The Calathea Tessellata, also known as “Tessellated Calathea” or “Calathea Mosaic,” is a popular houseplant. It is celebrated for its distinctive foliage, which features intricate, mosaic-like patterns.
Calathea Tessellata Care
Calathea Tessellata thrives when its environmental needs mimic its natural tropical habitat. Meeting these conditions ensures healthy growth and vibrant foliage.
Light Requirements
Calathea Tessellata prefers bright, indirect light, mimicking the dappled sunlight found under a tree canopy. A north or east-facing window provides suitable light. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch delicate leaves, causing them to fade or develop brown spots.
Watering Schedule
Maintain consistently moist, but not waterlogged, soil. Water when the top one to two inches of soil feel dry. Calatheas are sensitive to chemicals like chlorine and fluoride found in municipal water, so filtered, distilled, or rainwater is preferred.
Humidity Needs
Calathea Tessellata requires high humidity, as these plants originate from tropical rainforests. Maintain humidity levels of 50% or higher. To increase humidity, use a pebble tray, a room humidifier, or group the plant with other houseplants. Placing it in a naturally humid room, like a bathroom, can also be beneficial.
Soil and Potting
An ideal soil mix for Calathea Tessellata is well-draining yet moisture-retentive. A blend of peat moss or coco coir for moisture retention, combined with perlite, sand, or orchid bark for drainage, works well. The pot must have drainage holes to prevent root rot.
Temperature
Calathea Tessellata prefers warm temperatures, between 65°F to 85°F (18°C to 29°C). Protect the plant from temperatures below 60°F (15°C), as colder conditions harm the foliage. Avoid cold drafts from windows, doors, or air conditioning vents to prevent temperature stress.
Fertilizing
During the spring and summer growing season, Calathea Tessellata benefits from regular fertilization. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer, such as a 20-20-20 NPK ratio, diluted to half strength. Fertilize approximately every four weeks during this period, reducing frequency to every eight to twelve weeks in fall and winter when growth slows. Organic options like worm castings can also be used.
Common Issues and Solutions
Brown Leaf Tips
Brown or crispy leaf tips often indicate low humidity or inconsistent watering. Increase ambient humidity and ensure proper watering practices.
Curling Leaves
Leaves curling inwards are a sign of underwatering, indicating the plant is conserving moisture. Low humidity or exposure to temperature extremes, like cold drafts or excessive heat, can also cause leaves to curl. Ensure consistent soil moisture and a stable, warm environment to prevent this.
Pest Management
Calathea Tessellata can be susceptible to common houseplant pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. Spider mites thrive in dry conditions. Regularly inspect the plant’s leaves, especially the undersides, for early detection. Organic pest control methods, such as neem oil spray or insecticidal soap, are effective in managing infestations.
Repotting Your Plant
Repotting Calathea Tessellata is necessary every two to three years, or when the plant becomes root-bound. The best time to repot is during spring or early summer, allowing the plant to recover and establish itself.
When repotting, select a new pot only one to two inches larger than the current root ball. Gently remove the plant, inspect the roots for any signs of rot, and place it in the new pot with fresh potting mix. After repotting, water the plant thoroughly to help settle the soil.