Calathea Rufibarba – Velvet Calathea – HydroCare

So-called Furry Feather or Velvet Calathea due to the tiny hairs that cover its waxy leaves and stems and give the plant a soft, velvety feel. Calathea rufibarba is a tall Calathea variety with red stems and deep blue-green, elongated leaves with a dark purple underside.

With a striking colour and shape, the HydroCare Velvet Calathea is incredibly popular for adding drama to restaurant dining rooms and hotel reception spaces but is also great at adding tropical indoor flair to all living spaces!

Horty Hints

Dinner time! Fertilising your plant during the growing season will keep it colourful, vibrant and will also encourage faster growth!

Pure, not pool. This plant is sensitive to chlorine in tap water, so allow it to stand overnight to diffuse before use.

What’s got you down? Leaf droop happens naturally during the day with some calathea, they then sit more upright at night, however if leaf droop is combined with dry air, the plant may need more humidity.

Light

As with most variegated plants, Calathea need plenty of diffused light. Direct sunlight will cause the leaves to fade and lose their markings. They can tolerate some degree of shade, but the more indirect light, the finer the foliage.

Watering

Keep an eye on the water meter. Water when the meter has been on minimum for 7 to 10 days to ensure moist but not wet conditions. Visit our HydroCare set up guide for more information.

Temperature

Prefers warm to high temperatures, ideally between 18-23°C, but can cope with as low as 15°C. Avoid draughts and ensure the plant has reasonable ventilation.

Humidity

High humidity levels are a must. Mist frequently to improve humidity conditions and pop it near the shower from time to time to give it an extra boost.

Feed

Add a Hydroculture liquid feed every 2 to 3 waterings during the spring and summer months.

HydroCare Plant Food

Height & Growth Rate

This Velvet Calathea is a moderately fast growing plant, ultimately reaching heights of around 80cm.

Toxicity

This Calathea is considered non-toxic, therefore safe around children and pets.

Air Purifying

This plant filters airborne toxins and is part of our clean air plant collection.

Origin

Calathea rufibarba originates from the Tropical Americas.

Please note: images show how this plant may look at various stages of maturity. The size you choose may look different.

View All Calathea