Let’s drive you through better insights into this plant!

About Calathea Zebrina

The prominent Zebra-like stripes on the foliage are the reason for the plant’s thoughtful “Calathea Zebrina” name. A fusion of dark green shade on the front, deep red on the back, and lime green stripes on the leaves combine to develop a unique and striking appearance. The plant can grow about 3 feet in length and furl its dense leaves in equal dimensions.

Benefits of having Calathea Zebrina

1. The unique Leaf movement

One of the very unique characteristics of Calathea Zebrina is its foliage having a wonderful movement in response to the day-night cycle. The stems turn together to fold the leaves upward during the nighttime and furl horizontally again when the sun rises in the morning. This mesmerising phenomenon is perfect to bring nature’s innovation to your home. 

2. Gentle expansion

Unlike most usual plants, Calathea Zebrina does not grow aggressively. It has gradual growth habits that make it easy for the carers to maintain bushy clusters of foliage. Due to this reason, it would not demand repotting frequently. 

3. The Zebra Pattern

If you ask what makes this plant superior over the others, it sure is its extremely gorgeous zebra pattern having a balanced blend of different shades and patterns. Having your fingers going through the textured leaves provides a tactile experience.

4. Less demanding care routine

This houseplant does not seek challenging maintenance and thrives with minimal care. Its resilience and adaptability make it a great green addition for plant enthusiasts whether experienced or beginners.

How To Care for and Maintain Calathea Zebrina

1. Be Cautious of Direct Sunlight

Calathea Zebrina keeps its leafy brilliance and freshness alive with indirect or filtered sunlight. Being sensitive to direct sunlight, the plant’s foliage may burn or discolour with exposure to intense heat. Make sure you are positioning this plant in a bright room offering indirect sunlight, or create filters using curtains or blinds.

2. Maintaining moisture

When it comes to watering requirements, Calathea zebrina prefers being moist. Underwatering is a more concerning factor than overwatering when caring for this leafy beauty, however, balanced moisture is always the key to its constant growth. Make sure that the soil is moist throughout the summer season, without overwatering. This moisture must be maintained in the winter season also, with less frequent watering.

3. Humidity seeker

Just like every other tropical plant, Calathea zebrina desires a humid environment resembling its native forest habitat. You can fulfil this demand of the plant by often misting its textured blades with water or placing a water-filled container nearby.

4. The signs indicating problematic growth

Though the plant is not prone to usual pests and diseases, there might be some chances when it undergoes insect infestation such as mealybugs, scale, and spider Mites. It may also catch diseases such as cucumber mosaic virus and Helminthosporium leaf spot. You can alleviate insect-related problems by using organic insecticidal soap or neem oil. While addressing diseases like cucumber mosaic virus or Helminthosporium leaf spot, remove affected leaves and apply appropriate treatments or fungicides.