Calathea jungle velvet/ Calathea Warscewiczii(Single plant)

Jungle Velvet Calathea is a stunning tropical houseplant known for its deep green velvety leaves with light green feather patterns and purple undersides. It belongs to the prayer plant family (Marantaceae), and the leaves fold slightly at night.

 Plant Overview

• Type: Tropical foliage plant

• Height: 60–90 cm indoors

• Leaf texture: Velvety

• Leaf underside: Burgundy / purple

• Growth habit: Bushy clumping plant

 Light

• Prefers bright indirect light.

• Avoid direct sunlight, which can burn the velvety leaves.

• Ideal near an east or north-facing window.

 Water

• Keep soil consistently slightly moist, but not soggy.

• Water when the top 2–3 cm of soil dries.

• Use filtered, rainwater, or RO water if possible because calatheas are sensitive to salts.

 Soil Mix

Use a light, well-draining mix:

• Cocopeat – 40%

• Perlite – 30%

• Compost or worm castings – 20%

• Bark chips – 10%

 Temperature & Humidity

• Temperature: 18–30°C

• Humidity: 60–80% (very important)

• In tropical areas like Kochi, it usually grows well indoors.

 Tips to increase humidity:

• Pebble tray with water

• Humidifier

• Group plants together

 Fertilizer

• Feed once a month during the growing season.

• Use half-strength balanced liquid fertilizer (NPK 10-10-10 or 19-19-19).

 Maintenance

• Remove yellow or damaged leaves at the base.

• Wipe leaves gently to remove dust.

 Common Problems

• Brown leaf edges: Low humidity or hard water.

• Yellow leaves: Overwatering.

• Spider mites: Increase humidity and spray neem oil.

 Pot Size

• Start with 6–8 inch pot.

• Repot every 1–2 years when root-bound.

Special Feature: This plant sometimes produces cone-like cream flowers, which is rare for most Calatheas.