Vittata Calathea

Vittata Calathea (Calathea 'Vittata') is a small calathea, about 30cm tall and 20cm wide, with shiny dark green leaves striped symmetrically in white. It is dramatic without being overpowering, and its size suits desks, shelves and shaded corners. Like other calatheas it wants warmth, humidity and indirect light.

Why you'll love it

• Tidy white stripes. Each shiny dark green leaf carries a symmetrical pattern of white stripes, which looks crisp and deliberate.
• A small footprint. At about 30cm by 20cm it fits a desk, a shelf or the front of a shaded display.
• Shiny leaves. The glossy surface reflects light and brightens a dim corner.
• Eye catching but calm. The pattern is striking without being overly busy, so it works with other houseplants.
• Pet friendly. Calatheas are not considered toxic to cats and dogs.

Where it works best

Desks and shelves. It is small enough for a bright shelf or a side table, away from heaters and draughts.

Grouped in a pot. Plant three together in a shallow bowl of moisture retaining mix for a compact, striped display.

Tropical accent planting. In frost free gardens, plant 25cm apart at the front of a shaded bed to make a low, patterned edging.

Growing Vittata Calathea in Australia

Position and climate. A shady spot with indirect sunlight. It needs temperatures over 15C, so outdoors it suits tropical and subtropical gardens only. Elsewhere, keep it indoors or on a sheltered patio in summer.

Soil. Moisture retaining soil or a good quality potting mix. Choose a pot with drainage holes.

Water and feed. Water regularly during the first 12 weeks and regularly once established. Mist regularly if the air is dry, and wipe the leaves gently with a damp cloth to free them of dust. Apply a nitrogen rich slow release fertiliser every three months for vibrant, healthy foliage.

Pruning. No pruning is needed. Simply remove old leaves at the base for a quick tidy up.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell Vittata Calathea as tube stock, a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly, and in 140mm pots in packs of 10. It stays small at maturity, so the packs of 10 suit a shaded border, while a single tube is plenty for a desk. Keep it warm and out of cold draughts when it arrives.

Tube stock comes from our grower and is not always available. When the tube shows as sold out, the grower has none ready at the moment, and the notify button on this page emails you the day it is back.

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 calathea range
• Indoor plants
• Low light indoor plants
• Calathea care guide for Australian homes

Common questions

How big does Vittata Calathea get?

Around 30cm tall and 20cm wide, so it is a small calathea. It suits a tabletop, a shelf or the front of a shaded display.

Can it live outdoors?

Only in a warm, shady, frost free spot in a tropical or subtropical climate. It needs temperatures over 15C, so in cooler regions grow it indoors or on a sheltered patio in summer.

What causes brown leaf tips?

Mainly dry air. Mist the leaves regularly, keep the plant away from heaters and draughts, and wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to keep them clean.