Pinstripe Calathea (Calathea ornata)
Pinstripe Calathea (Calathea ornata)
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The pinstripe calathea has dark green, oval leaves with fine pink stripes that look hand-painted, and deep purple undersides. It's the classic calathea, elegant and upright, and it's safe to keep around cats and dogs.
| Botanical name | Calathea ornata |
| Pet safety | Non-toxic to cats and dogs (ASPCA listed) |
| Light | Medium, indirect |
| Mature size | About 1 to 2 feet tall indoors |
| Care level | Moderate |
How to care for it
- Light: medium, indirect light. Direct sun fades the pink stripes and scorches the leaves.
- Water: keep the soil lightly moist, watering when the top inch feels dry. Don't let it dry out completely or sit in water.
- Water quality: filtered, distilled or rainwater helps prevent brown, crispy edges.
- Humidity: 50% or higher. A humidifier or a bright bathroom works well.
- Temperature: 65 to 80°F, away from drafts and heat vents.
Common questions
Is it safe for cats and dogs?
Yes. The ASPCA lists calatheas as non-toxic to cats and dogs. A pet that eats a lot of any plant may get a mild upset stomach, but it won't be poisoned.
Why are the pink stripes fading?
New leaves have the brightest stripes, and they soften with age. Too much direct light speeds up fading, so keep it in indirect light.
Why are the leaf edges turning brown?
Usually dry air or minerals in tap water. Raise the humidity and switch to filtered, distilled or rainwater.
Ships in its nursery pot. Decorative pots in the photos are not included.
Explore more pet-safe calatheas and prayer plants or low light plants.
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