Calathea louisae 'Misto' - Prayer Plant

This Calathea looks stunning - its foliage looks unreal with deep green brushstrokes across the pale green leaves, more like a painting than a living thing. But we can guarantee that it is a real, living plant! And you'll be able to see this yourself if you see it at night, when the leaves fold upwards in reaction to low light, a process called 'nyctinasty' which helps the plant maximise daytime light levels and protect its leaves overnight. This rainforest plant will love above-average humidity, so ensure it's in a spot away from the drying heat of a radiator, and out of direct sun, which can scorch the leaves, too. A warm, well-used bathroom might just be the perfect spot to keep this plant looking healthy and stunning year-round.

Scientific Name
Goeppertia louisae 'Misto' (Göppert's plant, Louise's species, cultivar: mixed)

Synonyms: Calathea louisae ‘Misto’

Known as Calathea louisae since its first classification in 1908, 21st-Century analysis placed it in the Genus of Goeppertia in 2012.

Common Name
Misto Calathea, Prayer Plant

Origin
Native to tropical rainforest in southeastern Brazil, around Rio de Janeiro

Light
Thrives in bright, indirect light. It can tolerate lower light conditions but may grow more slowly. Avoid direct sun, which can scorch the delicate leaves and fade their variegation.

Water
Allow the top inch of soil to dry out in between watering - this plant likes consistent moisture in the soil. If possible, use rainwater rather than tapwater, or at least allow tap water to sit out for 24 hours to allow chemicals in it to settle. Water with tepid or lukewarm water to avoid shocking the plant.

Humidity
High humidity is key for this plant, ideally around 60-80% humidity. You can keep it in a group of plants, or pop it in a humidity tray to increase local humidity around the plant. It will prefer to be away from operating heaters which would dry it out, and can do well in a bright bathroom where humidity tends to be higher.

Soil
Plant in fast draining, but moisture retentive soil. A mix with added bark or perlite would be ideal. Repot every two years in spring, and water a day in advance to combat transplant shock.

Food
Feed every four waters in spring and summer while the plant is growing the most; reduce to every six over winter when growth slows.

Temperature
Ideal temperature is around 20-26°C; make sure it does not get colder than 12°C in winter.

Pet-safe
Yes, but too much nibbling won't be good for pets, small humans or the plant!

Sprouts Top Tips
Calatheas can be fussy, so make sure you choose your location well to keep it in above-average humidity. To keep leaves looking their best, wipe them gently with a damp cloth to remove dust and improve photosynthesis. Avoid placing near heating vents or air conditioners, as fluctuating temperatures can stress the plant and dry the air.

Extras
Small swollen nodules will grow along Calathea roots - this is healthy and they are used to store water and nutrients, so don't cut them off when you're repotting!