Calathea Musaica Plant Care Guide: How to Grow Calathea Musaica Plant

September 12, 2024
10:47 am

Calathea musaica (and its cultivar Calathea Network) features striking mosaic patterns on its foliage. Learn how to care for this finicky tropical houseplant.

Introduction

Calathea Musaica, also known as Calathea Network (scientific name Goeppertia kegeljanii, syn. Calathea Musaica), is a tropical houseplant admired for its unique, intricate leaf patterns resembling a mosaic. The leaves display a complex network of light and dark green veins, giving it a distinctive, textured look. Native to the rainforests of Brazil, it thrives in humid environments with indirect light. This plant requires consistent moisture, high humidity, and warm temperatures to flourish, making it somewhat challenging to care for. However, its stunning foliage makes it a popular choice for plant enthusiasts.

Exploring 4 Varieties of Calathea Musaica Plants

Calathea Musaica, also known as Goeppertia kegeljanii, has relatively few varieties compared to other Calathea species. However, the most well-known variety is the Calathea Musaica ‘Network’, a cultivated version that showcases the plant’s intricate, mosaic-like leaf patterns in even more pronounced detail.

While there aren’t many official varieties within Calathea Musaica, it belongs to the broader Calathea family, which includes a wide range of species known for their striking foliage patterns. Other popular Calathea varieties include:

Calathea Orbifolia – Large, rounded leaves with silver-green stripes.
Calathea Lancifolia (Rattlesnake Plant) – Long, narrow leaves with dark green markings.
Calathea Medallion – Bold, dark green leaves with pink or purple undersides.
Calathea Triostar (Stromanthe Triostar) – Variegated leaves with shades of pink, white, and green.

Though these are different species, they all share similar care requirements, thriving in high humidity and indirect light, making them popular among houseplant enthusiasts.

How to Grow and Care for Calathea Musaica Plant

Calathea Musaica, with its stunning mosaic-like leaves, requires specific care to thrive as a houseplant. Below are essential tips on how to grow and care for this beautiful yet finicky plant:

1. Light Requirements

Indirect Light: Calathea Musaica prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate low-light conditions. Direct sunlight may scorch its delicate leaves, so it’s best to place the plant in a spot where it gets filtered light, such as near a north or east-facing window.

2. Watering

Consistent Moisture: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water when the top inch of the soil feels dry. Be sure to use filtered or distilled water, as Calatheas are sensitive to chemicals like chlorine and fluoride commonly found in tap water.
Humidity: This plant thrives in high humidity (above 60%). Use a humidifier or place it in a naturally humid environment like a bathroom.

3. Temperature

Warmth: Calathea Musaica prefers warm temperatures between 65°F and 80°F (18°C to 27°C). Avoid exposing the plant to cold drafts, sudden temperature changes, or temperatures below 60°F (15°C).

4. Soil and Potting

Well-Draining Soil: Use a light, well-draining potting mix, such as one designed for tropical plants. A mix containing peat, perlite, and orchid bark works well to ensure proper aeration and moisture retention.
Repotting: Repot the plant every 1-2 years, preferably during spring, to give it fresh soil and space to grow.

5. Fertilizing

Balanced Fertilizer: Feed Calathea Musaica with a balanced, water-soluble houseplant fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce feeding during the fall and winter months.

6. Pruning and Maintenance

Trim Dead Leaves: Remove any yellowing or dead leaves to keep the plant healthy. Calatheas may occasionally shed older leaves, which is normal.
Pest Control: Check regularly for pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, or aphids. Wipe down the leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust and discourage pests.

7. Propagation

Division: The easiest way to propagate Calathea Musaica is by dividing the plant during repotting. Gently separate the roots and plant the divisions in fresh soil.

8. Common Issues

Curling Leaves: This can indicate underwatering or low humidity. Increase the humidity around the plant and ensure the soil is kept moist.
Brown Leaf Edges: This is often a sign of low humidity or the use of tap water. Switch to filtered water and increase humidity levels.

By providing the right conditions—bright indirect light, consistent moisture, and high humidity—Calathea Musaica can thrive and showcase its mesmerizing foliage for years to come.

7 Steps for Propagating Calathea Musaica Plant

The best method to propagate Calathea Musaica is through division, as it doesn’t typically propagate well from cuttings. Below are the steps to successfully propagate this plant:

1. Choose the Right Time

Best in Spring or Early Summer: Propagate the plant during its active growing season, typically in spring or early summer, to give the new divisions a better chance to establish.

2. Prepare the Materials

Supplies:
- Fresh potting mix (a well-draining blend like peat, perlite, and orchid bark)
- New pots with drainage holes
- Clean, sharp gardening tools (pruning shears or a knife)

3. Remove the Plant from the Pot

Gently Remove the Plant: Carefully take the Calathea Musaica out of its current pot. Be cautious with the roots, as they are delicate. You can lightly tap the pot or gently squeeze the sides to loosen the soil if needed.

4. Divide the Plant

Look for Natural Divisions: Inspect the plant’s root system to find natural clumps or sections that can be separated. The plant will often have multiple stems growing from the root ball, making it easy to identify divisions.
Separate the Roots: Using your hands or a clean knife, carefully divide the root ball into two or more sections. Ensure each section has a healthy root system and at least a few stems with leaves.

5. Repot the Divisions

Plant in Fresh Soil: Place each division into its own pot with fresh, well-draining soil. Ensure the roots are covered, and the plant is sitting at the same depth as it was in the original pot.
Water: Water the newly potted divisions thoroughly, ensuring the soil is moist but not waterlogged.

6. Provide Ideal Conditions

High Humidity and Indirect Light: Place the new plants in a warm, humid environment with bright, indirect light. Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
Avoid Stress: Avoid exposing the new divisions to extreme temperatures or drafts as they adjust to their new pots.

7. Monitor Growth

New Growth: It may take a few weeks for the plants to show new growth, indicating that they have established their root systems. Be patient and continue to provide optimal care.

By following these steps, you can successfully propagate Calathea Musaica and enjoy new plants with the same stunning mosaic-patterned foliage.

6 Benefits of Calathea Musaica Plant

Air Purification: Like many houseplants, Calathea Musaica helps purify the air by removing toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene. It improves indoor air quality, making your living environment healthier.
Aesthetic Appeal: With its unique mosaic-like foliage, Calathea Musaica adds a striking, decorative element to any room. Its intricate leaf patterns bring a natural and artistic touch to indoor spaces, making it a popular choice for plant lovers.
Low Light Tolerance: Calathea Musaica thrives in low to medium indirect light, making it a perfect plant for rooms with less sunlight. This adaptability allows it to brighten up areas like offices or bedrooms where other plants may struggle.
Stress Relief and Well-being: Keeping houseplants like Calathea Musaica can help reduce stress, promote relaxation, and enhance mental well-being. Its vibrant, calming presence can make your home feel more serene and connected to nature.
Humidity Regulation: Calathea Musaica naturally increases humidity levels in its surroundings through a process called transpiration, which can help improve the overall air moisture in dry indoor environments.
Non-Toxic to Pets: Unlike some houseplants, Calathea Musaica is non-toxic to cats and dogs, making it a safe choice for households with pets. You can enjoy its beauty without worrying about harm to your furry friends.

With these benefits, Calathea Musaica is not just a beautiful houseplant, but also a practical addition to your home or office environment.

Common Pests

Calathea Musaica is susceptible to a few common houseplant pests. Here are the main pests to watch out for and how to deal with them:

1. Spider Mites

Symptoms: Spider mites are tiny and often hard to spot, but you may notice fine webbing between the leaves or stems. The leaves may turn yellow or develop dry, stippled patches.
Solution: Increase humidity, as spider mites thrive in dry conditions. Wipe the leaves with a damp cloth or spray the plant with water to remove them. In severe infestations, use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Spider Mite Pest Control: How to Get Rid of Spider Mites

2. Mealybugs

Symptoms: Mealybugs appear as small, white, cotton-like clusters on the plant, often hiding in leaf joints or along stems. They feed on the plant’s sap, causing wilting or yellowing leaves.
Solution: Remove mealybugs with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. For larger infestations, use neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Mealybug Pest Control: How to Get Rid of Mealybugs

3. Aphids

Symptoms: Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that can be green, black, or white. They cluster on new growth, causing leaves to curl or yellow. They also leave behind a sticky residue known as honeydew.
Solution: Wash the plant with a strong spray of water to knock off the aphids. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent re-infestation.
Aphid Pest Control: How to Get Rid of Aphids

4. Thrips

Symptoms: Thrips are tiny, elongated insects that leave silvery streaks or spots on the leaves. They can also cause the leaves to curl or become distorted.
Solution: Remove infested leaves and use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat the plant. Regularly check the plant to catch infestations early.
Thrip Pest Control: How to Get Rid of Thrips

5. Fungus Gnats

Symptoms: Fungus gnats are small, black flies that thrive in overly moist soil. While adult gnats don’t damage the plant, their larvae can feed on the roots, leading to stunted growth.
Solution: Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Use sticky traps to catch adult gnats and consider adding a layer of sand to the top of the soil to prevent the larvae from emerging.
Fungus Gnat Pest Control: How to Get Rid of Fungus Gnats

Prevention Tips:

Maintain Proper Humidity: Calathea Musaica thrives in high humidity, which can help prevent certain pests like spider mites.
Avoid Overwatering: Excess moisture can attract pests like fungus gnats, so ensure the soil has good drainage and avoid overwatering.
Regularly Inspect the Plant: Check the leaves and stems for any signs of pests, and act quickly to prevent infestations from spreading.

By keeping an eye out for these common pests and taking preventative measures, you can keep your Calathea Musaica healthy and pest-free.

Common Problems

Calathea Musaica is a beautiful but sensitive plant that can face several issues if its care needs are not properly met. Here are some of the most common problems and how to address them:

1. Curling Leaves

Cause: Curling leaves are often a sign of underwatering or low humidity.
Solution: Increase the humidity around the plant by misting it regularly, using a humidifier, or placing it near other plants. Ensure you are watering the plant enough, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.

2. Yellowing Leaves

Cause: Yellow leaves may result from overwatering, poor drainage, or exposure to direct sunlight.
Solution: Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. Make sure the pot has proper drainage, and move the plant to a spot with indirect light if it’s exposed to direct sun.

3. Brown Leaf Edges or Tips

Cause: This is usually due to low humidity or the use of tap water with high levels of chemicals like fluoride or chlorine.
Solution: Increase the humidity and switch to distilled or filtered water to avoid chemical buildup. Regularly mist the plant and use a pebble tray to improve humidity.

4. Drooping Leaves

Cause: Drooping leaves can indicate both overwatering and underwatering.
Solution: Check the soil moisture. If it’s too dry, water the plant; if it’s too soggy, reduce watering and let the soil dry out a bit. Ensure the pot has good drainage.

5. Pale or Faded Leaves

Cause: Lack of sufficient light or overexposure to direct sunlight can cause pale or faded leaves.
Solution: Place the plant in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sun, which can bleach the leaves and fade their patterns.

6. Root Rot

Cause: Root rot occurs when the plant is overwatered, and the roots are left sitting in water, leading to fungal infections.
Solution: Remove the plant from the pot and trim away any affected roots. Repot in fresh, well-draining soil, and adjust your watering routine to avoid waterlogging.

7. Leggy Growth

Cause: Insufficient light can cause the plant to grow leggy and lose its compact shape as it stretches towards the light source.
Solution: Move the plant to a location with brighter, indirect light to encourage healthy growth.

8. Pests (Spider Mites, Mealybugs, Aphids)

Cause: Pests can attack Calathea Musaica, causing leaf damage, yellowing, or webbing.
Solution: Regularly inspect the plant for signs of pests. Use neem oil, insecticidal soap, or wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to keep pests at bay.

9. Slow Growth

Cause: Slow growth can occur if the plant is not receiving enough light, nutrients, or if the temperature is too low.
Solution: Ensure the plant is in a warm spot with indirect light, feed it a balanced fertilizer during the growing season, and keep the temperature between 65°F and 80°F (18°C to 27°C).

By addressing these common problems promptly, you can ensure that your Calathea Musaica remains healthy and vibrant.

FAQs

1. How often should I water my Calathea Musaica?

Answer: Water your Calathea Musaica when the top inch of soil feels dry. The plant prefers consistently moist soil, but it’s important not to let the soil become waterlogged. During the growing season (spring and summer), you may need to water more frequently. In winter, reduce watering slightly.

2. What kind of light does Calathea Musaica need?

Answer: Calathea Musaica thrives in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves and cause the colors to fade. It can also tolerate low light, but the growth may be slower.

3. Why are the edges of my Calathea Musaica’s leaves turning brown?

Answer: Brown leaf edges are usually caused by low humidity or the use of tap water containing chemicals like fluoride or chlorine. Increase humidity around the plant and switch to distilled or filtered water.

4. How can I increase humidity for my Calathea Musaica?

Answer: You can increase humidity by misting the plant regularly, placing it on a tray filled with water and pebbles, grouping it with other plants, or using a humidifier. Calathea Musaica prefers humidity levels above 60%.

5. Can I propagate my Calathea Musaica?

Answer: Yes, Calathea Musaica can be propagated through division. The best time to do this is during repotting in the spring or summer. Carefully separate the plant into sections, ensuring each has roots and leaves, and then pot the divisions in fresh soil.

6. What type of soil is best for Calathea Musaica?

Answer: Calathea Musaica prefers a light, well-draining soil mix. A mix containing peat, perlite, and orchid bark works well. This allows for good aeration and moisture retention without becoming too soggy.

7. Why are my Calathea Musaica’s leaves curling?

Answer: Curling leaves often indicate that the plant is either underwatered or the humidity is too low. Make sure the soil remains consistently moist and raise the humidity levels to help the leaves return to normal.

8. How often should I fertilize my Calathea Musaica?

Answer: Fertilize Calathea Musaica once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can burn the plant’s roots. You don’t need to fertilize during the fall and winter months.

9. Is Calathea Musaica pet-friendly?

Answer: Yes, Calathea Musaica is non-toxic to cats, dogs, and humans, making it a safe option for households with pets and children.

10. Why is my Calathea Musaica growing slowly?

Answer: Slow growth can be due to low light, inadequate nutrients, or cold temperatures. Make sure the plant is in bright, indirect light, keep it warm (65°F to 80°F), and feed it with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.

11. What should I do if my Calathea Musaica gets pests?

Answer: Common pests include spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. If you notice pests, wipe the leaves with a damp cloth, apply neem oil, or use insecticidal soap to treat the plant. Regularly check the plant to catch infestations early.

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