Calathea Couture Purple: Characteristics & Cultivation

Calathea Couture Purple is a beautiful cultivar of the Calathea genus, known for its striking foliage. Like other Calatheas, it’s valued for its ornamental leaves and is often grown as an indoor plant.

The leaves of Calathea Couture Purple are known for their dramatic coloration. They typically feature a rich purple or burgundy underside with varying patterns on the top side, which might include shades of green, silver, or pink, often with intricate patterns that mimic a peacock’s feather or similar decorative motifs. The leaves are broad, oval, and have a glossy appearance.

Characteristics

  • Foliage: The Couture Purple has lush, oval leaves with a rich, deep green to dark purple color on the top and a striking purple or burgundy hue on the underside. This contrast is eye-catching and adds a vibrant touch to indoor spaces.
  • Growth Habit: It grows in clumps, forming a bushy, compact appearance ideal for pots or as part of a plant collection.
  • Size: Typically, it reaches a height of about 1-2 feet (30-60 cm) indoors, making it manageable for indoor environments.
  • Pet-Friendly: Like other Calatheas, this variety is non-toxic, making it safe for households with pets.

Cultivation & Care Requirements

  • Light: Calathea Couture Purple thrives in bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, so it’s best to place it near a window with filtered light or in a well-lit room. It can tolerate low light but may grow more slowly.
  • Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Calatheas are sensitive to water quality, so use filtered or distilled water when possible, as they are prone to leaf burn from chemicals like chlorine and fluoride. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
  • Humidity: This plant loves high humidity (above 50-60%). If the indoor air is too dry, the edges of the leaves may start to brown. Increase humidity by using a humidifier, misting regularly, or placing the pot on a tray of water with pebbles.
  • Temperature: The Couture Purple prefers temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C). It’s sensitive to cold drafts and sudden temperature changes, so avoid placing it near vents or open windows in winter.
  • Soil: Use a well-draining, peat-based potting mix to keep the roots healthy. Adding some perlite to the mix can improve aeration and prevent root rot.
  • Fertilizer: Feed the plant every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing during winter, as the plant’s growth slows down.
  • Pruning: Trim any brown or dead leaves to keep the plant looking neat and to encourage healthy new growth.

Additional Tips

  • Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years in spring, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot slightly larger than the current one to give the roots room to grow.
  • Pest Management: Watch out for pests like spider mites and aphids, which can occasionally infest Calatheas. Regularly misting the plant and wiping the leaves can help deter pests.