The Calathea White Star is a visually captivating houseplant, celebrated for its striking foliage. Its unique patterns and vibrant colors bring a touch of the tropics indoors, making it a popular choice for plant enthusiasts seeking to enhance their living spaces.
Getting to Know Your Calathea White Star
The Calathea White Star, scientifically known as Calathea majestica ‘White Star’ or Goeppertia majestica, is a cultivar prized for its distinct appearance. Its large, oval-shaped leaves feature a dark green base adorned with prominent white to cream pinstripes that extend from the central vein towards the margins. These elegant markings are beautifully contrasted by a rich purple underside, adding depth and visual interest to the plant.
Originating from the tropical rainforests of South America, specifically regions like Brazil, Ecuador, and Peru, this plant thrives in environments characterized by high humidity and indirect light.
The Calathea White Star exhibits a fascinating phenomenon called nyctinasty, where its leaves fold upwards at night, resembling praying hands, and then unfurl again with the morning light. This unique movement further adds to its allure as an indoor specimen.
Optimal Growing Conditions
Light
Calathea White Star plants flourish in bright, indirect light, mimicking their natural habitat beneath the dense canopy of rainforest trees. Placing them near a north or east-facing window, approximately 2 to 3 feet away, provides ideal conditions, allowing them to receive several hours of diffused light daily. Direct sunlight can be harmful, causing the vibrant white stripes on the leaves to fade or become bleached, and in severe cases, leading to scorched foliage. Conversely, too little light can result in discoloration and wilting of the leaves.
Watering
Consistent moisture is important for Calathea White Star, but the plant should never sit in soggy soil. Water when the top inch or two of the soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to yellowing leaves and root rot, while allowing the soil to dry out completely can cause leaves to droop or curl. Calatheas are sensitive to the minerals and chemicals often found in tap water, such as chlorine and fluoride, which can cause brown leaf edges. Using filtered, distilled, or rainwater at room temperature is recommended to prevent these issues.
Humidity
High humidity levels are important for the Calathea White Star due to its tropical origins. Ideally, humidity should be maintained between 50% to 60%, with some sources suggesting up to 70%. To increase humidity, consider using a humidifier, placing the plant on a pebble tray filled with water, or grouping it with other humidity-loving plants. Misting the leaves once or twice a week can also help, though it provides only a temporary boost.
Soil
The ideal soil mix for a Calathea White Star should be well-draining, aerated, and capable of retaining some moisture without becoming waterlogged. A blend that mimics the rich, organic matter of the rainforest floor is beneficial. A common recommendation is a mix comprising 50% potting soil, 20% orchid bark, 20% activated charcoal, and 10% vermiculite or perlite. Other suitable components include peat moss or coco coir, perlite, and aged bark, which ensure both drainage and moisture retention. The soil should also have a slightly acidic pH, around 6.0 to 6.5.
Temperature
Calathea White Star thrives in a consistent indoor temperature range, typically between 65°F and 77°F (18°C to 25°C). Maintaining stable temperatures is important, as these plants are sensitive to sudden fluctuations and cold drafts. Prolonged exposure to temperatures below 60°F (15°C) can lead to slow growth or even dormancy. It is advisable to keep the plant away from open windows, radiators, or air conditioning vents that can cause drafts.
Fertilizer
During the active growing season, typically from spring through summer, Calathea White Star benefits from regular fertilization. A balanced, water-soluble liquid fertilizer applied monthly is generally appropriate. It is important to dilute the fertilizer to half or even quarter strength, as Calathea roots are sensitive and can suffer from fertilizer burn or salt buildup. Fertilization should be reduced or stopped entirely during the fall and winter months when the plant’s growth naturally slows.
Addressing Common Challenges
Calathea White Star plants show signs when their environmental needs are not met, indicating issues. Yellowing leaves often indicate overwatering, especially if the soil remains soggy. Reduce watering frequency and ensure proper drainage.
If leaves curl, it often signals insufficient humidity, underwatering, or excessively cold conditions. Increase ambient humidity and check soil moisture levels. Brown edges or crispy tips are linked to low humidity or hard tap water. Switch to filtered or distilled water and use humidity-boosting methods.
Drooping leaves, particularly during the day, signal dry soil and a need for watering. However, persistent drooping can also be a symptom of overwatering or root rot, requiring a root system check for mushy or discolored roots. Faded leaf patterns indicate too much direct light; move the plant to a shadier location.
Maintaining and Expanding Your Collection
Repotting
Repotting the Calathea White Star is necessary when the plant outgrows its current container, typically every one to two years. Signs that a plant needs repotting include roots emerging from drainage holes, water draining too quickly, or stunted growth. The best time to repot is during early spring, just before the plant enters its active growing season, which allows it to recover quickly from the disturbance. When repotting, select a new pot that is only 1 to 2 inches larger in diameter than the previous one, as a pot that is too large can hold excess moisture and lead to root rot.
Propagation
Propagation of Calathea White Star is primarily achieved through division, which is often done during the repotting process. After carefully removing the plant from its pot and gently shaking off loose soil, identify natural divisions within the root ball, where stems cluster together. Gently separate these sections by hand, being mindful of the plant’s fragile roots. Each division should have a healthy portion of roots and at least two to seven leaves to ensure successful establishment. Plant each new division into its own pot with fresh, well-draining soil, water thoroughly, and place in a warm location with indirect light to allow it to acclimate and begin new growth.