30 - 45cm Calathea Surprise Star Prayer Plant 12cm Pot House Plant

Calathea ‘Surprise Star’ is a stunning tropical houseplant known for its striking variegated foliage. A cultivar of the Calathea roseopicta species, this plant features large, oval-shaped leaves with a mesmerising combination of deep green edges, light green to cream variegation, and vibrant pink or purple hues running through the centre. The undersides of the leaves are a rich burgundy, adding to its dramatic and eye-catching appearance.

As part of the Marantaceae (prayer plant) family, Calathea ‘Surprise Star’ exhibits nyctinasty—a movement where its leaves rise and close at night and open again in the morning. Native to the tropical rainforests of South America, this plant thrives in warm, humid environments and is best suited for indoor cultivation.

While it can be more demanding than some other houseplants, with proper care, it rewards growers with its stunning colours and elegant growth.

Care Guide for Calathea ‘Surprise Star’

Light Requirements

Calathea ‘Surprise Star’ prefers bright, indirect light to maintain its vivid leaf colours.

• Ideal placement: Near an east- or north-facing window where it receives filtered light.
• Artificial light: Can grow under LED grow lights if natural light is insufficient.
• Avoid:
  • Direct sunlight—it can scorch the delicate leaves, causing fading or brown spots.
  • Low light—it may survive but will grow slowly and lose vibrancy.

Temperature & Humidity

Being a tropical plant, Calathea ‘Surprise Star’ thrives in warm temperatures and high humidity.

• Temperature range: 18–26°C (65–80°F). Avoid exposure to temperatures below 15°C (59°F).
• Humidity: 60% or higher is preferred.
  • Use a humidifier or a pebble tray to maintain moisture levels.
  • Misting can help but should be done sparingly to prevent fungal issues.
  • Avoid placing near air vents, heaters, or air conditioners that can dry out the air.

Watering

Calatheas are sensitive to water quality and require consistent moisture without being overwatered.

• Watering schedule:
  • Water when the top 2.5 cm (1 inch) of soil feels dry. Typically, this means watering every 5–7 days in summer and reducing to every 7–10 days in winter.
• Water type:
  • Use filtered, distilled, or rainwater, as tap water with high chlorine, fluoride, or minerals can cause leaf browning or curling.
• Method:
  • Water thoroughly until excess drains out, but never let the plant sit in standing water.

Soil Requirements

Calathea ‘Surprise Star’ requires a moisture-retentive yet well-draining soil mix. A good mix includes:

• 50% potting soil (rich in organic matter)
• 30% perlite (for aeration and drainage)
• 20% coconut coir or peat moss (to retain moisture without compacting)

A standard African violet mix also works well.

Fertilising

• Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertiliser (10-10-10 or 20-20-20) every 4 weeks during spring and summer.
• Reduce or stop fertilising in autumn and winter when growth slows.
• Avoid over-fertilising, as this can cause leaf tip burn.

Pruning & Maintenance

• Trim any yellowing or damaged leaves to encourage healthy new growth.
• Wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust and enhance photosynthesis.
• Rotate the plant occasionally to ensure even growth.

Pests & Diseases

Calathea ‘Surprise Star’ can be prone to pests and fungal issues if humidity and watering are not well-managed.

• Common pests:
  • Spider mites (in dry environments) – Increase humidity and wipe leaves with neem oil.
  • Mealybugs & aphids – Remove manually or use insecticidal soap.
• Common diseases:
  • Root rot (caused by overwatering) – Ensure well-draining soil and avoid soggy conditions.
  • Fungal leaf spots – Improve airflow and avoid wetting the leaves excessively.

Propagation

Calathea ‘Surprise Star’ is best propagated through division rather than stem cuttings.

1. During repotting, gently separate the plant into smaller clumps, ensuring each division has a healthy root system.
2. Plant each division in moist, well-draining soil.
3. Keep in a humid, warm environment until new growth appears.