Calathea rufibarba – Prayer Plant – 45cm

Calathea, or Zebra Plant, is a common house plant with stunning foliage that also makes a great terrarium plant, growing to approximately 60cm in height. It is relatively hardy species, native to tropical areas of the Americas, which is tolerant of a wide range of temperatures, humidity and light levels. It plant doesn’t require vast amounts of water or light but grows well when provided with such.

Ideal conditions for Calathea would be a temperature range of 18-24C, moderate to high humidity, moist soil and with bright, indirect light. Although tolerant, it is worth being aware of the following potential problems:

1. Leaves curling and spots: Your likely to have been under-watering your plant. Is the soil dry or has it been drying out frequently? This is easy to resolve by watering and being more consistent with keeping the soil moist at all times.
2. Leaf tips brown: Most likely cause here is dry air and lack of humidity. The solution is to increase humidity levels.
3. Leaves dropping: Again, the air could be too dry and the humidity may need to be increased.
4. Limp stems: You may have been over-watering the plant during the winter and providing low temperatures. Follow the above watering and temperature guidelines.

* These plants are generally renowned as safe to be eaten by reptiles, but please research to ensure they are suitable and safe for your specific species before use.