Contents
Description
Calathea Utilis, also known as “network plant,” is a beautiful tropical plant that is native to South America. It is a member of the Marantaceae family and is popular among plant enthusiasts due to its unique foliage. Calathea Utilis has broad, deep green leaves with thin, silver stripes running across the surface. The underside of the leaves is a deep maroon color, adding to its stunning appearance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Zingiberales |
| Family | Marantaceae |
| Genus | Calathea |
Appearance
Calathea Utilis is a relatively small plant, growing to only about 2-3 feet tall. Its leaves can grow up to 12 inches long and 5 inches wide, making it a great choice for small spaces. The plant’s leaves are broad and oval-shaped, with slightly pointed tips. The leaves are a deep green color with thin, silver stripes running across the surface. The undersides of the leaves are a deep maroon color, which adds to the plant’s striking appearance.
Care Guide
Calathea Utilis is a relatively easy plant to care for, making it a great choice for beginners. Here are some tips for caring for your Calathea Utilis:Water: Calathea Utilis prefers moist soil, so it’s important to keep it consistently watered. Water your plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.Fertilization: Fertilize your Calathea Utilis every 2-3 months during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.Soil: Calathea Utilis prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A good potting mix for this plant should contain peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite.Sunlight: Calathea Utilis prefers bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, so it’s best to place it in a spot where it will receive filtered light.Hardiness Zones: Calathea Utilis is not cold hardy and should be kept indoors in most climates. It prefers temperatures between 65-80°F.
Common Pests & Diseases
Calathea Utilis is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can still be susceptible to a few common issues. The most common pests that affect this plant are spider mites and mealybugs. To prevent these pests, keep your plant in a well-ventilated area and avoid overwatering. If you do notice pests on your plant, use a gentle insecticidal soap to get rid of them.
Habitat
Calathea Utilis is native to South America and is commonly found in tropical rainforests. It prefers moist soil and high humidity, which makes it a great choice for indoor cultivation.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I propagate Calathea Utilis from cuttings?
A: Yes, Calathea Utilis can be propagated from stem cuttings. Simply take a 4-6 inch cutting from the plant and place it in a pot with well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and in a warm, humid location until roots develop.Q: Why are the leaves on my Calathea Utilis turning brown?
A: Brown leaves on Calathea Utilis are usually a sign of overwatering or underwatering. Make sure to keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Also, ensure that the plant is not receiving direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.Q: How often should I fertilize my Calathea Utilis?
A: Fertilize your Calathea Utilis every 2-3 months during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.Q: Can I keep Calathea Utilis outdoors?
A: Calathea Utilis is not cold hardy and should be kept indoors in most climates. It prefers temperatures between 65-80°F.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that you might also be interested in:- Calathea Orbifolia- Calathea Lancifolia- Calathea Zebrina- Calathea Medallion
References
– “Calathea Plant Care Guide.” The Sill, https://www.thesill.com/blogs/care-miscellaneous/calathea-plant-care-guide.- “Calathea.” Missouri Botanical Garden, http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c199.
