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Calathea rufibarba 12cm H25cm

Calathea rufibarba 12cm H25cm

Regular price £24.00 GBP
Regular price Sale price £24.00 GBP
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Pot Size

Meet the Velvet Calathea—the "furry" fashionista of the prayer-plant world. With her long, slender, wavy leaves that are deep green on top and royal purple underneath, she’s a tactile wonder. She’s famously soft to the touch and performs a nightly ritual, folding her velvety leaves up to sleep!

  • The Formal Name: Goeppertia (Calathea) rufibarba
  • The Nickname: Furry Feather or Velvet Calathea
  • Roots: A tropical beauty native to the humid rainforests of Brazil.
  • Natural Vibe: Dwelling in the dappled, humid shade of the jungle floor.

Care Guide

  • Care Guide:
  • Sunlight: She loves medium, indirect light. Direct sun is her nemesis and will bleach her rich purple undersides.
  • Best Room: A humid bathroom or a shaded corner of a bright living room.
  • Snacks: A weak liquid fertiliser every 4 weeks during the spring and summer growing season.
  • Tropical Feels: High humidity (60%+) is a must to keep her velvety edges from turning crispy.
  • Cosy Factor: Happy between 18–24°C. Keep her away from icy winter drafts!
  • Thirst: Keep soil consistently moist but never soggy. She’s a fan of filtered or rainwater.
  • Safety First: Non-toxic – perfectly safe for curious cats, dogs, and children.
  • The Bedding: A moisture-retentive but well-draining potting mix.
  • Family Tree: Best propagated by carefully dividing the root clump during repotting.
  • Space Needs: Can grow into a lush clump reaching 60–90 cm in height.
  • Speed: A steady, moderate grower that rewards consistency.
  • Uninvited Guests: Watch for spider mites if the air gets too dry.
  • Moving Day: Repot every 1–2 years in spring to refresh her soil.
  • Haircut: Snip off any yellowing lower leaves at the base to keep her silhouette tidy.
  • Fresh Air: An excellent natural air purifier that adds texture and life to your home.
  • Plant Lore: Her name "rufibarba" means "red beard," referring to the fuzzy, hair-like texture on her stems!
  • Care support

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