown edges. Replicating their natural habitat prevents these issues. Increase humidity by placing the plant on a pebble tray (pot not in water), grouping plants for a localized microclimate, or using a room humidifier. Bathrooms can also be beneficial.
Soil and Potting
A well-draining, moisture-retentive potting mix is ideal for Calatheas, such as a peat-based blend or one designed for African violets (peat moss, perlite, potting soil). The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral. Ensure pots have drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. Repot every one to two years to refresh soil and provide root space. Choose a pot size appropriate for the current root ball to avoid overwatering.
Temperature
Calatheas prefer warm, stable temperatures, ideally 65-85°F (18-29°C). They are sensitive to cold; temperatures below 60°F (15°C) can cause stress, leaf curling, or damage. Protect them from cold drafts, sudden fluctuations, and direct exposure to heating or AC vents. Consistent temperature minimizes stress and helps the plant thrive, as their tropical origin means they do not tolerate cold well.
Fertilization
Calatheas do not require heavy fertilization; a “less is more” approach prevents nutrient burn. During the active growing season (spring/summer), fertilize every two to four weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 N-P-K), diluted to half or quarter strength. Do not fertilize during fall and winter dormancy. Over-fertilization can cause salt buildup, leading to leaf discoloration or damage. Ensure the plant is healthy and actively growing before fertilizing.
Why the Misconception Exists
The confusion between Calatheas and Orchids likely stems from their common presence and ornamental appeal in the houseplant market. Both are sought after for vibrant colors and patterns, and their exotic appearances contribute to a general association with lush, decorative plants. Nurseries often display various houseplants together, leading casual observers to group them without understanding distinct botanical classifications. While Calatheas are known for foliage and Orchids for flowers, their shared status as popular, visually appealing indoor plants can blur distinctions for those unfamiliar with plant families.