Leaf Lee

Meet the Calathea Zebrina: A Foliage Showstopper Known for its striking zebra-like striped leaves and elegant presence, Calathea zebrina is a standout among indoor foliage plants. This plant, also known as the zebra plant (not to be confused with Aphelandra squarrosa), is native to southeastern Brazil and thrives in humidity-rich tropical environments. In the home, it serves as a decorative houseplant that demands a bit of love and care, perfect for plant lovers who enjoy a rewarding challenge. Understanding Calathea Zebrina’s Growing Needs Like its relatives in the Marantaceae family (prayer plants), the Calathea zebrina is sensitive to its surroundings. Offering the right balance of light, humidity, water, and temperature is essential for maintaining its vibrant appearance. Light Requirements Calathea zebrina does best in bright, indirect light. In its natural rainforest habitat, it grows under the canopy of taller trees, so direct sunlight will scorch its soft, velvety leaves

Meet Calathea Orbifolia: A Striking Addition to Your Indoor Jungle Calathea orbifolia is one of the most stunning houseplants you can add to your indoor collection. Loved for its extra-large, oval-shaped foliage with soft silver and green striped patterns, this tropical beauty hails from the rainforests of Bolivia. While its appearance is dramatically ornamental, Calathea orbifolia requires a bit of careful attention to keep it healthy and thriving. Fortunately, with a little understanding of its natural habitat and preferences, even novice plant parents can enjoy its beauty. Understanding the Needs of Calathea Orbifolia Watering: Keep It Consistent, But Not Excessive Calathea orbifolia prefers evenly moist soil but is sensitive to overwatering. This balance can be a bit tricky, but once you’ve established a rhythm, your plant will reward you with vibrant growth. Here are a few key watering tips: Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry to the touch. Use filtered or distil

Introduction Among the many varieties of indoor houseplants, few are as eye-catching and elegant as Calathea makoyana, commonly known as the Peacock Plant. Native to the tropical forests of Brazil, this stunning plant has earned its place in homes and collections around the world for its unique foliage. The lush, oval-shaped leaves, marked with deep green patterns over pale green backgrounds and a touch of purplish undersides, resemble a peacock’s feathers—hence the name. While enchanting, the Peacock Plant does come with a bit of a reputation for being “fussy.” But don’t worry—once you understand its specific care needs, Calathea makoyana can become a long-lasting, evergreen addition to your indoor jungle. In this guide, we’ll explore its origins, characteristics, and detailed care tips that cater to beginners and indoor plant enthusiasts alike. Understanding Calathea makoyana Calathea makoyana belongs to the Marantaceae family, a group of plants often admired for their intricate lea

Understanding Calathea lancifolia: The Rattlesnake Plant For indoor plant lovers searching for a visually unique and pet-safe tropical addition to their collection, Calathea lancifolia, commonly known as Rattlesnake Plant, is a stunning choice. With its long, lance-shaped leaves that boast wavy edges, dark green markings, and deep purple undersides, this plant brings an exotic flair to any indoor space. More than its appearance, Calathea lancifolia is appreciated for its rhythmic leaf movements — a form of nyctinasty, in which leaves move in response to light, opening in the day and closing at night. This charming habit often intrigues plant parents and offers a deeper appreciation for the delicate complexity of foliage plants. Natural Habitat and Growing Conditions Native to the tropical rainforests of Brazil, Calathea lancifolia thrives in humid, low-light environments under the forest canopy. Understanding the plant’s natural habitat provides clues on how to care for it indoors. Re

Meet Calathea roseopicta: A Showstopper in the Indoor Jungle If you’re a fan of foliage and want to bring a splash of color and character to your indoor plant collection, Calathea roseopicta is a must-have. Known for its lush, velvety leaves and stunning visual appeal, this tropical plant hails from the rainforest undergrowths of South America. With its deep green background and pinkish to silvery markings, it rightfully earns its place among the most ornamental houseplants for plant lovers and beginner gardeners alike. Understanding Calathea roseopicta Calathea roseopicta belongs to the Marantaceae family, commonly referred to as the “prayer plant” family. This name comes from their unique nyctinastic movements, where the leaves fold upward at night and reopen in the morning, as if in prayer. The species showcases a range of cultivars such as ‘Dottie,’ ‘Medallion,’ and ‘Rosy,’ each with slightly different coloration and patterns, adding to their appeal and collectability. Nativ

Meet the Majestic Calathea warscewiczii Among the dazzling assortment of indoor tropical plants, few can match the velvety charm and striking foliage of Calathea warscewiczii. Known for its lush, lance-shaped leaves with deep green topside patterns and a rich burgundy hue underneath, this plant is a favorite among houseplant collectors and beginners alike. Native to the rainforests of Central America, this species thrives in warm, humid environments and adds a touch of the exotic to any indoor space. Learning how to care for Calathea warscewiczii can feel like unlocking the secrets of the jungle — but with the right guidance, it’s easier than you think. Understanding Calathea warscewiczii’s Growth Habits Often referred to as a “prayer plant” due to its nightly leaf movements, Calathea warscewiczii belongs to the Marantaceae family. This plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and wide under optimal indoor conditions, making it a showy but manageable plant. Its soft, velvety

Understanding Calathea Medallion: A Living Work of Art Calathea medallion is a striking houseplant renowned for its ornate foliage. With bold, oval-shaped leaves patterned in shades of rich green, silver, and purple undersides, it resembles a decorative painting from nature. It’s part of the Marantaceae family, often referred to as prayer plants due to their rhythmic circadian movements—folding up at night and unfurling by morning. These movements make Calathea medallion not just a beautiful plant to observe but an interactive one as well. Native to the tropical rainforests of South America, especially Brazil, Calathea medallion thrives in warm, humid environments. This makes it ideally suited to indoor growing when provided the right care. While it may be a bit finicky for beginners, understanding its needs can turn your space into a lush, living oasis. Lighting Needs Calathea medallion does best in medium to bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch its intricate foliage, c