The Maui Queen Calathea is a striking houseplant with unique foliage. Its oblong, dark green leaves feature a creamy-white, feather-like pattern and a deep purple underside. Known as a “prayer plant,” its leaves fold slightly at night and unfold in the morning, a natural adaptation to maximize light absorption.
Maui Queen Calathea Care
Light Needs
The Maui Queen Calathea thrives in bright, indirect light, mimicking its natural dappled sunlight habitat. Place the plant near an east-facing window or a few feet from a south or west-facing window. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch delicate leaves and fade their patterns. Insufficient light leads to leggy growth and less pronounced leaf coloration.
Watering Practices
Maintain consistent soil moisture for the Maui Queen Calathea, but avoid waterlogging. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Water quality is important; tap water often contains minerals that can cause leaf tip browning. Use filtered, distilled, or collected rainwater to prevent sensitivity and mineral buildup.
Humidity Requirements
High humidity benefits the Maui Queen Calathea, reflecting its tropical origins. If your home’s air is dry, especially in winter, increase humidity. Use a room humidifier, place the pot on a pebble tray filled with water (not sitting directly in water), or group it with other plants. Misting offers temporary relief, but a light mist no more than once a week is suggested to avoid fungal issues.
Soil and Potting
A well-draining, moisture-retentive soil mix is suitable. Use a peat-based potting mix amended with perlite or orchid bark to improve aeration and drainage, preventing compaction and waterlogging. An acidic pH level around 6.5 is preferred for optimal growth.
Ideal Temperature
The Maui Queen Calathea prefers warm, stable temperatures, ideally between 65°F and 85°F (18°C and 29°C). Avoid sudden temperature drops and cold drafts. Consistent indoor temperature helps prevent plant stress.
Fertilizing Schedule
During the active growing season (spring and summer), fertilize the Maui Queen Calathea regularly. Apply a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer, diluted to half or one-quarter strength, every two to four weeks. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can cause root burn or browning leaf edges. Reduce or stop fertilization entirely during fall and winter when growth slows.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Dealing with Brown or Crispy Leaves
Brown or crispy leaf edges often indicate low humidity or a reaction to tap water minerals. Increase ambient moisture with a humidifier or pebble tray. Using filtered, distilled, or rainwater for watering can also prevent mineral buildup.
Understanding Curling Leaves
Curling leaves signal plant stress from insufficient watering, low humidity, or temperature extremes. Dry soil causes leaves to curl inwards to conserve moisture. Ensure consistent soil moisture and adequate humidity. Cold drafts or sudden temperature changes can also cause leaves to curl as the plant protects itself.
Managing Pests
Calatheas are susceptible to common houseplant pests like spider mites, especially in warm, dry conditions. Inspect the undersides of leaves regularly for early detection of tiny movements or fine webs. Wipe leaves with a damp cloth or use insecticidal soap to manage these pests.
Propagation and Repotting
How to Propagate
The most effective propagation method is division, typically performed in spring or summer during repotting. The plant grows from rhizomes, which are underground stems forming natural clumps. To propagate, carefully remove the plant from its pot, shake off excess soil to expose the root system, then separate natural divisions. Ensure each new section has healthy roots and at least one leaf.
When to Repot
Repot the Maui Queen Calathea every one to two years, or when it shows signs of being root-bound. Indications include roots growing from drainage holes, slowed growth, or more frequent watering needs. The best time for repotting is spring or early summer, during the plant’s active growing period. Choose a new container only one to two inches wider than the current one to prevent prolonged wet soil and root rot.
Pet Safety Information
The Maui Queen Calathea is non-toxic to both cats and dogs. This makes it a suitable choice for households with pets.