Calathea Musaica: How to Grow and Care for This Plant

The Calathea Musaica, or Network Plant, is known for its unique foliage. Its light green leaves are covered in a complex web of dark green lines that resemble an intricate mosaic. Native to the tropical rainforests of Brazil, it is part of the Marantaceae family. While related to “prayer plants,” its leaf movements are less pronounced. This plant is non-toxic, making it a suitable choice for households with pets and children.

Essential Care for Calathea Musaica

Light Requirements

Bright, indirect light is necessary to maintain the Calathea Musaica’s vibrant pattern, mimicking the dappled sunlight of the rainforest floor. An ideal location is near a window with a sheer curtain or an east-facing window that receives gentle morning sun. Too much direct sunlight will scorch the leaves, causing brown spots and faded patterns. Insufficient light can lead to diminished variegation and leggy growth.

Soil Composition

A well-draining and moisture-retentive soil mix is necessary for a Calathea Musaica. The soil needs to stay moist without becoming waterlogged, as the plant’s fine roots are susceptible to rot. A peat-based potting mix amended with perlite provides a good balance of moisture retention and aeration. You can create a suitable blend using equal parts peat moss, perlite, and standard potting soil.

Watering Practices

Water when the top inch of soil feels slightly dry to the touch, maintaining even moisture. These plants can be sensitive to minerals in tap water, such as fluoride, which may cause browning on the leaf edges. Using distilled, rainwater, or filtered water can prevent this issue. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot, a common problem for this species.

Temperature and Humidity Needs

Calathea Musaica prefers warm and humid conditions. The ideal temperature range is between 65 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit (18-27°C), and the plant should be kept away from drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations. To replicate the high humidity of its native habitat, you can:

• Place it in a naturally steamy room like a bathroom.
• Use a humidifier.
• Set the pot on a pebble tray filled with water.
• Group it with other tropical plants to create a more humid microenvironment.

Fertilization Guidelines

During the spring and summer growing season, apply a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half-strength monthly. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to a buildup of salts in the soil and damage the plant’s sensitive roots. Reduce feeding during the fall and winter when the plant’s growth slows.

Repotting Your Calathea Musaica

Repot your Calathea Musaica every one to two years, or when it becomes root-bound. Indications include roots emerging from the drainage holes, compacted soil, or a slowdown in growth. Select a new container that is only one to two inches larger in diameter than the current one to prevent the soil from staying wet for too long.

Gently remove the Calathea from its pot, taking care not to damage the root ball. Loosen the roots and place the plant into the new pot with fresh potting mix. After repotting, water the plant thoroughly to help the soil settle and place it back in its usual warm, humid location with indirect light.

Troubleshooting Common Calathea Musaica Problems

Crispy, brown leaf edges often point to low humidity or tap water with harsh minerals. Switching to filtered water and increasing humidity can resolve this. Yellowing leaves can be a sign of either overwatering or underwatering, so check the soil moisture before adjusting your watering schedule. Curled leaves indicate the plant is thirsty and needs more water or higher humidity. Pests such as spider mites and mealybugs can be managed by wiping the leaves with a damp cloth or applying a treatment like neem oil.

Propagating Calathea Musaica

The most effective way to propagate a Calathea Musaica is through division, best performed during repotting. This method involves separating the plant’s rhizomes, which are the underground stems from which roots and shoots grow. Carefully remove the plant from its pot and gently tease apart the root ball to identify natural clumps.

Once you have a division with its own roots and a few leaves, use a clean, sharp knife to separate it from the parent plant. Pot the new division in its own container with fresh potting mix, ensuring it sits at the same depth as before. Water the new plant well and keep it in a warm, humid environment to encourage it to establish itself.