Calathea Angela is a visually striking houseplant, admired for its intricate foliage and vibrant coloration. Its leaves feature beautiful patterns, often with a subtle silvery-pink tone and a deep maroon underside, making it a captivating addition to any indoor space. Sometimes known as Calathea roseopicta ‘Angela’, it is part of the Marantaceae family, often called “prayer plants” due to their unique habit of moving their leaves throughout the day. Originating from the tropical rainforests of South America, Calathea Angela thrives in environments that mimic its native habitat.
Calathea Angela Care Requirements
Light
Calathea Angela thrives in bright, indirect light, which helps maintain the vibrancy of its foliage patterns. Direct sunlight can scorch leaves or dull their colors, as these plants naturally grow on the forest floor beneath a dense canopy. An ideal placement is near an east or north-facing window, or in a shaded spot near a window. If positioned near a south-facing window, sheer curtains can diffuse intense sunlight.
Watering
Consistent moisture is important for Calathea Angela, so the soil should be kept moist but not soggy. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while allowing the soil to dry out completely can stress the plant. A good practice is to water when the top inch or two of the soil feels dry to the touch. Calatheas are sensitive to chemicals found in tap water, such as chlorine, fluoride, and salts. Using filtered, distilled, or rainwater is often recommended.
Humidity
High humidity is a significant requirement for Calathea Angela, as it originates from tropical environments. Humidity levels above 50% are preferred, with some thriving at 60% or higher. Methods to increase humidity include placing the plant on a pebble tray filled with water, grouping it with other plants, or using a humidifier. Misting the leaves can help, but it should be done carefully to avoid fungal issues.
Soil
A well-draining yet moisture-retentive potting mix is important for Calathea Angela. A blend that includes peat moss, perlite, and coco coir provides good aeration and helps maintain appropriate moisture levels. Avoiding heavy soils that retain too much water is important to prevent root rot. A slightly acidic potting medium is also beneficial.
Temperature
Calathea Angela prefers warm and stable temperatures, typically ranging from 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C). It is important to protect the plant from temperatures below 60°F (15°C), as cold drafts or sudden fluctuations can stress the plant and cause leaf damage. Positioning the plant away from air conditioning vents, radiators, or drafty windows helps maintain a consistent environment.
Fertilizing
During its active growing season, typically from spring to autumn, Calathea Angela benefits from regular fertilization. A balanced liquid fertilizer applied monthly, at a diluted strength, is often suitable. It is important to withhold fertilizer during the winter months when the plant’s growth slows down.
Addressing Common Calathea Angela Problems
Crispy Leaf Edges or Brown Tips
Crispy leaf edges or brown tips often indicate insufficient humidity, inconsistent watering, poor water quality, or over-fertilizing. Low humidity, particularly below 40%, can cause leaf edges to dry and become brittle. High levels of chlorine, salts, or minerals from tap water, or excess fertilizer, can also contribute to leaf tip burn. Consistent moisture and filtered water help prevent these issues.
Yellowing Leaves
Yellowing leaves can signal several issues, with overwatering being a frequent cause. Consistently soggy soil deprives roots of oxygen, leading to root rot and nutrient absorption problems. Yellowing can also occur from underwatering, incorrect light exposure (too much direct sun), temperature fluctuations, or nutrient deficiencies.
Drooping Leaves
Leaves may droop due to underwatering or transplant shock. When thirsty, cells lose turgor pressure, causing leaves to wilt. If soil is dry several inches down, increased watering is needed. Drooping can also be a sign of shock after repotting, as the plant adjusts to its new environment. Differentiate true drooping from the natural “prayer” movement, where leaves fold up at night and lower during the day.
Pest Infestations
Calathea Angela is susceptible to common houseplant pests like spider mites, mealybugs, aphids, and scale insects. Spider mites thrive in dry conditions, causing stippling, discoloration, and fine webbing. Mealybugs appear as white, cottony masses on leaf undersides and stems, feeding on plant sap. Regular inspection, especially of leaf undersides, is important for early detection. Treatment involves wiping leaves with a damp cloth, applying insecticidal soap, or using neem oil.
Repotting Your Calathea Angela
Repotting is needed every few years, or when the plant shows signs of being root-bound. Indicators include roots emerging from drainage holes, stunted growth, or the soil drying out very quickly. The best time to repot is during spring or early summer, coinciding with its active growing phase.
When repotting, gently remove the plant and inspect the root ball. Choose a new pot one or two sizes larger, ensuring adequate drainage holes. Use fresh, well-draining potting mix. Carefully place the plant, spreading its roots, and bury it to the same depth as before. Water lightly after repotting to help it settle.
Propagating Calathea Angela
Calathea Angela is primarily propagated through division, separating clumps from the parent plant. This is best performed during repotting in spring. To divide, carefully remove the plant from its pot. Gently untangle or cut sections of the root ball, ensuring each division has its own roots and several leaves.
Each separated clump should be planted into its own pot with fresh, well-draining soil. After division, new plants require a warm, humid environment with indirect light to establish. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during this adjustment period. Avoid fertilizing immediately to allow roots to recover. New growth, appearing within a few weeks, indicates successful acclimation.