Common Name: Calathea Freddie
Botanical Name: Calathea concinna
This Prayer Plant will grab your attention. It's hard to look away once you set your eyes on it because it has a way of changing its color over time, evolving from vibrant magenta to rich purple, depending on the light it receives. The large foliage and its dense form make Calathea Freddie worth providing the extra humidity it needs to flourish. Learn how to care for and grow Calathea Freddie!
Light
Calathea Freddie can handle low light, but increased light can help maintain the vivid colors and patterns on the foliage. Aim to have your Calathea Freddie receive 4-6 hours of indirect sunlight daily as this will help it develop into a full and dense plant! Direct sunlight is damaging to the leaves and may cause them to burn.
Water
Calathea concinna needs to be consistently watered. Thoroughly water these indoor plants when the top inch of the soil is dry letting the soil partially dry out before you water it again. Calathea Freddie houseplants do best in well-draining soil and in containers with drainage.
The type of water used can make a difference when it comes to watering prayer-plants. Tap water may contain different minerals or compounds that can be damaging to the leaves. Brown edges along the leaves can be an indication that the water is high in salt or contains chlorine, chloramine, bromide, or fluoride. Use filtered or distilled water, or water collected from a dehumidifier if you suspect tap water is not suitable for your Calathea Freddie.
Soil
Potting soil that is rich in nutrients and organic matter, but still can drain well, is the perfect growing medium for all geoppertia species. Most coco coir or peat-based potting soil mixes will be adequate but make sure that they do not contain water-retentive crystals as they can cause the soil to stay moist, causing root rot continually. If you are feeling adventurous, try creating your own potting soil!
Temperature
Average room temperature above 65°F is acceptable, but these indoor plants won't mind if it gets warmer and the temperature creeps closer to 85°F. Avoid placing Calathea Freddie plants near exterior doors, drafty windows, and vents, particularly during the colder months. Make sure to avoid placement near heating vents during the warmer months.
Humidity
Above-average humidity is ideal for Calathea Freddie. The leaves may begin to curl, or the edges will turn brown and dry out if the air is too dry. Calatheas do well in a kitchen, bathroom, or any area with extra moisture in the air. Using a humidifier or a pebble tray with water can help give Calathea Freddie the extra dampness they crave. Learn how to increase the humidity in the air around your indoor plants!
Fertilizer
Don’t starve Calathea Freddie! A complete liquid fertilizer diluted to half-strength is a good option. When re-potting, you can also amend the soil with worm castings or any slow-release organic compost. Calathea Freddie will benefit from being fertilized during the growing season every two weeks until they stop actively growing new foliage. These indoor plants should not be fertilized during the colder months when the plant is dormant.
Growth Rate
Calathea Freddie is a medium grower and can reach a height of 2’+ and an equal width.
Pet Friend or Foe
Calathea Freddie is non-toxic to pets. Friend!
Pro Tips
- Calathea Freddie is a moisture-loving indoor plant, but over-watering is still a concern and can introduce a host of problems. Make sure the plants receive lots of bright indirect light to help naturally dry out the soil before its next watering.
- If you notice the leaves are starting to droop, it is time to water the soil!
- Calathea Freddie can only be propagated through division. These plants naturally propagate themselves by expanding their root system and sending new shoots up through the soil. When a mature plant is re-potted, gently separate the roots to divide the main plant into several smaller plants.
- If you are having trouble finding the best lighting for your calathea, read this article on deciphering light levels for indoor plants!