Calathea Rufibarba, often called the “Furry Feather” or “Velvet Calathea,” is a captivating houseplant cherished for its distinctive foliage. It brings an elegant aesthetic to indoor spaces, making it a popular choice for plant enthusiasts. A member of the prayer plant family, Calathea Rufibarba is known for its dynamic leaf movements.
Characteristics and Appearance
Calathea Rufibarba features elongated, wavy-edged leaves that are vibrant green on their upper surfaces. The undersides of these leaves and the stems are covered in a soft, velvety, reddish-brown fuzz, which gives the plant its common names. This fuzz is a defining characteristic.
The plant exhibits an upright growth habit, forming a clump of slender leaves that arch gracefully from a central base. Its leaves fold upwards at night and unfurl again in the morning, a natural adaptation to optimize light absorption and reduce moisture loss.
Calathea Rufibarba Care Guide
Light
Calathea Rufibarba thrives in bright, indirect light, mimicking its natural understory habitat in rainforests. Place the plant near a window with filtered light, such as an east-facing window or a south-facing window with sheer curtains. Direct sunlight can scorch its delicate leaves, causing burn marks. Insufficient light can cause the plant to lose its vibrant coloration and result in slower growth.
Water and Humidity
Maintain consistent soil moisture without waterlogging. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering leads to root rot, while underwatering causes leaves to curl or droop. Use distilled, filtered, or rainwater, as minerals and chemicals in tap water can cause brown leaf tips.
High humidity is important for Calathea Rufibarba, ideally above 60%. Its native Brazilian rainforest environment is very humid, and low home humidity can lead to brown leaf edges. Increase humidity by using a humidifier, placing the plant on a pebble tray, or grouping it with other plants.
Soil and Fertilization
A well-draining, moisture-retentive potting mix is suitable for Calathea Rufibarba. A peat-based mix amended with perlite or vermiculite enhances drainage while retaining moisture.
During the active growing season (spring through summer), fertilize every two to four weeks with a diluted, balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer. Dilute the fertilizer to about one-quarter strength to avoid harming sensitive roots. Reduce or withhold fertilization during fall and winter when growth slows.
Temperature
Calathea Rufibarba thrives in warm, stable temperatures, ranging between 65°F (18°C) and 75°F (24°C). It is sensitive to temperatures below 60°F (15°C) and can suffer cold damage from drafts or sudden drops. Consistent temperatures benefit its overall health and growth.
Repotting Your Calathea Rufibarba
Repot Calathea Rufibarba every one to two years, or when it becomes root-bound. Signs include roots circling drainage holes, soil drying faster, or growth stagnation. The best time for repotting is early spring, before the active growing season, to minimize stress and encourage re-establishment.
Choose a new pot only slightly larger, 1 to 2 inches wider. Gently remove the plant from its old pot, avoiding root damage. Place fresh, well-draining potting mix at the bottom, position the plant, and fill around the root ball, ensuring the same depth. Water thoroughly after repotting to settle the soil.
Propagating Calathea Rufibarba
The most effective method for propagating Calathea Rufibarba is by division, performed during spring repotting. This ensures each new plant has an established root system and existing foliage. It is not possible to propagate Calathea Rufibarba from stem or leaf cuttings in water.
To divide, carefully remove the plant from its pot and gently shake off excess soil. Look for natural divisions or clumps in the rhizomes. Gently separate these sections, ensuring each division has a portion of the root system and at least a few leaves or shoots. Plant each new division into its own pot with fresh potting mix, then water thoroughly. Place newly potted divisions in a warm, humid environment with indirect light to encourage establishment.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Brown leaf tips or edges are common, often indicating low humidity or a reaction to minerals and chlorine in tap water. Increase ambient humidity with a humidifier or pebble tray and use filtered or distilled water. If the issue persists, ensure the plant is not in a drafty area.
Curling leaves signal either underwatering or insufficient humidity. Ensure consistently moist soil and adequate humidity. Curling may also indicate cold exposure, so move the plant away from drafts or cold windows.
Yellowing leaves may point to overwatering, nutrient deficiencies, or natural aging. If overwatering is suspected, allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings and ensure proper drainage. Removing yellowed leaves helps the plant redirect energy to new growth.
Calathea Rufibarba can attract common houseplant pests like spider mites and mealybugs, especially when stressed by inadequate humidity. Spider mites often appear in dry conditions, while mealybugs can occur in overly humid areas without enough air circulation. Treat infestations with organic solutions like neem oil or insecticidal soap.