Calathea hagbergii is a visually appealing houseplant from the tropical rainforests of Central and South America. Its striking foliage and vibrant appearance make it a popular choice, bringing exotic elegance to indoor spaces.
Unique Characteristics of Calathea hagbergii
Calathea hagbergii has distinctive large, oval-shaped leaves. The upper surface is dark green, often with intricate patterns and a prominent purple midrib. The underside is a rich purple, providing a striking contrast to the green upper surface. This plant also exhibits nyctinasty, where its leaves fold upwards at night, resembling hands in prayer, and unfurl again in the morning in response to light. This movement is enabled by specialized joints called pulvini, located at the base of the leaf stalks.
Calathea hagbergii Care Guide
Light Requirements
Calathea hagbergii thrives in bright, indirect light, mimicking its rainforest habitat. Direct sunlight can scorch leaves, causing them to fade, curl, or develop brown edges. Insufficient light leads to dull foliage and stunted growth. Place it near a north or east-facing window, or several feet from a brighter window, possibly with a sheer curtain to diffuse intense light.
Watering Needs
Maintaining consistent moisture in the soil is important for Calathea hagbergii, but it should never be waterlogged. Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry slightly before watering. Overwatering causes root rot, while underwatering leads to wilting and curling leaves. Using filtered, distilled, or rainwater is highly recommended, as the plant is sensitive to chlorine, salts, and fluoride in tap water, which can cause browning leaf tips.
Humidity Preferences
Calathea hagbergii requires high humidity, ideally 50% or higher. Low humidity results in crispy, brown leaf edges. Increase humidity by placing the pot on a pebble tray, using a room humidifier, or grouping plants. Bathrooms or kitchens can also provide naturally higher humidity.
Soil and Potting
Use a well-draining yet moisture-retentive potting mix for Calathea hagbergii. Ingredients like compost, pine bark, coco coir, perlite, and worm castings improve aeration and drainage while retaining moisture. The soil pH should be neutral, ideally between 6.5 and 7.0, as acidic soil can harm roots. When repotting, select a pot one or two sizes larger than the current rootball.
Temperature Range
Calathea hagbergii prefers stable warm temperatures, from 65°F to 85°F (18°C to 30°C). Temperatures below 60°F (15°C) can cause damage. Avoid cold drafts or sudden fluctuations. Maintaining a consistent temperature helps prevent stress to the plant.
Fertilizing
During the spring and summer growing season, fertilize Calathea hagbergii monthly with a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer, diluted to a quarter or half strength. Over-fertilization can lead to root damage, so it is best to start with lower concentrations. Reduce or stop fertilizing in autumn and winter when growth slows.
Repotting and Propagating Calathea hagbergii
Repotting
Repot Calathea hagbergii every few years when it outgrows its container or the soil depletes. The best time for repotting is in the spring or early summer, just before the active growing season begins. Gently remove the plant, loosen compacted soil around the roots, and place it into a slightly larger container with fresh potting mix. Ensure the top of the rootball is just below the new soil surface.
Propagating
Propagating Calathea hagbergii is most effectively done through division, which involves carefully separating the plant’s rhizomatous root ball into smaller sections, each with its own foliage and root system. Water the plant thoroughly the day before to ease removal and reduce stress. After gently removing the plant, identify natural divisions within the root clump and separate them by hand or with a clean, sharp tool. Each division needs multiple leaves and healthy roots. Pot these new divisions into separate containers with fresh potting mix and keep them warm, moist, and humid until new growth establishes.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Browning leaf tips or edges on Calathea hagbergii indicate low humidity or sensitivity to tap water minerals. Increase humidity and use filtered or distilled water. Curling leaves signal underwatering or insufficient humidity, indicating the plant is stressed and attempting to conserve moisture. Yellowing leaves can result from either overwatering, which leads to root rot, or occasionally from nutrient deficiencies. Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings and ensure proper drainage.
Pest infestations can affect Calathea hagbergii. Spider mites are a common concern, especially in dry conditions, and their presence is often indicated by tiny webs and stippling on the leaves. Mealybugs and aphids may also appear, typically on the undersides of leaves or new growth. Inspect plants regularly and treat promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Maintaining appropriate humidity and consistent care reduces pest susceptibility.