Contents
Description
Calathea Lutea, also known as Cuban Cigar or Maranta Lutea, is a tropical plant native to Central and South America. It belongs to the Marantaceae family and is an evergreen perennial that grows up to 2-3 feet tall. The plant features large, oval-shaped leaves that are dark green in color with light green stripes. The underside of the leaves is purple in color, which adds to its aesthetic appeal. The flowers of Calathea Lutea are yellow in color and bloom in spring and summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Zingiberales |
| Family | Marantaceae |
| Genus | Calathea |
Appearance
Calathea Lutea has large, oval-shaped leaves that grow up to 10-12 inches long and 7-8 inches wide. The leaves are dark green in color with light green stripes and a purple underside. The plant also features yellow flowers that bloom in spring and summer. Calathea Lutea is an attractive plant that adds a tropical feel to any indoor or outdoor space.
Care Guide
Water
Calathea Lutea prefers moist soil and requires regular watering. It is important to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Use filtered or distilled water to avoid chlorine and fluoride buildup.
Fertilization
Calathea Lutea benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks to promote healthy growth.
Soil
Calathea Lutea prefers well-draining, fertile soil. Use a high-quality potting mix that contains peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite. Avoid using heavy soils that retain too much water.
Sunlight
Calathea Lutea prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, as this can damage the leaves. Place the plant near a window that receives filtered light or use a sheer curtain to filter the light.
Hardiness Zones
Calathea Lutea is not frost-tolerant and is suitable for growing in USDA hardiness zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Calathea Lutea is susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. Check the plant regularly for signs of infestation and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also prone to fungal diseases such as leaf spot and root rot. Avoid overwatering and ensure good air circulation to prevent these diseases.
Habitat
Calathea Lutea is native to Central and South America and grows in tropical rainforests. The plant prefers moist soil and humid environments.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Calathea Lutea be grown outdoors?
A: Calathea Lutea is best grown indoors or in a greenhouse. It is not frost-tolerant and requires warm temperatures and high humidity.
Q: How often should I fertilize Calathea Lutea?
A: Fertilize Calathea Lutea every 2-3 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How do I propagate Calathea Lutea?
A: Calathea Lutea can be propagated through division. Carefully separate the plant into smaller sections, ensuring that each section has roots attached. Plant the new sections in fresh soil and water thoroughly.
Q: Why are the leaves of my Calathea Lutea turning yellow?
A: Yellow leaves on Calathea Lutea can be a sign of overwatering, underwatering, or exposure to direct sunlight. Check the soil moisture and adjust watering accordingly. Move the plant to a location with filtered light to prevent leaf damage.
Related Plants
- Calathea Ornata
- Calathea Lancifolia
- Calathea Roseopicta
- Calathea Makoyana
References
- “Calathea Lutea.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277548.
- “Calathea Lutea.” Plant Care Today, 3 Aug. 2021, plantcaretoday.com/calathea-lutea.
- “Cuban Cigar – Calathea Lutea.” Plantopedia, plantophiles.com/plantopedia/calathea-lutea/.
