The Calathea Pink Star is a highly sought-after houseplant, celebrated for its striking, vibrant foliage. Its distinctive patterns bring tropical elegance to indoor spaces.
Understanding Calathea Pink Star
The Calathea Pink Star, also known as Calathea ‘Pink Star’ or Goeppertia ‘Pink Star’, features dark green leaves with wide, hot pink centers. Each leaf presents a vivid contrast. The plant typically grows to about 18 inches tall and wide, making it suitable for desks and tabletops.
A fascinating characteristic of Calathea Pink Star is its “prayer plant” movement, known as nyctinasty. During the day, the leaves spread out to capture light, and as night falls, they fold upwards, resembling hands in prayer. This movement is controlled by specialized joints at the base of the leaves that respond to light changes. Originally from the tropical rainforests of Central and South America, particularly Brazil and Peru, Calathea Pink Star thrives in conditions mimicking its native humid, shady environment.
Calathea Pink Star Care
Caring for a Calathea Pink Star involves understanding its specific needs to maintain its vibrant foliage and health. Consistent conditions help this tropical plant flourish indoors.
Light Requirements
Calathea Pink Star thrives in medium to bright, indirect light. Placing it near a bright window, protected by curtains or in a well-lit room, is ideal. Direct sunlight can burn and discolor its leaves, causing patterns to fade. While it can tolerate low-light spots, brighter indirect light helps maintain the intensity of its pink coloration.
Watering Techniques
Consistent moisture is important for Calathea Pink Star, as it is sensitive to drying out. The soil should be kept slightly moist, similar to a well-wrung sponge, but not soggy, which can lead to root rot. Water the plant when the top 1-2 inches (2-3 cm) of soil feel dry to the touch. Using distilled, filtered, or rainwater is preferable, as these plants are sensitive to chlorine and minerals in tap water, which can cause leaf edges to turn brown.
Humidity Needs
High humidity is important for Calathea Pink Star, with optimal levels ranging from 60-80%. Insufficient humidity can result in brown, crispy leaf edges. To increase humidity, use a small humidifier, group the plant with others, or place its pot on a pebble tray filled with water, ensuring the pot does not sit directly in the water. Misting the leaves regularly, especially in the mornings, can also provide a temporary boost.
Soil and Potting
Calathea Pink Star needs well-draining, moisture-retaining soil. A peaty potting soil that holds water effectively is suitable. Ingredients like compost, pine bark, coco coir, worm castings, and perlite contribute to a good balance of moisture retention and drainage. Proper drainage holes in the pot are essential to prevent waterlogging and root rot.
Temperature Range
Calathea Pink Star prefers warm temperatures, ideally between 65-85°F (18-29°C). It does not tolerate temperatures below 60°F (15°C). Avoid placing the plant near drafts, air vents, or cold windows, as sudden temperature fluctuations can stress the plant and lead to leaf curling. Maintaining a stable, warm environment mimics its tropical origins.
Fertilizing Schedule
During the active growing season, typically spring and summer, Calathea Pink Star benefits from regular fertilization. A balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 is recommended. Dilute the fertilizer to half strength and apply it every two to four weeks. Fertilizing should be reduced or stopped during the fall and winter months when the plant’s growth naturally slows.
Repotting Calathea Pink Star
Repotting Calathea Pink Star becomes necessary when the plant outgrows its current container, typically every one to two years. The best time for repotting is during the spring or early summer, when the plant is actively growing. When repotting, choose a container only 1 to 2 inches larger than the previous one. Gently remove the plant from its old pot, handling the roots with care, and place it into the new pot with fresh, well-draining soil.
Propagating Calathea Pink Star
The most effective method for propagating Calathea Pink Star is through division, often done during the repotting process. Carefully separate the plant into smaller sections, ensuring each new division has a healthy portion of roots and at least a few leaves. Plant these divisions in individual pots filled with a suitable potting mix, providing them with the same care as a mature plant. Extra humidity can help newly divided plants recover and establish themselves.
Common Problems and Troubleshooting
Calathea Pink Star can exhibit issues often pointing to environmental factors or pests. Browning leaf tips or edges are common and typically indicate low humidity or issues with water quality, such as sensitivity to chlorine or minerals in tap water.
Curling leaves can signal underwatering, insufficient humidity, or too cold temperatures. If leaves curl inwards, the plant is often trying to conserve moisture.
Calathea Pink Star can also be susceptible to common houseplant pests like spider mites and mealybugs. Spider mites, in particular, are attracted to Calatheas. Regularly wiping down the leaves helps remove dust and can deter pests. For pest management, a solution of neem oil mixed with water and a small amount of dish soap can be sprayed onto the plant’s foliage, including the undersides of leaves. Consistent treatment is important for managing infestations.