The “orb plant” is a captivating houseplant known for its distinctive foliage and unique characteristics. This common name typically refers to Calathea orbifolia, a species celebrated for its large, round leaves. Native to the tropical rainforests of South America, its leaves often display striking patterns of silvery-green stripes against a lush green background.
A notable feature of Calathea orbifolia is its “prayer plant” movement. The leaves of this plant exhibit nyctinasty, a rhythmic daily movement where they flatten during the day to maximize light absorption and then fold upwards at night, resembling hands clasped in prayer. This dynamic behavior, combined with its eye-catching appearance, makes it a popular choice for indoor plant enthusiasts.
Orb Plant Care
The plant thrives in bright, indirect light, mimicking its natural habitat beneath the forest canopy. Direct sunlight can cause leaf scorch, leading to brown spots and a fading of the vibrant leaf patterns. Conversely, insufficient light can hinder the plant’s full development and vibrancy.
Consistent moisture in the soil is important, though waterlogging must be avoided to prevent root rot. Water the plant when the top 1 to 2 inches of soil feel dry to the touch. Using filtered, distilled, or rainwater is recommended, as Calathea orbifolia is sensitive to minerals often found in tap water. After watering, ensure any excess water drains completely from the pot.
High humidity levels, ideally above 50% to 60%, are beneficial for this tropical plant. To increase humidity around your orb plant, place its pot on a pebble tray filled with water, use a room humidifier, or group it with other plants. Regular misting can also offer a temporary boost in humidity.
A well-draining, moisture-retentive potting mix is suitable for Calathea orbifolia. A blend containing components like peat moss or coconut coir, along with perlite or vermiculite, provides the necessary balance of aeration and water retention. The soil should have a slightly acidic pH. Ensuring the pot has adequate drainage holes is important to prevent water accumulation at the roots.
Maintaining a stable temperature range is beneficial for the orb plant. They prefer indoor temperatures between 18°C and 26°C (65-75°F) throughout the year. Temperatures below 15°C (60°F) can be problematic, and exposure to cold drafts or sudden temperature fluctuations should be avoided.
During the active growing season, typically from spring through autumn, fertilize your Calathea orbifolia monthly. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half or quarter strength to prevent nutrient burn. This plant is not a heavy feeder, so over-fertilizing can cause issues. Suspend fertilization during the winter months when the plant’s growth slows down.
Troubleshooting Common Orb Plant Issues
Browning leaf edges or tips frequently points to low humidity, the use of tap water, or insufficient watering. Increasing ambient humidity and switching to filtered water can help alleviate this problem. Over-fertilization can also contribute to brown tips.
Curling leaves on an orb plant often signal that the plant is either underwatered or experiencing low humidity. Checking the soil moisture and ensuring consistent humidity levels are important steps to address this. Cold temperatures or drafts can also cause leaves to curl.
When the vibrant patterns on your orb plant’s leaves begin to fade, it is typically a sign of receiving too much direct light. Moving the plant to a location with bright, indirect light can help restore its characteristic coloration. Insufficient light can also lead to a dull appearance.
Pest infestations can affect Calathea orbifolia. Spider mites are a frequent concern, especially in low-humidity environments, and can be identified by fine webbing on the leaves. Mealybugs, thrips, aphids, and whiteflies may also appear. Organic treatment methods, such as applying neem oil, can help manage these pests.
Drooping leaves might indicate either overwatering or underwatering, low humidity, or drafts. Observing the soil moisture is key to diagnosing the cause. Calathea leaves naturally move throughout the day, appearing more upright at night and relaxing during the day. Yellowing leaves often suggest overwatering and potential root rot.
Propagating Orb Plants
Propagating Calathea orbifolia is primarily achieved through division, a method best performed during repotting in the spring or summer growing season. The process involves gently removing the plant from its pot and carefully shaking away excess soil to expose the root system.
Using a clean, sharp knife or your hands, carefully separate a section of the rhizome that has its own roots and at least one healthy leaf. Each new division should have a viable root system. Plant the newly divided section into a separate pot filled with fresh, well-draining potting mix.
After potting, water the new plant thoroughly and place it in a location that provides bright, indirect light. Maintaining consistent moisture in the soil and providing high humidity will support the new plant as it adjusts and develops new roots. Growth may be slow initially.