Calathea ornata - Pinstripe Calathea

The Calathea ornata, commonly known as the - Pinstripe Calathea or Pinstripe Plant, is a species of calathea with spectacular foliage. This houseplant initially produces bright green young leaves striped with pinkish-white from the central vein. The mature foliage takes on a very dark green hue with white stripes and a pink-grey underside. The large leaves are ovate to rounded, thick, and lustrous. Not too demanding, this calathea tolerates average humidity and prefers moderate light, a few metres away from windows and without direct sunlight.

Belonging to the Marantaceae family, the Calathea ornata is native to southeastern Colombia to southwestern Venezuela, where it thrives under the dense canopy of humid forests. It has synonyms such as Goeppertia ornata, Maranta ornata, Maranta regalis. Its large, ovate leaves have a thick and glossy texture. They feature a dark green upper surface at maturity, marked with white stripes from the midrib, while the underside is pink-grey. This unique colouration makes it a centrepiece in interior decors. Additionally, like other calatheas, its leaves fold up at night, a phenomenon known as nyctinasty.

The Calathea ornata is a beautiful species with strikingly contrasted leaves. It tolerates ambient humidity simply above 50% and moderate watering. Like most calatheas, it prefers moderate light, a few metres away from windows and without direct sunlight, which can damage its foliage. Ideal for adding a colourful and exotic touch, the Calathea is ideally suited to spaces such as a living room, bedroom, or office. To create a harmonious atmosphere, it can be paired with plants with similar requirements such as the Maranta leuconeura, appreciated for its variegated foliage, or the Stromanthe sanguinea 'Triostar' with its tricolour leaves. These combinations will enhance the jungle effect while adding beautiful plant diversity.