Benefits of Having a Calathea Plant
Discover the rewarding and practical ways a Calathea plant contributes to your home, creating a more comfortable and dynamic living environment.
The Calathea genus includes a diverse group of tropical plants, often called “prayer plants,” that have become a favorite in many homes. Their popularity stems from their visually impressive foliage, which brings a touch of the tropics indoors. Beyond their ornamental qualities, these plants provide several tangible advantages for the people who care for them.
Improves Indoor Air Quality
One of the qualities of Calathea plants is their ability to enhance indoor air quality. These plants actively filter common household toxins from the atmosphere, contributing to a healthier living space. Their broad leaves are effective at capturing harmful particles and processing carbon dioxide into oxygen.
The process by which plants clean the air is known as phytoremediation. Calatheas absorb pollutants through tiny pores on their leaves, effectively trapping them. This helps to reduce the levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can be present in indoor environments. The large surface area of Calathea leaves makes them particularly efficient at this task.
Safe for Pets and Children
For households with pets and young children, plant selection requires careful consideration. Calathea plants are an excellent choice in this regard, as they are widely recognized as non-toxic. This provides peace of mind to plant owners with curious cats, dogs, or toddlers.
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) lists Calatheas as safe for pets. This means that accidental ingestion of a leaf is not expected to cause harm, eliminating a common worry associated with keeping houseplants.
Dynamic and Striking Foliage
The visual appeal of Calathea plants is due to their diverse foliage. The leaves display an array of patterns, from bold stripes and feathering to deep, rich colors like purple and green. Varieties such as the ‘Dottie’ with its pink accents or the ‘Medallion’ with its ornate green patterns offer a wide selection for any interior design preference.
A unique characteristic of Calathea plants is their daily leaf movement, a phenomenon known as nyctinasty. The leaves rise in the evening, resembling praying hands, and lower again in the morning with the return of daylight. This dynamic quality creates an engaging experience, as the plant visibly responds to the daily rhythm of its environment.
Natural Humidifier
Calathea plants act as natural humidifiers by releasing moisture into the air through a process called transpiration. Water is drawn up through the roots and evaporates from small pores on the undersides of their leaves. This function is beneficial in dry climates or during winter when heating systems reduce indoor humidity. The release of water vapor can help alleviate issues like dry skin and scratchy throats, and also benefits other nearby tropical plants that thrive in more humid conditions.