Calathea Crimson, also known as ‘Dottie’, is a tropical plant native to the Amazon. It features broad, oval leaves with deep green tops and crimson or pink undersides. This striking contrast makes it a highly sought-after ornamental houseplant. Belonging to the Marantaceae family, it’s called a “prayer plant” because its leaves fold up at night and flatten during the day.
Essential Care Requirements
Light
Calathea Crimson thrives in bright, indirect light. A north or east-facing window with filtered light is ideal. Direct sunlight harms its foliage, causing scorched spots, browning edges, and fading colors.
Watering
Consistent soil moisture is important for Calathea Crimson, but avoid waterlogged conditions to prevent root rot. Water when the top inch or two of soil feels dry, ensuring proper drainage. Use room temperature, filtered, distilled, or rainwater, as Calatheas are sensitive to tap water minerals that can cause crispy leaf edges.
Humidity
High humidity, ideally 50-70%, is important for Calathea Crimson. Inadequate humidity causes brown leaf tips or edges and curling leaves. Increase humidity with regular misting, a pebble tray, or a room humidifier. Grouping plants also creates a more humid microclimate.
Temperature
Calathea Crimson prefers warm, stable temperatures, ideally 18-24°C (65-75°F). Protect the plant from sudden temperature fluctuations and cold drafts, which can cause leaves to curl or droop. Consistent warmth mimics its native tropical habitat.
Soil
The ideal soil mix for Calathea Crimson provides excellent drainage and sufficient moisture retention. A well-aerated potting mix, rich in organic matter, works best. Components that can be incorporated include:
Peat moss
Perlite
Orchid bark
Charcoal
Coco coir
This blend prevents waterlogging while ensuring roots have access to moisture and air.
Fertilizing
During the active growing season (spring through early fall), Calathea Crimson benefits from regular fertilization. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 NPK) diluted to half strength, fertilizing monthly or every two to four weeks. Reduce or pause fertilization entirely during winter when growth slows.
Repotting and Potting
Repot Calathea Crimson every one to two years, or when root-bound, ideally in spring before its active growing season. Choose a new pot only slightly larger (one to two inches wider) to prevent excessive moisture retention. Gently remove the plant from its old pot, protecting the root ball. Place it into the new container at a similar depth, backfilling with fresh soil.
Pots with drainage holes are essential. After repotting, water thoroughly and maintain warm, humid conditions to aid recovery from transplant shock.
Propagation
Calathea Crimson is primarily propagated by division, best done during spring repotting. This involves carefully separating the plant’s rhizomes into smaller sections. Each new section needs healthy roots and at least a few leaves or a shoot for successful establishment.
After dividing, pot each section into its own container with fresh, moist potting mix. Water gently to settle the soil. Provide a warm, humid environment for initial care, encouraging new growth and acclimation.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Crispy/Brown Leaf Edges
Crispy or brown leaf edges often indicate low humidity, insufficient watering, or sensitivity to tap water minerals. Over-fertilization can also contribute. Increase ambient humidity with misting or humidifiers. Use filtered, distilled, or rainwater and ensure consistent soil moisture to prevent mineral buildup and dryness.
Curling/Drooping Leaves
Curling or drooping leaves signal stress from underwatering, inadequate humidity, or cold temperatures. Check soil moisture and water if dry. Increase humidity and protect the plant from cold drafts and sudden temperature drops to help leaves unfurl.
Fading Leaf Color/Loss of Pattern
Fading leaf color or pattern often signals too much direct light exposure, which diminishes pigmentation. Relocate the plant to a shadier spot with diffused light to restore coloration. Under-fertilization can also contribute to a dull appearance.
Pests
Calathea Crimson is susceptible to common houseplant pests like:
Spider mites
Mealybugs
Aphids
Fungus gnats
Signs include webbing, sticky residue on leaves, or visible insects. Regularly inspect the plant, especially leaf undersides, for early detection. Treatment involves wiping leaves with a damp cloth, applying insecticidal soap, or using neem oil. Higher humidity deters spider mites, and avoiding overwatering prevents fungus gnats.