Calathea Calathea picturata

Calathea picturata is a evergreen perennial that forms 14 to 16 inch clumps of dramatically colored leaves and is typically grown as a houseplant. The leaves are dark green above, purple below, with silver-colored veins and midriff. The plant is not tolerant of temperatures below 61 degrees F, thus its cultivation indoors under medium light.

If grown in the garden, Calathea prefers moisture and shade, similar to conditions in its native Brazil. When grown as a house plant, keep the plant moist by spraying the leaves several times a week. Propagation is by root division. Water with soft water and maintain a uniform high humidity and temperature.