Calathea Warscewiczii is a beautiful plant with long tapered ruffled leaves
These large leaves have outstanding dramatic contrasting colors
Calatheas enjoy a light well draining soil
A mix of potting soil and perlite and peat will keep the roots happy if well mixed with lighter soils
The Warscewiczii do not like to be overly root bound
If you want to encourage faster growth choose a pot about 2 inches wider in diameter than the current pot
Use a well drained ceramic or plastic pot
Calatheas enjoysindirect light for best leaf variegation and optimal growth
Calatheas are happy at 50 to 60% humidity
These plants love low mineral, soft acid water between 5.5 and 6 Ph
Hard water high in minerals and salts will burn the leaves
Water your Calathea when the soil is dry down an inch or so
Apply a good quality fertilizer monthly through spring and summer at half dose
If you see burn marks on the plant leaves reduce fertilizer by half again
For the best care your Calathea leaves enjoy occasional washing
Neem oil leaf shine and water is a good choice for leaf washing
Dusty leaves will starve the plants of water exchange through humidity
Calatheas are especially susceptible to spider mites
Stress by longterm poor watering practices, poor light, extreme temperatures and soil conditions are contributors to pests
Propagation is best done through root division
Gently pull apart the two rhizomes to separate them
If the roots are heavily intertwined cut them as necessary with sharp sterile scissors or small pruners