Summer days are indeed the time to celebrate nature's brilliance in it's full glory, and the reason why Boma's July indoor plant of the month is Calathea. Revered for their captivating beauty and intricate patterns, Calatheas are a testament to nature’s genius and masterpiece artistry. It makes you wonder sometimes if someone is just showing off. These stunning plants, often likened to living works of art, originate from the lush, tropical forests of South America, where they thrive under the canopies of towering trees.
The Cultural Legacy of Calathea
Calatheas are more than just visually striking; they carry a rich cultural heritage. In many South American cultures, these plants are symbols of spiritual significance and natural beauty. The intricate patterns on their leaves are believed to represent the complexity and interconnectedness of life. In ancient Greek mythology, Calathea flowers were associated with Hera, the goddess of marriage and fertility, and were used in wedding ceremonies to bless the union with good fortune and fertility.
Known as “prayer plants” due to their unique behavior of folding their leaves at night, Calatheas embody a sense of serenity and mindfulness. This nightly ritual, reminiscent of hands clasped in prayer, symbolizes protection and conservation of energy. This characteristic not only adds to their charm but also highlights their adaptability and resilience.
The Allure of Calathea Varieties
At Boma Garden, we offer a selection of Calathea varieties, each with its unique allure:
- Makoyana: Known as the Peacock Plant, its leaves feature bold spots and stripes, resembling a peacock’s feathers.
- Vittata: Characterized by its bright green leaves with striking white stripes, adding a touch of elegance to any space.
- Freddie: Displays elongated leaves with dark green patterns, ideal for low-light conditions.
- Insigne: Showcases lance-shaped leaves with rich green hues and intricate patterns.
- Medallion: Features round leaves with a painterly mix of dark green and light patches, perfect for creating a focal point.
- Orbifolia: Known for its large, round leaves adorned with silver-green stripes, creating a mesmerizing effect.
- Ornata: Also called the Pinstripe Plant, it has deep green leaves with delicate pink stripes, offering a sophisticated look.
- Sanderiana: Similar to Ornata, with pink-striped leaves but with more pronounced and vivid coloration.
- Zebrina: Boasts velvety leaves with zebra-like stripes, adding an exotic touch to indoor spaces.
Thriving in Your Home
Calatheas thrive in bright, indirect light and high humidity, making them ideal for indoor environments. They prefer consistently moist, well-draining soil and benefit from regular misting to maintain humidity. These plants can be sensitive to tap water (depending on the area you live). If that's the case, then using distilled or filtered water is also an option to prevent leaf browning and tips from drying out.
Their beauty is not just skin deep; Calatheas are known for their air-purifying qualities, making them excellent additions to your home for both aesthetic and health benefits. They can reduce stress and create a calming environment, contributing to a sense of well-being and tranquility.
The Art of Calathea Care
To keep your Calathea flourishing:
- Light: Position in a spot with bright, indirect light to avoid scorching the leaves.
- Water: Keep the soil moist but not soggy; allow the top inch to dry out between waterings.
- Humidity: Maintain humidity above 50%; use a humidifier or place the plant on a tray of pebbles with water.
- Temperature: Ideal temperatures range from 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit, avoiding cold drafts and sudden temperature changes.
- Fertilizer: Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength monthly during the growing season.
Embrace the elegance and sophistication of Calathea plants in your home this July. Their rich history, striking patterns, and serene beauty make them not just a plant, but a living masterpiece to be admired and cherished. Visit Boma Garden Centre in Kentish Town to enjoy the current Calathea Special Offers, exclusively available in store.
