How to Grow and Care for Rose-Painted Calathea

The Rose-Painted Calathea, or Calathea roseopicta, is a striking houseplant celebrated for its decorative foliage. The large, round leaves feature a deep green base with feathered strokes of pink, cream, or white along the central vein. This top surface is contrasted by rich, deep purple undersides.

Native to the tropical rainforests of Brazil, this plant grows on the warm and humid jungle floor. The leaves also have a fascinating habit of rising and lowering with the day-night cycle, a movement known as nyctinasty, which has earned Calatheas the nickname “prayer plants.”

Rose-Painted Calathea Care

Light

Proper lighting is needed to maintain the vibrant leaf patterns of the Rose-Painted Calathea. This plant thrives in medium to bright, indirect sunlight. An ideal location is near an east-facing window that receives gentle morning sun or a few feet away from a more intense south or west-facing window. Direct sunlight must be avoided, as it will scorch the delicate leaves and cause the brilliant colors to fade.

Water

A consistent watering schedule is important for this plant, as it prefers soil that is kept evenly moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil begins to feel dry to the touch. After watering thoroughly, ensure any excess water is emptied from the saucer to prevent the roots from sitting in water, which can lead to root rot.

For best results, use filtered, distilled, or rainwater. If these options are not readily available, you can leave tap water out in an open container overnight to allow some of the chlorine to dissipate.

Soil

A peat-based potting mix is well-suited for the Rose-Painted Calathea. To enhance drainage and aeration, you can amend the mix with perlite or orchid bark. This type of mixture helps hold the moisture the plant enjoys without becoming overly saturated.

Temperature and Humidity

These plants prefer temperatures between 65°F and 80°F (18°C and 27°C) and should be protected from sudden temperature drops or cold drafts. Temperatures below 60°F (15°C) can cause damage to the foliage. High humidity levels of 60% or more are beneficial for keeping the leaves lush.

To increase the moisture in the air around your plant, you can use a room humidifier, group it with other plants, or place it on a pebble tray filled with water. A bathroom with a window often provides an excellent environment.

Fertilizer

During the growing season of spring and summer, the Rose-Painted Calathea benefits from regular feeding. Use a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer once a month, but dilute it to half the recommended strength to avoid fertilizer burn. Do not fertilize the plant during the fall and winter months, as its growth naturally slows down.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

The most frequent issue with Rose-Painted Calatheas is the development of crispy, brown leaf edges. This is a direct result of either low humidity or a reaction to minerals in tap water. To resolve this, increase the ambient moisture around the plant and switch to using filtered or distilled water.

If you observe the plant’s vibrant leaf patterns beginning to fade, the cause is too much direct sunlight. Relocating the plant to a spot with more filtered, indirect light will help it recover its deep coloration. Yellowing lower leaves are a symptom of overwatering, which can lead to root rot.

Pests, particularly spider mites, are attracted to the same dry conditions that Calatheas dislike. These can be managed by regularly wiping down the leaves with a damp cloth to increase humidity and physically remove them. If an infestation occurs, treating the plant with an insecticidal soap or neem oil is an effective measure.

Pruning and Propagation

Pruning a Rose-Painted Calathea is done for aesthetic reasons and to maintain plant health. If you notice leaves that have turned yellow or have significant browning, remove them. Use clean, sharp scissors to cut the entire leaf stem off at the base of the plant. This helps direct its energy toward new, healthy growth.

The most reliable method for propagating this plant is through division, best performed during repotting in spring or summer. This plant cannot be propagated from a leaf or stem cutting. To divide it, remove the plant from its pot and gently loosen the soil from the root ball.

Once the roots are exposed, you will see natural clumps of rhizomes that can be teased apart. Ensure each new division has a healthy portion of roots and a few leaves. Pot each new section into its own container with fresh soil, water it well, and keep it in a warm, humid location to recover.