The Musaica Calathea, often recognized by its common names “Network Plant” or “Calathea Network,” is a captivating houseplant celebrated for its striking foliage. Its distinct leaves feature an intricate mosaic-like pattern of dark and light green, creating a visually compelling grid-like appearance. This unique pattern and glossy, textured surface make it a popular choice for indoor spaces. The undersides of its leaves often display a rich burgundy or reddish-brown hue, adding further contrast.
Musaica Calathea Care
Light Needs
Musaica Calathea thrives in bright, indirect light, mimicking its natural habitat on the rainforest floor where it receives dappled sunlight. Placing it near an east-facing window or a south or west-facing window with sheer curtains is ideal. Direct, intense sunlight can scorch leaves and fade the intricate patterns. Insufficient light can cause slow soil drying, yellowing, or drooping leaves. Adequate bright, indirect light maintains pattern vibrancy and promotes healthier growth.
Watering
Consistent moisture is important, but avoid waterlogging the soil. The plant prefers consistently moist soil; allow the top inch or two to dry slightly before watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot and yellowing leaves, while underwatering can cause leaves to curl and dry out. Use filtered, distilled, or rainwater, as Calatheas are sensitive to tap water minerals like chlorine and fluoride, which can cause brown leaf tips. Ensure the pot drains completely after watering to prevent root rot.
Humidity Requirements
These tropical plants require high humidity, ideally 50-80%, with 60% being optimal. Low humidity often causes brown leaf tips and edges. Increase humidity by using a pebble tray, a humidifier, or grouping plants. Placing the plant in a bright, steamy bathroom can also provide a suitable humid environment.
Soil and Potting
A well-draining, moisture-retentive potting mix is suitable for Musaica Calathea. A peat-based mix with perlite or vermiculite enhances drainage. The mix should hold moisture but drain freely to prevent sogginess. While the plant tolerates being somewhat root-bound, choose a pot size that allows adequate drainage.
Temperature
Musaica Calathea thrives in warm, stable temperatures, typically ranging from 65°F (18°C) to 85°F (30°C). Temperatures should not drop below 60°F (15°C), as this can stop growth and damage foliage. Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations and cold drafts, which can damage the plant, leading to browning or withering leaves. Keep the plant away from direct heat sources like radiators or heating vents, which can dry out or scorch the leaves.
Fertilizing
As a relatively slow grower, Musaica Calathea does not require heavy fertilization. During spring and summer, apply a gentle, diluted liquid houseplant fertilizer every few weeks or monthly. Over-fertilizing can lead to salt buildup in the soil and potentially burn the plant’s delicate roots. Reduce or cease fertilization during fall and winter when growth slows.
Common Issues and Solutions
Leaf Problems
Browning edges or tips on Musaica Calathea leaves are often a sign of low humidity or the presence of minerals like fluoride in tap water. Increasing ambient humidity through humidifiers or pebble trays and using filtered or distilled water can help. Curling leaves indicate underwatering or insufficient humidity, signaling a need for consistent moisture. Fading leaf patterns suggest too little light; move to brighter, indirect light to restore vibrancy. Yellowing leaves can point to overwatering or excessive direct sunlight.
Pests
Musaica Calathea can attract common pests, especially if environmental conditions are not ideal. Spider mites are a frequent concern, particularly in dry conditions, and can cause yellowing or speckled leaves. Increasing humidity and regularly wiping down leaves can help deter them; insecticidal soap or neem oil can be used for severe infestations. Mealybugs, appearing as white, cottony masses, tend to cluster in leaf axils and on undersides, weakening the plant by sucking sap. They can be removed with alcohol-dipped cotton swabs or treated with neem oil. Fungus gnats may appear if the soil remains consistently moist in low-light conditions, and can be managed with sticky traps or by allowing the topsoil to dry more thoroughly between waterings.
Diseases
While Musaica Calathea is generally resistant to major diseases, prolonged high humidity combined with poor air circulation can increase the risk of fungal or bacterial issues. Maintaining good airflow around the plant and avoiding excessively thick foliage can help prevent these problems. If fungal growth is observed, ensuring proper ventilation and adjusting watering practices to prevent overly wet conditions can be beneficial.
Propagating Musaica Calathea
Propagating Musaica Calathea is most effectively done through division, separating a portion of the plant with its own roots and foliage. The best time to propagate is late spring, during active growth, allowing new divisions to establish readily. Carefully remove the plant from its pot and gently tease apart the root ball to identify natural divisions. Ensure each section has a healthy root cluster and at least one or two shoots. Pot each division in a separate container using a suitable, well-draining potting mix, making sure it sits at the same depth as the parent plant. After potting, water the new plants thoroughly to settle the soil and place them in a warm, humid spot with indirect light to aid recovery and encourage new growth.
Repotting Musaica Calathea
Musaica Calathea does not require frequent repotting, typically benefiting from a new pot every 2-3 years. Signs a plant needs repotting include being severely root-bound (roots circling or emerging from drainage holes) or compacted soil that no longer drains effectively. The ideal time for repotting is early spring, before active growth, to minimize stress and promote quicker recovery. When repotting, select a pot that is only one size larger than the current one to prevent excess moisture retention. Gently remove the plant, loosen old soil from the root ball without disturbing roots, and transfer to the new pot with fresh, well-draining potting mix. After repotting, water the plant thoroughly and allow it a week or two to adjust to its new environment.