Boosting the attractiveness of many indoors, Rose Painted Calathea is one of the stunning plants among other species. Aside from its bringing the genuine Latina breeze into homes, it has outstanding look indeed. This awesome plant has a few names changing from culture to culture. One of the most common of that is Chalathe Medallion. And, its scientific name is Calathea Roseopicta. Also, it is native to Brazil. Besides, this houseplant has a remarkable resemblance with Peacock Plant.
General information
Rose Painted Calathea generally features curvy round multi-colored foliage with aesthetic patterns and a lot of stems emerging from the soil. Specifically, the underside of some varieties’ leaves is purplish. That’s why it is called “Rose Painted Calathea”. Also, this houseplant has an insignificant tiny flower blooming in summer. These flowers display themselves rarely under room conditions. In terms of the life cycle, this evergreen plant is a perennial just like Aluminum Plant. What’s more, this houseplant is a kind of prayer-plants such as Rattlesnake Plant and Pin Stripe Calathea. When it comes to its length, this plant can grow up to 50 inches (20 cm). Importantly, the medallion plant doesn’t bear any toxicity to affect pets badly. For that reason, they can be free to hang around the plant.
How to Care for Calathea Roseopicta
Sunlight: Indirect and bright sunlight helps Rose Painted Calathea thrive best. Therefore, semi-shade spots and west-facing window sills are ideal places.
Watering: This houseplant needs weekly waterings. I mean you should water the plant when the topsoil starts drying. Importantly, such plants are vulnerable to tap water due to containing chemicals. So you should top up the plant with any bottled water.
Humidity: The medallion plant prefers high humidity because of Brazil-originated. To increase the amount of humidity indoors, humidifiers, wet pebble trays, and water sprays (for misting) may work.
Temperature: In-between 60°F – 75°F (15,5°C – 24°C) would be the optimal temperature for the medallion plant. However, below 60°F conditions may give damage to this houseplant. According to the USDA plant hardiness map, zones 11-15 are ideal for outdoor growing.
Soil Type: A peat-based potting soil would work. Also, the soil should be well-draining. These kinds of soil can be found in the market as well as made at home.
Fertilizer: Provided applied twice a month in the growing season, water-soluble fertilizers accelerate the development of Rose Painted Calathea.
Propagation: The division will be the proper way for propagating this houseplant. According to the expected time of rooting, each clump will grow in a month.
Repotting: Spring is the ideal time for repotting and propagation. But keep in mind the plant should be watered the day before repotting. Otherwise, the plant can experience the transplant shock. Also, the next pot should be larger than the existing one. For example, you can use terracotta pot for that.
Common Problems
Brown leaf tips and edges: Direct and intense sunlight scorches leaves. Unless the proper conditions of the plant in question are ensured, the plant dies in a short time.
Yellowish leaves: This problem stems from insufficient nutrients and overwatering or insufficient watering.
Pest infestation: Poor conditions such as dry soil invites pests. For example, aphids, mites, scales, red spiders, and so on destroy the plant over time.
Suggestions for problems: Brown leaves block the plant’s beauty displays. So pinch off the brown parts. And find an ideal spot for this houseplant. Then go on its regular care. On the other hand, yellowish pale leaves pose an unhealthy look. To prevent this problem, first of all, check the plant’s root is alive or not. If everything is ok, go on its routine care. When it comes to coping with bugs, you may use neem oil, alcohol-based wipes, and pesticide soaps.
