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Calathea orbifolia: Understanding brown leaf edges

Calathea orbifolia

Brown leaf edges can result from water quality, low humidity or the wrong soil moisture. Check those conditions one at a time.

Calathea orbifolia – Calathea orbifolia
WaterEvenly and lightly moist, never waterlogged
LightMedium and indirect
HumidityHigh
DifficultyDemanding

Water quality and soil moisture

Calatheas are sensitive to water with a high mineral content. Rainwater or suitable filtered, low-mineral water may help prevent brown edges. Keep the soil evenly and lightly moist without leaving water in a cover pot. A fixed calendar day is no substitute for checking the soil.

Raise humidity

Dry heated air can cause leaf edges to curl and dry. A humidifier or a bright position in a naturally more humid room is more reliable than occasional misting. The plant still needs air movement and should never remain waterlogged.

Light without scorch

Medium indirect light helps preserve the leaf pattern. Intense direct sunlight may bleach or scorch the broad leaves. A north-east or north-west facing window often works well, provided the position is not permanently dark.

Every home and every plant is different. Use these values as a starting point and always check the soil and the plant itself.

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