Product description
The clump-forming Calathea Rufibarba is also known as the Velvet or Furry Feather Calathea due to the tiny reddish hairs that grow from its stalks. These have a luxurious velvety feel and a rather dramatic appearance. From the stalks grow long wavy glossy green leaves with rich purple undersides, which produce an exotic flair.
Calathea Rufibarba is a variety of Prayer Plant and is native to tropical areas of the Americas - Brazil in particular. As such, it does best in a humid environment, which can be recreated by regular misting or a pebble tray. A bright spot out of direct sun is ideal. Your new plant will tolerate a shady position but you’ll find the leaf colour loses its vibrancy. Keep the plant away from draughts wherever possible. As long as you keep the soil moist but well-drained and give it the right amount of sunlight, you’ll find Velvet Calathea relatively easy to care for.
Growing your Calathea from its baby stage and watching it mature over time, from a tiny leafy stem to a healthy, fully grown plant is a delight to witness.
It’s not unusual to give your plant a name… so don’t hesitate to choose one that you think suits the plant! Try naming your plant with the first name or word that you think of when you look at it - that’s how we ended up with an orchid named Clover and spider plant called Joseph.
Furry Feather Calathea
Baby Calathea rufibarba
Baby Calathea rufibarba
Product description
The clump-forming Calathea Rufibarba is also known as the Velvet or Furry Feather Calathea due to the tiny reddish hairs that grow from its stalks. These have a luxurious velvety feel and a rather dramatic appearance. From the stalks grow long wavy glossy green leaves with rich purple undersides, which produce an exotic flair.
Calathea Rufibarba is a variety of Prayer Plant and is native to tropical areas of the Americas - Brazil in particular. As such, it does best in a humid environment, which can be recreated by regular misting or a pebble tray. A bright spot out of direct sun is ideal. Your new plant will tolerate a shady position but you’ll find the leaf colour loses its vibrancy. Keep the plant away from draughts wherever possible. As long as you keep the soil moist but well-drained and give it the right amount of sunlight, you’ll find Velvet Calathea relatively easy to care for.
Growing your Calathea from its baby stage and watching it mature over time, from a tiny leafy stem to a healthy, fully grown plant is a delight to witness.
It’s not unusual to give your plant a name… so don’t hesitate to choose one that you think suits the plant! Try naming your plant with the first name or word that you think of when you look at it - that’s how we ended up with an orchid named Clover and spider plant called Joseph.
House Plant Size Guide
House plants come in a wide array of shapes and sizes depending on the variety and maturity of the plant.
6cm/12cm/15cm/19cm/23cm nursery pots are the most common size of pot that they are sold in. This measurement is the diameter at the top of the pot.
12cm potted plants are the most popular providing great value for money and an instant impact. Larger plants that come in pots of 20cm+ are great for making a statement in any room and can represent years of growth to get to that level of maturity and size.
Plant specs, care guide & tips
Key features
Specifications
Instructions
Top Tip
Maintain high humidity around your Calathea to keep its leaves healthy and vibrant. Mist the foliage regularly or use a humidifier, especially during dry seasons. Clean the leaves occasionally with a damp cloth to remove dust and enhance their striking patterns. Rotate the pot every few weeks to ensure even growth and showcase its stunning display. With proper care, your Calathea will remain a standout feature in any room.
How to Water
Water Calathea regularly to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top 2–3 cm of soil to dry slightly between waterings to avoid overwatering. During warmer months, increase watering frequency, but reduce it in winter when growth slows. Use filtered or rainwater whenever possible, as Calathea plants are sensitive to the minerals in tap water, which can cause leaf browning.
How to Plant
To plant Calathea, choose a pot with good drainage and fill it with a light, well-draining potting mix, such as one enriched with peat or coco coir. Position the plant so the top of the root ball sits level with the soil surface, ensuring the crown is not buried. Backfill with soil, firm gently, and water thoroughly to settle the roots. Place the pot in a location with bright, indirect light to prevent leaf scorch while allowing the vibrant foliage to thrive.
