The ‘Kayla’ plant, often identified as Calathea ‘Kayla’ or Goeppertia ‘Kayla’, stands out as an appealing ornamental houseplant. Its distinctive foliage patterns and vibrant colors contribute to its popularity among indoor plant enthusiasts. This article provides a guide for identifying this cultivar and understanding its care requirements.
Identifying the Kayla Plant
The ‘Kayla’ plant is recognized by its striking leaf characteristics. Its leaves are oval to broadly elliptic, with a deep green upper surface adorned with intricate patterns of darker green, almost black, along the veins and midrib. The underside of each leaf exhibits a rich, reddish-purple hue. This contrast is noticeable when the leaves move, a characteristic trait of plants in the Marantaceae family.
Mature ‘Kayla’ plants reach 1 to 2 feet (30-60 cm) in height with a similar spread, forming a bushy, upright clump. Its compact growth habit suits various indoor spaces. The distinct dark markings on the upper leaf surface, combined with the purple underside, distinguish it from other Calathea or Goeppertia cultivars.
Kayla Plant Care Guide
Light Needs
The ‘Kayla’ plant thrives in conditions that mimic its natural understory habitat, preferring bright, indirect light. Placing it near an east or north-facing window provides gentle morning sun or consistent ambient brightness. Direct sunlight, especially intense afternoon rays, can scorch its delicate leaves, leading to faded patterns and brown patches. Insufficient light can cause patterns to diminish and growth to become leggy.
Watering Requirements
Maintaining consistent soil moisture is important for the ‘Kayla’ plant, though it should never be waterlogged. Water thoroughly when the top inch (2.5 cm) of soil feels dry, allowing excess water to drain completely. Using filtered, distilled, or rainwater is recommended, as the plant is sensitive to chlorine, fluoride, and mineral salts in tap water. These chemicals can accumulate, leading to browning leaf tips and edges.
Humidity and Temperature
High humidity levels benefit the ‘Kayla’ plant, requiring humidity above 60%. Dry air causes leaf edges to crisp and curl, indicating stress. To increase humidity, group plants, place the pot on a pebble tray, or use a room humidifier. The plant prefers stable warm temperatures, ideally 65°F to 80°F (18°C-27°C). Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations or drafts, as these negatively impact its health.
Soil and Fertilizing
A well-draining yet moisture-retentive potting mix is best for the ‘Kayla’ plant. A suitable blend includes peat moss or coco coir for moisture retention, mixed with perlite or orchid bark for drainage and aeration. Fertilization should be minimal; a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer, diluted to half strength, can be applied every 2-4 weeks during the active growing season from spring through early autumn.
Troubleshooting Common Kayla Plant Issues
Leaf curling and crisping indicate environmental stress. This points to insufficient humidity or underwatering, as the plant attempts to conserve moisture by rolling its leaves inward. Ensuring consistent soil moisture and a humid environment resolves these symptoms.
Browning leaf tips and edges occur due to dry air, inconsistent watering, or mineral buildup from tap water. Switching to filtered or distilled water prevents mineral accumulation, while maintaining higher ambient humidity addresses dryness. Inconsistent watering, either too much or too little, stresses the plant, leading to brown edges.
Loss of leaf vibrancy or fading patterns suggests improper light exposure. If patterns appear washed out, the plant receives too much direct light. If colors seem dull or the plant is not growing vigorously, it is not getting enough indirect light. Adjusting its placement to a brighter, indirectly lit spot restores its characteristic coloration.
‘Kayla’ plants are susceptible to common houseplant pests, particularly spider mites, which thrive in dry conditions. Regular inspection of the leaves, especially the undersides, helps early detection. If pests are found, gently wiping leaves with a damp cloth or applying insecticidal soap manages infestations. Adequate humidity deters spider mites.