Calathea Stella is a visually striking houseplant, cherished for its deep green, patterned leaves with vibrant lime green hues and delicate purple undersides. This hybrid offers greater resilience and easier care than the ‘White Fusion’ Calathea. As part of the Prayer Plant family, its leaves fold upwards at night and unfurl with morning light. Native to tropical regions, it brings exotic elegance indoors.
Calathea Stella Care Essentials
Calathea Stella thrives in bright, indirect light, mimicking its natural habitat beneath a tropical canopy. A north or east-facing window is ideal, as direct sunlight can scorch its delicate leaves and fade their vibrant patterns. While it adapts to lower light, extended dim conditions may result in less distinct markings and slower growth. Consistent light levels prevent stress and encourage healthy foliage.
Calathea Stella requires consistently moist soil, but avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot. Water when the top inch or two of soil feels slightly dry. Use filtered, distilled, or rainwater, as tap water’s chlorine, fluoride, and mineral buildup can cause leaf edges to brown. High humidity (50-70%) is important, achievable with a pebble tray, grouping plants, or a humidifier.
A well-draining potting mix that retains some moisture is suitable, often including peat moss, perlite, and orchid bark for aeration. Fertilize with a balanced, water-soluble houseplant fertilizer, diluted to half strength, every two to four weeks during the active growing season (spring and summer). Reduce or cease fertilization during fall and winter when growth naturally slows.
Calathea Stella prefers warm temperatures, ideally 65-80°F (18-27°C). It is sensitive to cold drafts and sudden fluctuations, which can stress the plant and damage leaves. Position your plant away from heating/cooling vents and drafty windows to maintain a stable environment and support its health.
Repotting Calathea Stella
Repotting Calathea Stella is necessary when it becomes root-bound, indicated by roots growing from drainage holes, becoming top-heavy, or a decreased growth rate. The best time to repot is during spring, just before its active growth phase.
Choose a pot one to two inches larger in diameter with drainage holes. Gently remove the plant, loosen compacted roots, and use fresh, well-draining potting mix. After placing the plant, backfill with soil, tamp lightly, and water thoroughly to settle.
Propagating Calathea Stella
Calathea Stella is primarily propagated through division, a method best performed during repotting in spring or early summer by separating a mature plant into smaller sections. Carefully remove the plant from its pot and gently shake off excess soil to expose the root ball.
Look for natural divisions with distinct clumps of stems and roots. Gently separate these sections by hand or, if needed, use clean, sharp shears to cut through rhizomes, ensuring each has roots and foliage. Pot each new section in fresh, well-draining soil, water immediately, and place in a warm location with bright, indirect light to help establishment.
Common Problems and Solutions
Curling or browning leaf edges and tips often indicate low humidity, inconsistent watering, or tap water mineral buildup. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist but not soggy, and use filtered or distilled water. Increase ambient humidity with pebble trays or a humidifier to alleviate these symptoms.
Yellowing leaves can signal overwatering, nutrient deficiency, or aging. If the soil is constantly saturated, allow it to dry slightly between waterings to prevent root rot. If over-fertilization is suspected, characterized by yellowing and browning tips, flush the soil with clean water.
Calathea Stella is susceptible to common houseplant pests, especially spider mites in dry conditions. Regularly inspect leaf undersides for tiny pests or webbing. If an infestation is detected, isolate the plant and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil, ensuring thorough coverage. Maintaining appropriate humidity helps deter spider mites.