How to Grow and Care for Calathea Anulque

The Calathea ‘Anulque’ is a distinctive houseplant prized for its ornamental foliage. Its large, deep green leaves are marked with striking, silvery-white bands that create a bold pattern. As a member of the Marantaceae family, it shares a characteristic with other “prayer plants”—the tendency for its leaves to rise and fold together at night and lower during the day. This behavior, known as nyctinasty, is controlled by changes in water pressure at the base of the leaf stalks. While sought after for its beauty, it presents a moderate challenge for indoor gardeners and is non-toxic to pets and children.

Calathea Anulque Care

Light

Calathea Anulque flourishes in medium to bright, indirect sunlight, mimicking the dappled light of a tropical rainforest floor. Placing the plant a few feet from an east-facing window is often ideal, providing gentle morning sun without the harsh intensity of afternoon rays. Direct sun exposure will scorch the leaves, causing brown spots and bleaching the vibrant patterns. Insufficient light can lead to stunted growth and cause the silvery-white bands to fade. To ensure even growth, it is beneficial to rotate the plant periodically.

Water

This plant requires its soil to remain consistently moist but never waterlogged. A reliable method is to water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. This frequency will vary based on light, temperature, and humidity levels in your home. The type of water used is a significant factor, as tap water often contains minerals like chlorine and fluoride. This mineral accumulation can cause the leaf tips and edges to turn brown and crispy, so using filtered, distilled, or collected rainwater is strongly recommended.

Soil

A well-draining, peat-based potting mix is suitable for Calathea Anulque. An effective blend can be created by mixing standard potting soil with materials that improve aeration and drainage, such as perlite and orchid bark. This combination helps the soil hold enough moisture for the plant’s needs without becoming overly saturated. A mix combining peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite can also create an ideal growing medium, as it stays light and airy. The goal is to use a substrate that supports consistent moisture while protecting it from standing water.

Temperature and Humidity

Originating from tropical environments, Calathea Anulque thrives in warm and humid conditions. The plant prefers stable temperatures between 65°F and 85°F (18°C to 29°C). It is sensitive to cold, so temperatures should not drop below 60°F (15°C), and the plant should be kept away from drafts, air conditioners, and heating vents. High humidity is an important environmental factor for this plant, and levels should be maintained at 60% or higher. This can be achieved by using a room humidifier, placing the plant on a pebble tray filled with water, or grouping it with other plants.

Fertilizer

To support its growth during the spring and summer, the Calathea Anulque benefits from regular feeding. A balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half-strength, should be applied on a monthly basis. Fertilizing should be reduced or stopped entirely during the fall and winter when the plant’s growth naturally slows. Over-fertilizing can lead to a buildup of salts in the soil that can burn the plant’s sensitive roots, so always apply fertilizer to moist soil.

Repotting and Propagation

Repotting becomes necessary when a Calathea Anulque outgrows its container, typically every one to two years. Signs that a plant is root-bound include roots emerging from the drainage holes, slowed growth, or the soil drying out much faster than usual. The best time to repot is during the spring or early summer. When repotting, select a new pot that is only one to two inches larger in diameter than the current one. Gently place it in the new pot with a fresh soil mix, ensuring the plant sits at the same depth it did previously.

This process also presents the perfect opportunity for propagation through division. As you remove the plant from its pot, you can gently separate the root ball and rhizomes into smaller sections. Use your fingers or a clean knife to divide the clumps, making sure each new section has a healthy set of roots and at least one stem with leaves. Pot each division into its own container with fresh soil, and keep the new plants in a warm, humid spot until they show signs of active growth.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you notice the edges of the leaves becoming crispy and brown, the cause is often low humidity or mineral buildup from tap water. Increasing ambient moisture or switching to distilled or rainwater can help prevent this issue from worsening on new growth. Yellowing leaves are another frequent concern. If lower leaves are turning yellow and the soil is consistently damp, it is a sign of overwatering. Conversely, curling leaves combined with dry soil indicate the plant is underwatered.

These plants are particularly susceptible to spider mites, especially in dry conditions. These tiny pests can be identified by fine webbing on the undersides of leaves and a stippled, unhealthy appearance of the foliage. To manage an infestation, regularly wipe down the leaves with a damp cloth. For persistent issues, treat the plant with a natural pesticide like neem oil or an insecticidal soap, ensuring thorough coverage.