Calathea Warscewiczii (Jungle Velvet)

Calatheas are stunning tropical plants with brilliantly patterned leaves. Calathea warscewiczii is one of the most remarkable varieties, sporting exotic velvety foliage with two-toned green tops and burgundy-colored undersides. Pronunciation of its name isn’t the only difficult thing about the Warscewiczii – they are Calatheas, after all – but I’ll show you how to keep them happy and looking their amazing best.Mature Warscewicziis are large houseplants that can grow to 3-4 feet high and wide in optimal conditions. Its soft velvety leaves feature a striking light-and-dark green fishtail pattern with solid purplish tones underneath. The plant may bear small cream-colored flower cones in season. The Warscewiczii originates from tropical forest undergrowth. Its active leaves move by nyctinasty in response to temperature and light. The foliage isn’t quite as dramatic in their movements as their cousin Prayer Plant, but they do perform a slow daily dance and rise at night. If the plant seems different every time you look, it’s probably not just you.

Light: Calathea warscewiczii needs medium to bright, indirect light. The leaves scorch quickly in direct, intense sunlight. The further north you are, the more partial sun it can tolerate.

A western exposure with protection from hot afternoon rays is ideal, but the plant can also do well in an east- or north-facing window. Direct lighting from a southern exposure may also work if the pot is placed a few feet from the window or protected with sheer curtains.On the lesser side of light, a Warscewiczii can prosper as long as it receives more than needed to easily read by. Note that too much illumination without sufficient humidity can cause browning on the leaves.

Watering: Your Calathea warscewiczii needs consistently moist soil that never becomes sodden or too dry. Their leaves are too busy adjusting to light variations to be dependable signals of when they need water. You can’t use a predetermined schedule, either: you have to monitor them regularly. Calatheas aren’t called high maintenance for nothing.

A moisture meter can be handy for large, well-filled containers, but their readings may vary according to the soil type … using a finger to check the topsoil is a simple and dependable method.During the warm growing season, keep the soil moist by watering when the top half-inch of soil dries out. Be sure the pot has adequate drainage, and water thoroughly. Let some excess flow through the holes to flush the medium.