Marantaceae
Calathea Zebrina - Zebra Plant
Calathea zebrina
Medium-difficulty plant requiring indirect light, high humidity (above 60%), well-draining peaty soil, and regular watering. Does not tolerate direct sunlight or cold drafts.
Every 7 days
Partial shade
16° - 27°C
60% - 80%
Categories
What is Zebra Plant?
Zebra Plant (Calathea zebrina) is a medium-care plant from the Marantaceae family. Calathea zebrina is a tropical plant native to Brazil, belonging to the Marantaceae family. Its velvety leaves feature light green zebra-like stripes over a dark green background, with reddish-purple undersides. Known for its nyctinastic movement, the leaves fold upward at dusk as if praying.
Zebra Plant grows up to 90cm, with spread of 60cm, watering every 7 days, 16°C â 27°C, 60â80% humidity. It is suitable for indoor environments and safe for pets.
Care Guide
How to Water
Keep the soil evenly moist but never waterlogged. Water when the top of the substrate feels dry. Use filtered or dechlorinated water, as the plant is sensitive to chlorine and fluoride.
Lighting
Prefers bright to medium indirect light. Never expose to direct sunlight, which can scorch and discolor the leaves. Tolerates lower light but may become leggy.
Ideal Soil
Use a well-draining peaty mix: 2 parts peat, 1 part perlite, and 1 part coco coir. African violet potting mix also works well.
Recommended Pot
Ceramic or plastic pot with drainage holes. Avoid terracotta pots as they dry out too quickly for this humidity-loving plant.
Care Schedule
Fertilize
Every 30 days
Misting
Every 3 days
Rotate
Every 14 days
Repot
Every 365 days
About Zebra Plant
Calathea zebrina is a tropical plant native to Brazil, belonging to the Marantaceae family. Its velvety leaves feature light green zebra-like stripes over a dark green background, with reddish-purple undersides. Known for its nyctinastic movement, the leaves fold upward at dusk as if praying.
How to Propagate
Clump division
Only divide in spring when the plant is actively growing. Maintain high humidity after transplanting.
- 1 Carefully remove the plant from its pot in spring
- 2 Separate clumps ensuring each division has healthy roots
- 3 Plant each division in a pot with moist peaty substrate
- 4 Keep in a warm, humid location until established
Materials needed:
Characteristics
Max height
90cm
Spread
60cm
Growth rate
Slow
Foliage
Evergreen
Plant Uses
Ornamental
Great for decoration
Air Purifying
Improves air quality
Is your plant showing symptoms?
Click on the symptom to discover possible causes:
Common Problems
Root Rot
Root rot is a serious fungal disease that affects the root system of plants, causing them to decay and die. It is primarily caused by overwatering, poor drainage, or soil-borne fungi such as Pythium, Phytophthora, Rhizoctonia, and Fusarium. The disease thrives in waterlogged conditions where roots are deprived of oxygen, making them susceptible to fungal infection.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny arachnids (less than 1/20 inch long) related to spiders and ticks that feed on plant sap. They thrive in hot, dry conditions and can cause significant damage to ornamental and vegetable plants. During severe infestations, crop losses can reach 14% or higher as these pests disrupt vital plant processes including photosynthesis, carbon dioxide absorption, and transpiration.
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects covered with a white, waxy, cottony material. They are common pests of houseplants and outdoor plants in mild climates. These sap-sucking insects feed on plant tissue, causing damage, stunted growth, and can lead to plant death if left untreated. They produce sticky honeydew which attracts sooty mold.
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied, pear-shaped insects (1/16 to 1/8 inch long) that feed by sucking nutrient-rich sap from plants. They reproduce rapidly and can quickly weaken plants, causing distorted growth and transmitting plant viruses. Aphids come in various colors including green, black, red, yellow, brown, and gray. They secrete honeydew, a sticky substance that attracts ants and encourages sooty mold growth.
Meaning & Symbolism
New beginnings and turning over a new leaf
Fun Facts
The leaves move throughout the day, folding up at night as if praying - a phenomenon called nyctinasty
In the wild, Calathea zebrina can grow up to 1 meter tall
It is one of the most efficient plants for purifying indoor air
The zebra pattern on each leaf is unique, like fingerprints
Frequently asked questions
How often should I water Calathea zebrina?
Is Calathea zebrina toxic to pets?
Why are the tips of my Calathea zebrina leaves turning brown?
Does Calathea zebrina need a lot of light?
Compare with similar plants
| Attribute | Difficulty | Light | Watering | Pet Safe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Round-leaf Calathea | Hard | Partial shade | 7d | â |
| Flamingo Flower | Medium | Partial shade | 5d | â ïļ |
| Prayer Plant | Medium | Partial shade | 3d | â |
| Peacock Plant | Hard | Partial shade | 4d | â |
