If you’ve been captivated by the striking, patterned leaves of Calatheas, you might find yourself wondering: do Calatheas actually bloom??
While their foliage often steals the show, the answer might surprise you.
Yes, Calatheas can flower, though their blooms are a bit more subtle than their colorful leaves.
In this guide, we’ll explore when and how Calatheas flower, and what you can do to encourage those delicate blooms.
Do Calatheas Flower?
Yes, Calatheas can flower. However, their blooms are small and often hidden among the leaves. The flowers come in soft colors like white, purple, or yellow.
While they are lovely, most people grow Calatheas for their striking leaves, not their flowers.
Which Calatheas Are Known to Flower?
Some Calathea species are more likely to bloom, including:
- Calathea crocata: Known as the “Eternal Flame,” it produces bright orange or yellow flowers.
- Calathea warscewiczii: It may produce white or purple flowers under the right conditions.
- Calathea ornata: Though rare, it can flower indoors.
What Conditions Do Calatheas Need to Flower?
For a Calathea to flower, it needs the right environment. These tropical plants thrive in conditions similar to their natural habitat.
Key Factors for Blooming
- Light: Bright, indirect sunlight is ideal. Direct sunlight can harm the leaves and prevent flowering.
- Humidity: Calatheas love high humidity levels of 50-70%. Use a humidifier or pebble tray to maintain moisture.
- Temperature: Keep your plant in a warm spot with temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C).
- Soil and Watering: Use well-draining soil and keep it evenly moist, but avoid overwatering.
Pro Tip: Mist your Calathea regularly or place it near other plants to create a humid microclimate.
How to Help Your Calathea Flower
If you want your Calathea to bloom, here are some easy tips:
- Feed It Right: Use a balanced liquid fertilizer once a month during spring and summer. This provides nutrients that support flowering.
- Reduce Stress: Keep the plant in one spot. Moving it often can stress the plant, making it less likely to flower.
- Replicate Nature: Mimic tropical conditions with warm temperatures, high humidity, and steady care.
- Mist Regularly: Mist your Calathea regularly or place it near other plants to create a humid microclimate.
Learn more in: Do Calatheas Like to Be Misted? Tips for Healthy, Happy Plants
Common Problems with Calathea Flowering
If your Calathea isn’t flowering, don’t worry. Here are some common issues and how to fix them:
- Low Light: Move your plant to a spot with more indirect light.
- Dry Air: Increase humidity using a humidifier or by misting the leaves.
- Overwatering: Check that the soil drains well and adjust your watering schedule.
If your Calathea is drooping, visit our guide on Why Is My Calathea Drooping? for quick solutions.
Troubleshooting Table
| Problem | Solution |
| Low light | Move to a brighter spot |
| Dry air | Use a humidifier |
| Overwatering | Ensure proper soil drainage |
FAQs About Calatheas Flower
Can All Calatheas Flower?
Yes, all Calatheas can flower, but it’s rare indoors. They bloom more often in their natural environment.
What Do Calathea Flowers Look Like?
Calathea flowers are small, white, purple, or yellow, and grow in clusters.
How Often Do Calatheas Flower?
Calatheas typically bloom in spring and summer. With proper care, they can flower once or twice a year.
Is It Rare for Calathea to Flower?
Yes, it’s rare for Calatheas to flower indoors. Flowering is more common in their natural habitat.
Are Calathea Flowers Fragrant?
Most Calathea flowers are not fragrant. Their beauty lies in their unique leaves rather than their flowers.
Do Calatheas Flower When They Die?
No, Calatheas do not flower when they die. Flowering is a natural process, not a sign of decline.
Wrapping Up
While Calatheas are famous for their stunning leaves, their flowers add a subtle charm to these plants. By providing the right care including proper light, humidity, and nutrients, you can enjoy both their vibrant foliage and delicate blooms.
If you’re new to Calatheas or want to learn more about these fascinating plants, check out our comprehensive beginner’s guide on What is a Calathea Plant? A Complete Beginner’s Guide.
Happy Gardening!
