Velvet Calathea

Velvet Calathea (Calathea rufibarba) is a larger, softer calathea that grows about 1m tall and wide. The narrow, rippled leaves are deep green above and burgundy below, with a plush, velvety feel when you run a hand over them. It suits a shaded patio container, tropical-style underplanting in frost-free gardens and bright rooms indoors.

Why you'll love it

• Velvet to touch. The leaves have a soft, plush feel that sets it apart from the glossier calatheas.
• Burgundy undersides. Deep green, rippled leaves are backed with burgundy, so the plant shows two colours as the foliage moves.
• Real size. At about 1m by 1m it makes a proper leafy clump, not just a table plant.
• Small yellow flowers. Once it is mature and settled, little yellow flowers appear low down among the stems.
• Safe around pets. Calatheas are non-toxic to cats and dogs.

Where it works best

Shaded patio containers. A large pot filled with quality potting mix suits a covered, sheltered patio in a warm climate, where the leaves stay out of harsh sun.

Tropical-style underplanting. In frost-free gardens, plant about 80cm apart under trees or along a shaded wall to build a lush ground layer.

Indoors. Give it space and bright, indirect light. At 1m wide it needs a corner of its own, away from heaters and direct sun.

Growing Velvet Calathea in Australia

Position and climate. Bright shade out of direct sun suits it. It is for frost-free gardens, so in tropical and subtropical regions it can go outside in sheltered shade, and in cooler regions it is best kept indoors or on a sheltered patio.

Soil. Use a good quality, moisture-holding potting mix. A free draining blend with coir and perlite keeps the roots moist without waterlogging.

Water and feed. Water steadily through the first 12 weeks and keep the same routine once it is established. Mist if the air is dry. Apply a slow release fertiliser once a year, with a liquid feed every three months for vibrant, healthy foliage.

Pruning. Remove old leaves for a quick tidy-up, cutting them off at the base of the stem.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell Velvet Calathea as tube stock, a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly, in 140mm pots in packs of 10, in 200mm pots in packs of 6 and in 300mm pots singly. Because it matures at about 1m, the larger pots give a fuller plant sooner, while tubes are the economical choice for planting a shaded bed. Keep the plant warm and out of cold draughts when it arrives.

Plants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.

Plant care guides and related reading

• Browse the full calathea range
• Plants that suit pots and containers
• More tropical plants
• The complete calathea care guide

Common questions

How big does Velvet Calathea grow?

About 1m tall and 1m wide, which is larger than most calatheas. It needs a spacious corner or a big container.

Will it flower?

Yes. A mature, settled plant sends up little yellow flowers low among the stems, though the leaves are the main attraction.

Can I plant it outside?

Only in frost-free gardens, in sheltered shade. In cooler climates, grow it in a pot indoors or on a protected patio.