Calathea Tricolor, also known as Stromanthe sanguinea ‘Triostar’ or Stromanthe Triostar, is a captivating indoor plant. Its vibrant, distinctive foliage and unique patterns make it a popular choice for adding exotic flair to any indoor space.
Identifying Calathea Tricolor
Calathea Tricolor stands out with remarkable leaf variegation. The top surface of its lance-shaped leaves displays a striking combination of deep green, bright pink or red, and creamy white markings. The underside of the leaves typically boasts a rich, purplish-pink hue. This plant belongs to the Marantaceae family, known for its “prayer-like” leaf movements, where leaves fold upwards at night and unfurl during the day. Indoors, Calathea Tricolor typically reaches about 30 centimeters in height and develops rhizomes.
Calathea Tricolor Care Guide
Light Requirements
Calathea Tricolor thrives in bright, indirect light conditions. Placing it in an area where it receives diffused sunlight is ideal, such as near a north or east-facing window. Direct sunlight should be avoided, as it can cause the leaves to burn or turn brown, leading to faded color intensity. Conversely, insufficient light can result in the plant’s colors becoming pale or losing their vibrancy. If natural light is limited, supplementing with full-spectrum artificial light can be beneficial.
Watering Needs
Maintaining consistently moist, but not waterlogged, soil is important for Calathea Tricolor. The frequency of watering can vary, often ranging from two to four times a week during warmer months and reducing to once a week or every ten days in winter. Before watering, checking the top inch of soil to ensure it feels dry can help prevent overwatering, which can lead to root rot. It is beneficial to use filtered, distilled, or rainwater, as these plants are sensitive to chlorine and mineral salts found in tap water, which can cause leaf edges to brown.
Humidity
High humidity is a significant requirement for Calathea Tricolor, mimicking its natural tropical habitat. Maintaining humidity levels between 50% and 60% is recommended. To increase humidity, consider using a humidifier, placing the plant on a pebble tray filled with water, or grouping it with other plants. Placing the plant in a naturally humid environment, such as a bathroom, can also be effective. Consistent high humidity also helps deter common pests that prefer drier conditions.
Soil and Potting
An airy, loose, and well-draining soil mix that also retains some moisture is suitable for Calathea Tricolor. A common mixture includes 50% coconut fiber or blond peat, 25% perlite, and 25% worm castings. This combination provides good aeration while ensuring the soil remains adequately moist without becoming waterlogged. Calathea Tricolor does not develop deep roots, so a wider, shallower pot is often preferred over a deep one. Ensuring the pot has drainage holes is essential to prevent water accumulation.
Temperature
Calathea Tricolor thrives in warm and stable temperatures, ideally between 18°C and 27°C (65°F and 80°F). It is sensitive to sudden temperature changes and cold drafts. Avoid placing the plant near open windows, air conditioners, heating vents, or radiators, especially during colder periods, to prevent temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
During its active growing season, typically spring and summer, Calathea Tricolor benefits from regular fertilization. A balanced liquid fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (e.g., 10-10-10 or 20-20-20) is recommended. It is advisable to dilute the fertilizer to half or even a quarter of the recommended strength and apply it every two to four weeks. Over-fertilization can harm the plant’s sensitive roots. Fertilizing should be reduced or stopped entirely during the fall and winter months when the plant enters a period of dormancy.
Repotting
Repotting Calathea Tricolor is necessary when its root system becomes crowded, typically every one and a half to two years. Signs that indicate a need for repotting include roots emerging from drainage holes or a noticeable slowdown in growth with yellowing or wilting foliage. The best time to repot is in early spring, just before the plant’s active growth period begins. When repotting, choose a new pot that is only one to two inches wider than the current one; a pot that is too large can lead to excessive moisture retention and potential root rot. Watering the plant the day before repotting can help ease the process.
Pests and Diseases
Calathea Tricolor is susceptible to pests, with spider mites being a common concern, especially in dry conditions.
Spider mites feed on plant sap, leading to discolored spots, wilting, and fine webbing on the undersides of leaves.
Mealybugs appear as small, white, cottony masses, infesting stems and leaf joints, sucking sap and causing yellowing leaves.
Scale insects, which look like small, hard bumps on stems and leaves, also feed on sap, weakening the plant.
Thrips, small winged insects, cause silvery streaks and leaf discoloration.
For treatment, isolate the affected plant to prevent spread. Manual removal of pests using a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or a gentle wipe with a damp cloth is effective for smaller infestations. Insecticidal soaps and neem oil are solutions for broader control, applied thoroughly to all leaf surfaces, including the undersides. Regular inspection of plants and appropriate humidity prevent pest outbreaks. Fungal issues like leaf spot or powdery mildew occur due to poor air circulation or overwatering; ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to prevent them.