How to Grow and Care for the Eclipse Plant

The Calathea roseopicta ‘Eclipse’ is a distinctive houseplant known for its impressive foliage. The large, deep green leaves are nearly black and feature a prominent, contrasting border of pinkish-white. As a member of the prayer plant family, its leaves fold upwards at night, resembling praying hands, and lower again during the day. The undersides of the leaves have a rich, purplish-red hue, adding to its ornamental appeal.

Essential Care Requirements

Proper lighting is important for maintaining the vibrant coloring of the Eclipse plant. It thrives in bright, indirect sunlight, such as near a window with a sheer curtain or in a well-lit room away from direct sun. Direct sun exposure should be avoided as it can scorch the leaves and cause the colors to fade. A spot with partial morning sun followed by afternoon shade can also be suitable.

This Calathea requires the soil to be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. It is sensitive to minerals and chemicals in tap water, so using distilled, rainwater, or filtered water is highly recommended. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, and ensure the pot has adequate drainage to prevent root rot.

A well-draining potting mix is necessary to avoid waterlogging. Many standard indoor potting mixes work well, especially those amended with materials like perlite or orchid bark to improve aeration. The goal is to create a substrate that holds enough moisture for the roots to access while allowing excess water to escape freely.

High humidity is important for keeping the foliage lush. Placing the plant in a naturally humid room like a bathroom, grouping it with other plants, or using a humidifier can help maintain the necessary moisture in the air. Ideal temperatures range from 18°C to 27°C, and it is best to protect the plant from sudden temperature fluctuations and cold drafts.

During the growing season of spring and summer, the Eclipse plant benefits from regular feeding. A balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half-strength, can be applied every four weeks to encourage healthy growth. Reduce feeding during the fall and winter months when the plant’s growth naturally slows.

Repotting and Propagation

Repotting should be done every one to two years, or when you observe that the plant has become root-bound with roots growing through the drainage holes. Spring is the optimal time for repotting as the plant is entering its active growth period. Select a new pot that is only slightly larger in diameter than the current one to avoid excess soil that can retain too much water.

When you repot, gently remove the plant from its current container, being careful not to damage the root ball. Inspect the roots for any signs of rot and trim away unhealthy sections with clean shears. Place a layer of fresh, well-draining potting mix in the new pot, position the plant in the center, and fill in the surrounding space with more soil. Water the plant thoroughly after repotting to help it settle.

Propagation of the Eclipse plant is most successfully achieved through division, a process conveniently performed during repotting. The root system is composed of rhizomes, which are underground plant stems that produce roots and shoots. These can be gently separated to create new, independent plants.

To divide the plant, carefully tease apart the root ball, ensuring that each new section has a healthy portion of roots and at least a few leaves. If the rhizomes are tough, you may need to use a clean, sharp knife to make a cut. Plant each new division in its own appropriately sized pot with fresh potting mix. Keep the new plants in a warm, humid location and maintain consistent moisture as they establish.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One of the most frequent problems is the development of crispy, brown leaf edges. The primary causes are low humidity and the use of tap water that contains minerals, chlorine, or fluoride. To resolve this, increase the ambient humidity around the plant and switch to using distilled, filtered, or rainwater for irrigation.

Yellowing leaves are often a sign of overwatering. If you notice leaves turning yellow, check the soil’s moisture level. Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out before watering again, and ensure your pot has sufficient drainage to let excess water escape.

Pests can sometimes be an issue, with spider mites being a common problem for Calatheas. These tiny pests thrive in dry conditions and can be identified by fine webbing on the undersides of leaves or a stippled appearance on the foliage. To combat spider mites, you can wipe the leaves with a damp cloth or spray the plant with a mixture of water and mild dish soap. For persistent infestations, insecticidal soap or neem oil can be effective.

Pet Safety and Toxicity

For households with pets, the safety of houseplants is a concern. The Calathea roseopicta ‘Eclipse’ is considered non-toxic to both cats and dogs. This makes it a safe option for pet owners who wish to add greenery to their homes without posing a risk to their furry companions. An accidental nibble from a curious pet is not a cause for alarm.