Calathea roseopicta Dottie

Calathea 'Dottie', also known as the peacock plant, is a variety of houseplant with striking, almost black and pink foliage. It features rounded, ovate leaves in such a deep green that it appears black, marked with a pink central vein and a border of the same colour inside the lamina. Of tropical origin, it brings an exotic and distinguished touch to your interior, whether in a contemporary living room or a plant jungle.

Belonging to the Marantaceae family, Calathea 'Dottie' is derived from Calathea roseopicta (synonym Goeppertia roseopicta), a species native to the humid forests of northern Brazil, where it thrives under the dense canopy. The 'Dottie' variety is a cultivar selected for its sumptuous foliage. Its leaves are about 20 cm long with a dark green upper surface surrounded by an inner pink border, while the underside of the leaf is purple. This unique colouring makes it a centrepiece in interior decoration. Like other calatheas, its leaves fold up at night, a phenomenon known as nastic movement. The plant prefers indirect and soft light, as direct sunlight may damage its delicate leaves, along with a relatively high ambient humidity. The temperature should not drop below 15°C, with the optimum range being between 18 and 25°C.

Calathea 'Dottie' is perfect for adding colour and exotic flair to a living room, bedroom, or office, as long as the atmosphere isn't too dry. Pair it with plants that have similar requirements, such as Calathea insignis or the saffron-coloured Calathea crocata. These combinations will enhance the jungle effect while offering beautiful plant diversity.