The Calathea ‘Surprise Star’ is a captivating houseplant admired for its distinct and vibrant foliage. Its leaves showcase a striking palette of deep green and burgundy, intricately patterned with bold pink margins and central strokes. This creates a visually dramatic effect, making it a popular choice for adding tropical elegance to indoor spaces.
Calathea Surprise Star Care
Light
Calathea Surprise Star thrives in bright, indirect light, mimicking its natural rainforest habitat. Place the plant in an east, south, or west-facing window, slightly away from direct sun. Direct sunlight can scorch its delicate leaves, fading patterns and causing permanent damage. Filtered light, such as through a sheer curtain, helps diffuse intense sunbeams and protects the foliage.
Water
Consistent soil moisture is important for Calathea Surprise Star, but avoid waterlogging. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry. It is sensitive to chemicals like fluoride and chlorine in tap water, which can cause leaf tips to brown. Use distilled, filtered, or rainwater to prevent this issue. Ensure proper drainage by emptying excess water from the saucer after watering to prevent root rot.
Humidity
High humidity is essential for Calathea Surprise Star, as it originates from tropical environments. Aim for humidity above 50%, ideally 60-80%. Increase humidity by placing the plant on a pebble tray (ensuring the pot doesn’t sit in water), grouping it with other plants, or using a room humidifier. Regular misting is also effective.
Soil and Potting
A well-draining, moisture-retentive potting mix is suitable for Calathea Surprise Star. An ideal mix includes peat moss, perlite, and bark for aeration, drainage, and moisture retention. The soil should also be rich in organic matter and slightly acidic. Choose a pot with ample drainage holes to prevent water accumulation. Unglazed clay pots help evaporate excess moisture, while plastic pots retain moisture longer.
Temperature
Calathea Surprise Star prefers warm, stable indoor temperatures, between 18 to 23 degrees Celsius (64 to 73 degrees Fahrenheit). It does not tolerate temperatures below 15 degrees Celsius (60 degrees Fahrenheit). Protect your plant from sudden temperature fluctuations and cold drafts, which stress the plant. Place it away from heating or cooling vents to maintain a consistent environment.
Fertilizing
During its active growing season in spring and summer, Calathea Surprise Star benefits from regular fertilization. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to about 25% strength, once or twice a month. Over-fertilization can lead to brown leaf tips, so avoid excessive application. Reduce or stop fertilizing entirely during fall and winter when the plant’s growth naturally slows.
Propagating Calathea Surprise Star
Propagating Calathea Surprise Star is best achieved through division in spring or early summer, when the plant is actively growing. This method is ideal when repotting a mature, healthy plant at least two years old. Water the plant thoroughly a day or two before dividing.
Carefully remove the plant from its pot and gently tease apart the root ball. Identify natural clumps, ensuring each division has a portion of the root system and several leaves. Use a clean, sharp knife if necessary to separate rhizomes. Plant each new section into its own pot with fresh potting mix at the original depth. Water the newly potted divisions well and maintain high humidity and consistent moisture for establishment.
Repotting Calathea Surprise Star
Repot Calathea Surprise Star every one to two years, or when it shows signs of being root-bound, such as roots emerging from drainage holes or circling the soil surface. The best time for repotting is early spring, just before active growth, allowing for quick recovery.
Water the plant the day before repotting to moisten the soil. Gently remove it from its current pot. Select a new pot one to two inches larger in diameter with drainage holes.
Add a layer of fresh, well-draining potting mix to the bottom, then carefully center the plant. Fill the remaining space with new soil, gently patting it down. Water lightly after repotting to help the soil settle and encourage new root growth.
Common Problems and Solutions
Calathea Surprise Star may show common issues, signaling specific care adjustments. Browning leaf tips or edges often result from low humidity or mineral buildup from tap water. Increase ambient humidity with a humidifier or pebble tray, and use distilled or filtered water to resolve this. Curling leaves indicate insufficient watering or low humidity; ensure consistently moist soil and boost humidity.
Limp or drooping stems, especially with wet soil, often indicate overwatering and potential root rot. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings and ensure excellent drainage. If root rot is suspected, repot into fresh, dry soil and remove any mushy roots.
Common pests include spider mites, which cause speckled or yellowing leaves with fine webbing. Mealybugs and scale insects may also appear, feeding on plant sap. Treat spider mites by increasing humidity, wiping leaves, and applying insecticidal soap or diluted neem oil. For other pests, isolate the plant and treat with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.