Calathea Dottie

• Native to South American rainforests, Calathea Dottie belongs to the prayer plant family known for their leaf movements. Leaves rise and fold each evening in response to light changes.
• Features deep purple-black leaves with striking pink veining and bright fuchsia undersides that create stunning colour contrasts. Young leaves emerge tightly rolled before unfurling.
• Compact growth habit reaches 40-60cm tall and wide, making it perfect for tabletops, plant stands, or floor displays in medium-sized pots.
• Plant lovers adore Dottie for its dramatic foliage colours, fascinating leaf movements, and air-purifying qualities that make any indoor space feel tropical and vibrant.

• Water every 5-7 days in summer, 7-10 days in winter when top inch of soil is dry. Use filtered or rainwater to prevent brown leaf tips from chemicals.
• Place in bright, indirect light away from direct sun which fades the purple colours. East-facing windows or filtered light through curtains work perfectly.
• Use well-draining potting mix with peat, perlite, and bark for moisture retention without waterlogging. Ensure pots have drainage holes.
• Feed monthly with diluted liquid fertiliser during spring and summer growing season. Avoid fertilising in winter when growth slows naturally.
• Remove dead or damaged leaves at base with clean scissors. No pruning needed as plant maintains compact shape naturally.
• Maintain 50-60% humidity with pebble trays, grouping plants, or humidifiers to prevent brown leaf edges and pest problems.
• Keep temperatures 18-24°C year-round and protect from cold drafts, heaters, and air conditioning vents that cause stress.

• Provide bright, indirect light near east-facing windows or filtered light through sheer curtains. Avoid direct sunlight which scorches leaves and fades colours. Rotate weekly for even growth.
• Water when top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 5-7 days in summer, less in winter. Use filtered water at room temperature to prevent leaf damage. Empty saucers after 30 minutes.
• Maintain 50-60% humidity using pebble trays, grouping with other plants, or humidifiers. Dry air causes brown edges and pest problems. Avoid misting leaves directly.
• Keep temperatures between 18-24°C year-round, away from heaters, air conditioners, and cold drafts. Cold stress causes leaves to curl and lose colour.
• Reduce watering in winter when growth slows and increase humidity as indoor heating dries air. Move away from heat sources during cooler months.

• Spider mites thrive in dry conditions, causing fine webbing and stippled leaves. Increase humidity and spray with neem oil weekly. Wipe leaves regularly to prevent infestations.
• Overwatering leads to root rot and yellowing leaves with musty soil odour. Allow top inch of soil to dry between waterings. Ensure pots have drainage holes and use well-draining potting mix.
• Brown leaf tips indicate low humidity or fluoride in tap water. Use filtered or rainwater and place on pebble trays. Mist around the plant, not directly on leaves.
• Aphids cluster on new growth, causing curled leaves and sticky honeydew. Spray with insecticidal soap solution weekly. Remove affected leaves and isolate plant until treated.