Similar to its popular cousinthe prayer plantzebra plant leaves are bright green with dark green stripes.

Calathea zebrina grows up to three feet tall, with leaves reaching to two feet long.

Outdoors place it to receive partial sunlight, ideally dappled or filtered by surrounding plants.

A shelf or small table is better for a zebra plant than a sunny windowsill.

Soil

Calathea zebrina requires loamy, moist, well-draining soil.

On the other hand, soil that drains too rapidly will not provide enough moisture.

For best results, use a mix of potting soil, perlite, and peat.

Water

Zebra plants require regular watering.

How often to water depends on how quickly the soil begins to dry.

This changes depending on the season as well as climate and humidity levels.

The ideal way to check moisture level is to feel the soil.

If the top inch or two begins to dry, it is time to water.

Temperature and Humidity

Humidity level is key to maintaining the health of zebra plants.

They require humidity at greater than 50 percent and ideally above 60 percent.

For indoor calathea zebrina plants, you may need a humidifier to increase moisture in the air.

Like other plants in theCalatheagenus, zebra plants require warm temperatures to thrive.

These plants do best between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.

They should never be kept in temperatures lower than 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

Fertilizer

Most people dont need to fertilize zebra plants.

In fact, too much fertilizer can easily burn this plant.

Propagating Calathea Zebrina

you’re free to propagate Calathea zebrina by division.

Be sure to choose a container two inches larger with plenty of drainage holes.

Gently tip the plant on its side and slide it out of its container.

Place it in its new container and fill the extra space with freshpotting soilmixed withperliteand peat for drainage.

Be sure to bury the roots to the same level as in their previous pot.

Problems can arise when maintenance errors occur.

Here are some common issues.

Brown, Curling Leaf Tips

This is a telltale sign of inadequatehumidityor water.

If the plant needs is dry, water thoroughly until the soil is fully moistened.

Allow excess water to drain away.

it’s possible for you to use sterile scissors to trim away the brown edges for improved appearance.

If allowed to progress, this can quickly turn into root rot.

You must take quick action toprevent the root rot from spreading and save the plant.

You only need to repot every two years or so.

Misting a calathea zebrina will not help it.

Calathea zebrina can be sensitive to humidity and temperature levels, as well as underwatering and overwatering.

However, once the right balance is found, they make wonderful houseplants.

How to care for houseplants.

University of Iowa Extension Office