Description

Calathea Feddie is a compact, clump-forming understory plant prized for its elegant, fishbone-striped foliage. The leaves are thin, satiny, and slightly arching, creating a lush mound that brings texture and gentle motion to interior spaces. True to prayer plants, the leaf petioles subtly raise and lower over a 24-hour cycle, adding a dynamic, living quality to shelves and plant groupings.

Best grown indoors or in very warm, frost-free climates, it appreciates steady moisture, high humidity, and filtered light—conditions similar to its native forest floor habitat. While flowering is uncommon indoors, the foliage delivers year-round interest and a calming, modern look.

Plant Details

• Botanical NameCalathea Feddie
• Common NameCalathea (often sold as “Freddie Prayer Plant”)
• Size & Growth12–24 in tall and 12–18 in wide; clump-forming with gently arching, lance-shaped leaves.
• Hardiness ZonesUSDA 11–12 outdoors (year-round). Commonly grown indoors elsewhere; protect from temperatures below 60°F (16°C).
• Foliage TypeEvergreen, patterned foliage; light green background with darker fishbone stripes; undersides pale to medium green.
• Bloom TimeRare indoors; may produce small, inconspicuous flowers in warm months (spring–summer) under optimal conditions.
• Growth RateModerate in warm, bright-indirect light; slows markedly in winter or low light.
• Light RequirementsBright, indirect light to dappled shade; avoid direct sun which can fade or scorch leaves. Tolerates medium light with slower growth.
• Attracts PollinatorsLow; primarily grown for foliage. Outdoor blooms (in frost-free areas) may attract small insects, but not a major pollinator plant.
• Indoor FriendlyYes — an excellent houseplant given warmth, humidity, and filtered light.
• Container FriendlyYes — thrives in well-drained containers; repot every 1–2 years as clumps expand.
• Deer ResistantNot considered deer resistant; typically grown indoors and away from wildlife browsing.
• Pet WarningNon-toxic to cats and dogs; safe but not edible (avoid chewing).
• FragrantNo — valued for foliage; flowers, if present, are not notably scented.
• Cut FlowerNot typically used as cut flowers; foliage wilts quickly out of high humidity.
• Grows Well WithGrows Well With Maranta, Ctenanthe, Stromanthe, Fittonia, Peperomia, Philodendron (low-light types), Pilea — all prefer similar warmth and humidity.

Care Tips

• Planting InstructionsUse a pot with drainage. Loosen roots gently, set the crown level with the soil surface, and backfill with an airy mix. Water to settle and place in bright, indirect light away from direct sun or drafts.
• Soil MoistureKeep evenly moist but never soggy. Allow the top 0.5–1 in of mix to dry before watering again. Empty saucers; consistent moisture reduces leaf edge browning.
• Soil TypeAiry, peat-free aroid blend: ~40% coco coir, 30% fine pine bark, 20% perlite, 10% compost/worm castings; slightly acidic pH 6.0–6.5 for best nutrient uptake.
• HumidityPrefers 50–70%+; aim for ≥60% to prevent crispy edges. Use a humidifier, pebble tray, or group plants. Keep away from heating/cooling vents.
• Pruning InstructionsSnip yellow or damaged leaves at the base with clean shears. Wipe leaves to remove dust; an occasional lukewarm shower deters mites and keeps foliage clean.
• Winter CareProvide bright, indirect light; reduce watering frequency (but do not let fully dry). Maintain 65–80°F (18–27°C), never below 60°F (16°C); avoid cold drafts and dry air.
• Planting DepthSet the crown even with the soil surface; keep rhizomes shallow. Leave 1–2 cm of headspace at the rim for watering.
• FertilizationFeed monthly in spring–summer with a balanced, foliage-leaning fertilizer (e.g., 3–1–2) at ¼–½ strength. Skip in winter. Flush the pot every 2–3 months to prevent salt buildup.
• Special CareUse filtered, rain, or distilled water to reduce tip burn from minerals/fluoride. Rotate the pot for even growth. Inspect for spider mites in dry conditions. Repot or divide every 1–2 years in spring. Avoid direct sun.