Goeppertia orbifolia

Calathea Orbifolia, Prayer Plant, Round-leaf Calathea, Calathea orbifolia

Moderate careTerrestrialNon-toxic30–90 cm

One of the largest Calathea relatives, with broad, round leaves carrying bold silvery-green and dark green stripes. A Brazilian Atlantic Forest understory species that needs consistent high humidity and indirect light. It works well in closed terrariums where stable moisture mirrors its native rainforest floor conditions, though its size calls for a larger enclosure.

Build a terrarium with this plant
Calathea Orbifolia image

Photo by Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz·CC BY-SA 4.0

Care

Prefers high humidity, indirect light, with 18–27 °C, and reaches 90 cm at maturity.

Light

Indirect light(preferred)Shade tolerant

Humidity

High (60–80%)(preferred)Very high (80%+)

Temperature

10°C25°C40°C
18°C – 27°C

Soil

Peat moss(preferred)Well draining

Moisture

Moist(preferred)

Soil pH

5.5 – 7

Propagation

Divide the rhizome during repotting in late spring or early summer. Each division needs several healthy stems and roots. This can be tricky — keep divisions substantial for the best chance of success.

Native range

Native to Brazil.

Appearance

Growth habit

ClumpingUpright

Leaf shape

Round

Leaf texture

SmoothLeathery

Frequently asked

Can Calathea Orbifolia grow in a closed terrarium?

Yes. Calathea Orbifolia prefers high (60–80%) humidity, which is what a closed terrarium provides, and tolerates indirect-light-loving conditions.

Does Calathea Orbifolia need drainage?

Calathea Orbifolia prefers a moist substrate. Drainage is helpful but not critical; consistent moisture matters more.

What humidity does Calathea Orbifolia need?

Calathea Orbifolia does best in high (60–80%) humidity.

Is Calathea Orbifolia pet-safe?

Calathea Orbifolia is considered non-toxic to common household pets.

How tall does Calathea Orbifolia grow?

Calathea Orbifolia typically reaches 30–90 cm at maturity.

How do you propagate Calathea Orbifolia?

Calathea Orbifolia can be propagated by division.

References

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