Calathea orbifolia

Calathea orbifolia key features

Calathea orbifolia is renowned for its large, rounded leaves with soft silver-green stripes, creating a bold and elegant tropical look. It grows up to 60–80 cm tall, making it an excellent feature plant for indoor spaces. This variety is pet-safe and non-toxic, ideal for households with cats, dogs, or children. It thrives in bright, indirect light and prefers high humidity, making it perfect for bathrooms, kitchens, or well-lit living areas. Beyond its visual appeal, Calathea orbifolia also helps purify indoor air, improving the overall health and feel of your home environment.

Calathea orbifolia care guide

Calathea orbifolia prefers bright, indirect light and should be kept out of direct sun, which can fade its leaf patterns. Water when the top 2–3 cm of soil feels dry, keeping the soil evenly moist but not soggy. It thrives in high humidity, so regular misting or a nearby humidifier is recommended—especially in drier indoor environments. Use filtered or rainwater if possible, as tap water with fluoride or chlorine can damage the foliage. Maintain temperatures between 18°C and 24°C and keep the plant away from cold drafts. Feed monthly during the growing season with a diluted liquid fertiliser for healthy, vibrant growth.

Does Calathea orbifolia flower?

Yes, Calathea orbifolia can flower, but it is quite rare, especially when grown indoors. In its native tropical environment, it may produce small, white to pale purple flowers close to the base of the plant. However, most indoor growers focus on Calathea orbifolia for its stunning foliage rather than its blooms, which are often considered insignificant compared to the dramatic leaves. With optimal conditions—high humidity, warm temperatures, and consistent care—it might flower, but it's not commonly expected in home settings.

Calathea orbifolia Watering Guide

Calathea orbifolia prefers consistently moist but not soggy soil. Water the plant when the top 2–3 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Use room-temperature, filtered, rain, or distilled water if possible, as this plant is sensitive to fluoride, chlorine, and mineral build-up commonly found in tap water. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering may cause the leaves to curl or develop brown edges. Reduce watering slightly in winter when growth slows. Always ensure the pot has good drainage to prevent water from pooling at the bottom, and never let the plant sit in a saucer of water.

Where to buy Calathea orbifolia

The Plant Company has the best Calathea orbifolia plants to buy. Our NZ production nursery specialises in growing amazing plants and our logistics team pack them carefully for our customers. The pricing is competitive and the quality is exceptional. Let us look after your plant needs and impress you with both our products and service!

What is the difference: calathea fasciata vs orbifolia?

Calathea fasciata and Calathea orbifolia are both stunning indoor plants, but they differ noticeably in appearance and form. Calathea fasciata features broad, slightly cupped leaves with bold, dark green stripes on a lighter green background, creating a dramatic and high-contrast look. In contrast, Calathea orbifolia is known for its large, perfectly rounded leaves marked with subtle, silvery stripes on pale green foliage, giving it a softer, more elegant aesthetic. Orbifolia typically grows larger—up to 60–80 cm tall—while fasciata remains more compact and upright. Both plants thrive in bright, indirect light and high humidity, and are non-toxic to pets and children, making them excellent choices for indoor environments. The main difference lies in the visual impact: fasciata is more striking and defined, while orbifolia offers graceful, architectural foliage.​