How to Grow and Care for Calathea Freddie

The Calathea Freddie (Goeppertia Freddie) is a popular houseplant often called a prayer plant, a name that refers to the daily movement of its leaves with the day-night cycle. Its standout feature is its light, silvery-green foliage marked with dark green stripes in a fishbone pattern. The long, oval-shaped leaves make this plant valued for its decorative appearance and ability to adapt to indoor environments.

Calathea Freddie Care Guide

Light

Proper lighting is a significant factor for a Calathea Freddie, which grows best in medium, indirect sunlight. Placing it near an east-facing window where it can receive gentle morning light is a good choice. While it can manage in lower light, direct sunlight should be avoided as it can scorch the leaves, causing them to burn or develop brown, crispy areas. The vibrant patterns on the leaves may also fade if the light is too intense.

Water

This plant is sensitive to chemicals and minerals in tap water, so using filtered, distilled, or rainwater is recommended. The soil should be kept consistently moist but never waterlogged. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, and ensure the pot has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape and prevent root rot.

Soil

A well-draining potting mix is important for the Calathea Freddie’s root system. An effective medium can be created by combining two parts peat or coir with one part perlite. This mixture holds adequate moisture while allowing excess water to drain, preventing the soil from becoming overly saturated.

Humidity & Temperature

As a tropical native, the Calathea Freddie flourishes in a humid environment, with levels around 60%. If your home’s air is dry, you can increase humidity by grouping it with other plants, placing it on a pebble tray with water, or using a humidifier. It prefers temperatures between 65 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit and should be kept away from drafts or sudden temperature fluctuations.

Fertilizer

To support growth during the spring and summer, feeding your Calathea Freddie is beneficial. Apply a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer, diluted to half-strength, about once a month. Avoid fertilizing during the fall and winter when the plant’s growth slows. Pour the fertilizer directly onto the soil to avoid contact with the leaves, which can cause burns.

Common Calathea Freddie Problems

Brown, Crispy Leaf Edges

One of the most frequent issues is the development of brown, crispy edges on the leaves. The primary causes are low humidity and the type of water used, as chemicals in tap water can build up in the soil. When the air is too dry, moisture is pulled from the leaves, causing the delicate edges to dry out. To remedy this, increase the ambient humidity by misting the leaves or placing the pot on a tray of pebbles and water. Switching to distilled or filtered water can prevent the mineral buildup that contributes to this problem.

Yellowing Leaves

Yellowing leaves on a Calathea Freddie are often a sign of overwatering and the potential onset of root rot. When the soil is kept too wet, roots are deprived of oxygen and can begin to decay, preventing them from absorbing water and nutrients. If you notice yellowing leaves, check the soil’s moisture and allow the top inch or two to dry out before watering again. If the problem persists, you may need to inspect the roots, trimming away any brown or mushy sections before repotting in fresh soil.

Pest Infestations

These plants can be susceptible to pests, with spider mites being a common issue. These tiny arachnids thrive in warm, dry conditions, contrary to the Calathea’s preferred humid environment. An infestation might first be noticed as fine webbing on the undersides of leaves or as stippling marks on the surface. Manage spider mites by increasing humidity and regularly wiping the leaves with a damp cloth. For persistent infestations, an insecticidal soap or neem oil solution can be applied to the foliage.

Propagating and Repotting

The most effective way to propagate a Calathea Freddie is through division during its regular repotting schedule in the spring or early summer. Repotting is needed every one to two years, or when the plant has become root-bound. To divide the plant, carefully remove it from its pot and gently shake off excess soil to expose the root ball. The plant grows from rhizomes, which can be separated into smaller clumps. Each new section should have a healthy portion of roots and a few leaves before being potted in a new container.

Calathea Freddie Pet Safety

For households with pets, plant toxicity is a primary concern. The Calathea Freddie is considered non-toxic to common household pets like cats and dogs. This makes it a suitable choice for plant lovers who also have furry companions sharing their indoor space. You can place this plant in accessible areas without worrying about your pets’ safety.