Calatheas are fascinating plants from Central and South America, popular for their striking foliage. Their large leaves with eye-catching stripes bring a tropical feel to any indoor or outdoor space. While not difficult to grow, understanding Calathea’s care needs is key to their optimal health and vibrancy. From consistent watering to providing your plants with the right lighting conditions, it can make all the difference in how happy they feel.

This comprehensive guide will focus on Calathea light requirements, including the effects of too little or too much light. We’ll also share with you helpful prevention tips and solutions on how to fix common light-related problems with your plant

About Calathea Plants 

Calathea plants are beautiful tropical houseplants with large and colorfully patterned leaves. They belong to the Marantaceae family and are often called prayer plants because their leaves move up at night, resembling hands in prayer. 

Calatheas are easy to care for and thrive in bright, indirect light and high humidity. They symbolize new beginnings so you can gift Calatheas on housewarming occasions, weddings, anniversaries, or graduations. One of their best qualities is that they are non-toxic to cats and dogs.

There are many stunning varieties of Calathea, such as the popular Peacock Plant (Calathea roseopicta) with patterned leaves that resemble a peacock’s feathers. Calathea Rattlesnake (Calathea lancifolia) is another popular yet rare-to-find option. It features wavy, sword-shaped leaves with dark green strokes and a purple underside. If you want a sophisticated plant, consider the Calathea Orbifolia (Calathea orbifolia); it has wide, round leaves with silvery-green stripes. These gorgeous varieties add a touch of tropical elegance to any space. 

But how much light does a Calathea need to help it thrive?

Calathea Plant Light Requirements: Growing Tips

Calathea light needs are similar to those of many other houseplants. Correct light exposure ensures that the plant maintains its vibrant, decorative foliage. It also helps it develop strong stems and a healthy root system.  

How Much Light Does a Calathea Need? 

Do Calatheas like lots of light? The answer is no! These pet-friendly plants prefer bright to medium indirect or filtered sunlight to thrive. If you grow them outdoors, 4-6 hours of gentle morning sunlight is generally sufficient.

What Kind of Light Does a Calathea Need? 

Calatheas naturally grow on tropical forest floors and are exposed to dappled light through the canopy of trees. So to mimic their natural environment, a spot with indirect light is the best place for your plant. Direct sunlight can harm this plant’s delicate leaves, causing sunburn or fading their vibrant colors. 

Can Calathea Grow in Low Light?

Are Calatheas low-light plants? While Calatheas can tolerate low light, they don’t do well in such conditions. Too little light can make the plant grow slower, besides affecting its leaf variegation. If natural light is limited, a grow light can help to keep your Calathea healthy and happy.

How to Tell If a Prayer Plant Is Getting Enough Light?

Although a prayer plant can tolerate low light, too little sunlight can lead to yellow leaves and less prominent variegation. You should also watch out for other signs to know whether your Calathea is getting enough light, such as:

• Leaves losing their vibrant color

• Leggy growth

• Smaller leaves 

• Drooping leaves 

• Leaf movement is affected, due to the lack of light to respond to

Calathea Low Light: Issues and Fixes

If your Calathea struggles in low light, move it to a spot with bright, indirect light, near a north- or east-facing window. If there’s no natural light, use a grow lamp to help. Don’t overwater, as the soil will dry slower in low light, which can cause root rot. Finally, wipe the leaves occasionally to keep them clean and better at absorbing light.

Can Calathea Plants Get Too Much Sun? 

While Calathea plants require bright light to thrive, direct sunlight can harm their foliage. Exposing Calathea to full sun for prolonged periods can scorch its delicate leaves, causing them to fade, curl, or develop brown edges. Place this tropical beauty in bright, indirect light for best growth. A spot near a window with sheer curtains works well as it protects the plant from harsh sunlight while providing the right amount of light.

How Do I Know If My Calathea Is Getting Too Much Light?

If your Calathea is in full sun and receives too much light, keep an eye out for the following signs: 

• Fading leaf color

• Development of brown spots or crispy edges

• Leaves curling inwards

• Bleached spots on foliage

• Sunburned leaves

Calathea Too Much Light: Solutions and Prevention 

If your prayer plant is exposed to too much light, move it to a shadier spot with filtered light. Alternatively, you can use sheer curtains to block direct sunlight from harming your Calathea. Maintain humidity by misting the plant regularly or using a humidifier. Monitor the soil to ensure it stays evenly moist but not too dry, and keep the plant away from heaters or hot air vents.

Calathea Plant Lighting & Facts: FAQs

Q: Can Calathea survive in artificial light?

A: Calathea can survive in artificial light but prefers indirect sunlight. If natural light isn’t available, use grow lights instead. Ensure the light isn’t too strong or close to the plant, as it might damage the leaves. Still, Calatheas are adaptable, making them a good choice for offices or bedrooms.

Q: How often do you water a Calathea?

A: Water your Calathea when the top inch of soil feels dry. Don’t let it dry out completely, as it likes moist but not soggy soil. Usually, watering once a week is fine, but it also depends on your home’s humidity and temperature. Always use filtered or distilled water to keep the leaves healthy and vibrant.

Q: Why are my Calathea leaves curling and crispy?

A: Curling and crispy Calathea leaves usually mean the plant is unhappy. It could be, due to direct sunlight, underwatering, low humidity, or poor water quality. Move the plant to a place with filtered light. Check the soil and humidity levels, and mist the plant if needed. Use filtered or distilled water to avoid chemicals that can harm the leaves. Fixing these issues should help your plant recover.

Q: Where is the best place to put a Calathea?

A: The best spot for a Calathea is where it gets bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight as much as possible, as it can burn the leaves. A place with high humidity, like your kitchen, is ideal. Keep your plant away from cold drafts and air conditioners to keep it lush and vibrant.

Q: Are Calathea plants toxic to pets?

A: No, Calathea plants are not toxic to pets. They are safe for cats and dogs, so you don’t have to worry about your furry friends. Nevertheless, monitor your pets around houseplants to ensure they don't ingest a huge quantity.

Q: Do Calatheas like bathrooms?

A: Yes, Calatheas love bathrooms with windows. They provide high humidity for your plant while it’s protected from harsh sun rays. Just ensure they get enough light, even artificial, to keep their leaves looking fresh and beautiful.

Conclusion

Knowing Calathea light requirements is key to keeping these beautiful plants healthy and vibrant. While the plant thrives in bright, indirect light, it can tolerate low light, too. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight, which can harm its delicate leaves and variegation, and always monitor for signs of too much or too little light. 

Consider pairing your Calathea with other humidity-loving plants like Peace Lilies, Ferns, or Spider Plants for a lush indoor garden. With proper care, your prayer plant can be a stunning centerpiece.