Burle Marx Calathea: The Perfect Houseplant for Your Home

Burle Marx Calathea is one of the most popular houseplants in the world. It's known for its stunning foliage and low-maintenance nature, making it perfect for both novice and experienced plant owners. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at this beautiful plant, including its history, care requirements, and more.

What is Burle Marx Calathea?

Burle Marx Calathea is an evergreen perennial plant that belongs to the Marantaceae family. It's native to the tropical rainforests of South America, particularly Brazil. The plant is named after Roberto Burle Marx, a famous Brazilian landscape architect who was known for his love of plants.

Appearance

The Burle Marx Calathea has large, broad leaves that are typically green with various shades of light and dark markings. The underside of the leaves is often purple or burgundy in color. The plant can grow up to 2 feet tall and wide, making it a great choice for larger spaces.

History

The Burle Marx Calathea was first discovered in Brazil by German botanist Carl Friedrich Philipp von Martius in the early 1800s. It wasn't until the 20th century that the plant became popular as a houseplant. Today, it's widely grown in homes and gardens around the world.

Care Requirements

Light

Burle Marx Calathea prefers bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can cause the leaves to burn, so it's best to keep the plant in a spot where it can receive bright light without being exposed to direct sunlight.

Water

The Burle Marx Calathea prefers moist soil, but it's important not to overwater the plant. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. It's also a good idea to use distilled or filtered water to avoid chlorine and other chemicals found in tap water.

Temperature and Humidity

Burle Marx Calathea prefers warm temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C) and high humidity levels. If the air in your home is dry, consider using a humidifier or placing a tray of water near the plant to increase the humidity.

Soil and Fertilizer

The Burle Marx Calathea prefers well-draining soil that's rich in organic matter. You can use a general-purpose potting mix, or create your own by mixing equal parts peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite. Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.

Propagation

Burle Marx Calathea can be propagated through division. Simply divide the plant at the root ball and repot the divisions into their own containers. Be sure to use fresh soil and water the new plants thoroughly after repotting.

Common Problems

Pests

Burle Marx Calathea is susceptible to spider mites and mealybugs. Inspect the plant regularly for signs of infestation, such as webbing or white fluffy patches, and treat with an insecticidal soap or neem oil if necessary.

Brown Tips

Brown tips on the leaves of Burle Marx Calathea can be caused by a number of factors, including low humidity, overwatering, or exposure to drafts. To prevent brown tips, make sure the plant is in a location with high humidity levels and avoid overwatering.

Burle Marx Calathea is a beautiful and low-maintenance houseplant that's perfect for adding a touch of greenery to your home. With the right care and attention, this stunning plant can thrive for years to come.

FAQs

1. How often should I water my Burle Marx Calathea?

Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. This usually means watering once a week, but it can vary depending on the humidity levels in your home.

2. Can Burle Marx Calathea be grown outdoors?

Burle Marx Calathea is native to tropical rainforests and prefers warm, humid conditions. It can be grown outdoors in USDA zones 9-11, but it's best kept indoors in cooler climates.

3. How do I increase the humidity around my Burle Marx Calathea?

You can increase the humidity around your Burle Marx Calathea by using a humidifier, placing a tray of water near the plant, or misting the leaves with water several times a week.

4. Why are the leaves of my Burle Marx Calathea turning yellow?

Yellow leaves on Burle Marx Calathea can be a sign of overwatering, underwatering, or exposure to direct sunlight. Check the soil moisture levels and move the plant to a shadier spot if necessary.

5. Can I prune my Burle Marx Calathea?

Yes, you can prune your Burle Marx Calathea to remove dead or damaged leaves. Use clean, sharp scissors to make a clean cut at the base of the leaf stem.