The Korbmarante is an extremely fascinating foliage plant with decorative leaves. This member of the arrowroot family comes from the tropical regions of South America and varies in shape, color and size. In their homeland, the leaves were used as a roof covering and for weaving baskets. This is how the name «Calathea» came about, which is derived from the Greek and means something like » basket «. With this feature, you can quickly create an exotic atmosphere at home. It also sets special accents as a solitaire.

Worth knowing Site care Watering Fertilizing Repotting Species Pests & diseases FAQ

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Worth knowing about Korbmarante

Botanical name: calathea
Other names: basket marante, arrowroot, Maranta, peacock plant, peacock basket marante
Use: houseplant, interior greening, ornamental foliage plant, promotes the room climate
Origin: Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador
Flowers: white or yellow-orange, cone-like, not every Variety flowers
Special features: The plant is particularly appealing due to its different shades of green, multicolored leaf markings and patterns. With proper care, she becomes an absolute beauty. Avoid direct sun, a semi-shady place is ideal.

At which location does the Korbmarante feel most at home?

Calathea prefer a bright, warm and semi-shady spot indoors, preferably away from direct midday sun. Temperatures of 20 °C are ideal all year round. Exotic plants grow in the shady undergrowth of tropical rain forests. The demands on light, temperature and high humidity are corresponding. The latter is often the limiting factor in the room. Regular spraying of the marked leaves with low-lime water using a spray bottle is therefore beneficial. As with many other indoor plants, it also helps that the edges of the leaves do not become dry and brown. In the summer monthsthe ornamental foliage plant can stand in a shady place in the garden or on the balcony. However, to avoid leaf burns, gradual acclimatization to outdoor conditions is important. The tropical plant should be back indoors from the end of August, because temperatures below 15 °C lead to stunted growth and lightening of the leaves. Basically, the species tolerates dark locations better than full sun.

Fact: The Korbmarante effectively cleans the air of pollutants. As a room climate plant, the beauty is predestined for offices, bedrooms and living rooms.

How do I care for my calathea?

When it comes to maintenance, watering has the greatest importance for a successful culture. The roots should never stand in water or dry out completely. If the humidity requirements are met, little care is required. Periodically wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust. This care measure helps the calathea to develop splendidly. A pruning is not necessary. Remove dry and brown leaves regularly with a sharp knife. You can repot every 2 to 3 years in spring.

Tip: Rolled up leaves during the day are an indication of dry air in a warm location. You should remedy this by increasing the humidity. An indoor fountain or bowl of water nearby improves the climate. Regular spraying with lime-free water is also helpful. The demands on humidity are high and should not be underestimated.

What is the best way to water my Korbmarante?

The Korbmarante needs an even water supply. It is important that there is never waterlogging and that excess water is poured off 15 minutes after watering. How often you have to water depends largely on the room temperature, the sunlight and the size of the pot. Watering about twice a week is necessary in summer. The basic rule is that there should never be waterlogging, but the soil should not dry out completely. Lime-free, lukewarm water is ideal for watering. In addition, spraying can take place all year round to increase the humidity. A shower in the shower is also possible to give the species the best conditions.

How do I fertilize my basket marante?

The houseplant needs regular fertilizer for the formation of new leaves and for the colouration. A special green plant fertilizer is ideal for fertilizing, which is enriched with important growth and vital substances and helps the houseplant to look healthy and fresh. Fertilize every 2 weeks from March to October and every 6 weeks in winter. Fertilizing with fertilizer sticks is easy to handle. With this convenient long-term fertilization, your plant is supplied with all the necessary nutrients, minerals and trace elements for 3 months.

How do I repot my calathea?

For a good development, it is important that you repot your basket marante every 2 to 3 years in the spring. Use a high-quality and structurally stable indoor plant potting soil for this. Choose a pot that is 5 to 7 cm larger than the previous one and first fill the new pot with a thin drainage layer of expanded clay. In this way you prevent harmful waterlogging and give your plant the best conditions with the beautiful foliage.

What types of Calathea are there?

The genus includes almost 300 species, only a few of which are cultivated as houseplants. The main feature is patterned leaves, often green and with a reddish underside. The care tips apply to all species. Important representatives are:

• Calathea lancifolia
• Calathea rufibarba
• Calathea roseopicta
• Calathea rubifolia
• Calathea ornata
• Calathea sanderiana
• Calathea warscewiczii

Calathea zebrina

What pests and diseases can calathea get?

Calatheas are robust green plants, which are rarely attacked by diseases and pests in the optimal location. Most problems arise due to incorrect conditions. The following pests can occur:

spider mites

The affected leaves have silvery dots on the upper side and webs are visible on the underside of the leaves. The infestation often occurs in winter when the indoor air is warm and dry. It is usually sufficient to spray the plants with water and treat them with plant strengtheners. These organic active agents contain natural plant extracts that contribute to the vitalization of the plant. You can prevent an infestation by increasing the humidity. A nearby indoor fountain or regular spraying of the plant with low-lime water helps. Spider mites are often an indication of low humidity. Cut off the dried leaves and take care of optimal conditions.

aphids

Young leaves are often attacked by aphids when they sprout. As soon as you have noticed the aphid infestation, it is advisable to shower the plants with a jet of water. Strengthen the plants with organic active agents and ensure optimal site conditions. These measures often help to prevent the aphids from spreading further.

FAQ — Frequently asked questions about Calathea

What can be the reason for yellow or brown leaves?

Too much water is usually the reason for yellow or brown leaves. Furthermore, a too cold location, draft or direct sunlight can lead to lightening of leaves or browning. In addition, a lack of nutrients is a factor in leaf discoloration and bright foliage.

What can be the reason for curled leaves?

The living plant has its rhythm depending on the light supply. In the evening, the leaf edges curl up and stand upright. In daylight the next morning, the leaves spread out flat again. If curled leaves are visible during the day, it can be a result of the air being too dry.

How does calathea propagate?

The easiest method for propagation is to obtain cuttings. These are cut off with a sharp knife in the spring and placed directly in the potting soil. A cultivation set with a cover is ideal for rooting. Here the temperature remains constant and the humidity high. Make sure the substrate stays evenly moist. After 6 to 8 weeks roots have formed and repotting into larger containers is necessary. You can also propagate the houseplant simply by dividing the rootstock.