Calathea Oppenheimiana - Calthea Setosa - 4 inch pot
From the tropical rainforests of South America, the Never Never Plant is from the Prayer Plant family, Marantaceae, who all have a stunning habit of raising their leaves at night and lowering them during the day.
The Never Never Plant, Ctenanthe oppenheimiana, makes a particularly dramatic show of this, folding completely vertical at night and displaying the dark red undersides of its leaves, and unfolding its leaves 90º or more during the day.
It grows up to 36 in height, and spreads outwards in clumps of shoots.
The accepted botanical name is Ctenanthe oppenheimiana, but is also often referred to as Calathea oppenheimiana. It's commonly known as Never Never Plant, Giant Bamburanta.
LIGHTING
The calathea prefers a medium light. Keep her away from any windows as the bright sun will burn her leaves. While Iggy likes medium light she will be tolerant of lower light in the winter months when sunlight is minimal.
WATERING
The calathea likes small amounts of water on a regular basis so it’s best to check her soil weekly to make sure it doesn’t dry out too much. Getting the balance may be tricky as she won’t like his soil to completely dry out or be too soggy. In the winter time you can reduce her watering schedule to once a week but always check her soil is dry before you water her.
HUMIDITY
The calathea is from a very humid climate and will appreciate moisture on her leaves. To replicate her natural habitat you can place her next to a humidifier, group her with other humidity loving plants or place her in a bathroom.
TEMPERATURE
The perfect indoor temperature for the calathea is between 18-24 degrees celsius. As long as the indoor temperature doesn't dip lower than 18°C Iggy will be happy.
FERTILIZER
To promote growth use fertilizer every 4-6 weeks in the months from March-September. Make sure to dilute the fertilizer to a quarter strength to avoid fertilizer burn to the roots.
Not winter hardy!
Shipping Continental US Only!