Calathea Rufibarba

Description

1. Botanical Information

• Botanical Name: Calathea rufibarba

• Common Names: Furry Feather, Velvet Calathea, Prayer Plant

• Family: Marantaceae

• Type: Tropical, evergreen perennial ornamental plant

2. Origin & Distribution

• Native To: Tropical regions of Brazil (South America)

• Distribution: Popular worldwide as an indoor ornamental plant

• Habitat: Thrives naturally in shaded, humid forest understories

3. Physical Characteristics

• Height & Spread: Typically grows 2–3 feet tall indoors, with bushy spread

• Leaves: Long, narrow, wavy-edged leaves; green on top and velvety burgundy-purple underneath; fine soft hairs give a fuzzy, textured feel

• Flowers: Small, yellowish flowers may appear in ideal outdoor tropical conditions, but rarely bloom indoors

• Unique Feature: Leaves fold upward at night and open in the morning, following the circadian rhythm (nyctinasty)

4. Growing Conditions

• Light: Prefers bright, indirect light; sensitive to direct sunlight which causes leaf burn

• Soil: Well-draining, fertile, peat-based or loamy soil with good aeration

• Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; avoid letting soil dry out completely

• Temperature: Ideal range 18–27°C; sensitive to cold drafts and sudden changes

• Humidity: High humidity (above 60%) is crucial for healthy growth

5. Maintenance & Care

• Pruning: Remove yellow or damaged leaves to encourage fresh growth

• Fertilization: Feed monthly during the growing season (spring–summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength

• Pests/Diseases: May be prone to spider mites, aphids, and fungal leaf spots if humidity or watering is improper

• Propagation: Usually propagated by division during repotting

6. Uses & Benefits

• Ornamental Value: Popular indoor decorative plant for homes and offices due to its striking foliage and unique velvety texture

• Air-Purifying Qualities: Like many calatheas, helps filter indoor air pollutants

• Aesthetic Appeal: Adds a tropical and elegant touch with its dual-colored leaves

• Cultural Symbolism: Associated with spirituality, calmness, and positivity in many cultures

7. Lifespan

• A long-living plant indoors with proper care; can thrive for many years in stable warm and humid conditions