Calathea White Fusion. A very unique and sort after Calathea with the most remarkable dark green, and bright white marbled leaves, enhanced by the pale lilac underside.
Secrets of success:
Calathea White Fusion prefer natural, indirect light with absolutely no direct sun, the beautifully patterned leaves will definitely scorch. A slightly shady spot is ok, but too dark will affect growth and leaf colour.
Calatheas thrive in warm, humid conditions. During warmer months they must be kept moist, not wet or sitting in water. Best practice is to water well from below, allowing the top of the compost to remain dry, avoiding any problems that can occur with excess moisture around the base of the stem. Approximately once a week should be enough depending on your home, and the position of the plant. Just make sure to allow the top 1-2 inches of compost to dry between watering. If possible they much prefer rainwater, or tap water that has been allowed to stand for 24 hours.
To help humidity group together with other plants, place the pot on a saucer of moist pebbles / gravel, and regular misting will all benefit your plant
Healthy plants and vigorous growth will result from warm temperatures between 18-23c.
Fertilise with a half strength balanced liquid feed once every 2-3 weeks in Spring and Summer.
In Winter, when temperatures can be lower, and growth is slow, reduce the amount and frequency of water, again making sure to allow the soil to dry between watering. This will take longer, so don`t be hasty.
Avoid temperatures below 15c.
Avoid cold draughts and sources of direct heat.
Minimum Temp: 15c
Common problems with Calatheas are crispy, brown leaf edges, basically due to low humidity, dry air. Simply cut these off and increase humidity.
Unhealthy rotting stems are usually a sign of overwatering, or too low temperatures and cold draughts. Remove damaged leaves and stems and move to a warmer spot away from draughts.
Re-pot if necessary in Spring once the roots have taken up all the room in the current pot. Only go up slightly in pot size, and use a good free draining houseplant compost. Too big a pot, and too much compost will hold too much water.
Lower, older leaves may discolour as the plant grows and focuses its energy on the new upper growth. This is quite natural. These should be removed to encourage good plant health.
Warnings: Pet safe – non-toxic to pets and humans.
