5 Tips to Help Your Calathea Thrive
Calathea, also known as the prayer plant, is a species that often presents a challenge to plant enthusiasts. Despite their reputation for being tricky to care for, calatheas boast foliage that captivates the eye with its striking patterns and colors. They are known as repeat offenders, requiring attentive care and maintenance. However, despite the challenges, plant lovers persist in their efforts to nurture and please these beauties, drawn to their unique charm and allure.
They are referred to "prayer plants" because of the unique behavior of their leaves. At night, the leaves fold upward, resembling hands clasped in prayer. This movement is a result of a process called nyctinasty, where the leaves respond to changes in light by opening and closing. The upward folding of the leaves during the night and unfolding during the day give the impression of the plant "praying" at night and "reaching out" during the day, hence the nickname "prayer plant." This distinctive behavior adds to the intrigue, making them popular choices among many plant enthusiasts.
Calatheas are considered good for air quality. They act as natural air purifiers by filtering out pollutants like formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene from the surrounding air. This can be beneficial for improving overall well-being and respiratory health.
