Almost circular leaves
Broad blades create a soft, rounded silhouette.
18
Calathea orbifolia 12cm
Normal price
€11,50
What does the legal guarantee mean for plants?
The legal guarantee concerns the plant’s conformity at delivery. It is not a guarantee of survival or growth for two years. Each issue is assessed taking into account the nature of the plant, its care and the conditions in which it is kept. Your statutory rights remain unaffected.
Calathea orbifolia
With leaves like these, who needs a fan? 🪭
- Marantaceae
- Almost circular leaves
- A silvery rhythm
- Foliage in motion
- Drainage holes required
Calathea orbifolia stands out for broad, almost round leaves and soft silver bands following the veins. The repeated pattern creates a calm, graphic appearance, with each leaf resembling an individual fan.
Long leaf stalks allow the leaves to spread in different directions, adding volume without a heavy appearance. It suits anyone who enjoys greenery as a central decorative feature and values texture and shape over vivid colour.
What makes it special
Three details that shape its character.
A silvery rhythm
Alternating green and silvery green bands follow the natural veins.
Foliage in motion
Leaf position changes through the daily cycle, subtly animating its silhouette.
Why you will love it: For its broad, calm patterns, which create character without relying on flowers.
In your space Position & plant pairings Placement, form and complementary plants
Where it looks its best
In a bright position with filtered light and room around the leaves. Avoid busy passages where foliage is brushed repeatedly and positions beside radiators.
Plants to display alongside it
Create a group in compatible light, keeping each plant in its own pot. Check watering, roots and seasonal growth individually; these are display pairings, not a shared planting.
- Maranta leuconeura — for a lower, spreading shape.
- Goeppertia makoyana — for a smaller, detailed leaf pattern.
- Asplenium nidus — for solid green and flowing lines.
Care at a glance
Light
Bright filtered light without strong direct sun, which can mark the leaves.
Watering
Keep the mix lightly moist, not saturated. Water as the surface begins to dry, before the whole root ball dries out, and drain thoroughly.
Climate
Aim for a steady temperature around 18–24°C. Avoid cold draughts, sudden changes and contact with cold glass.
Safety
It is not food or a toy. Prevent persistent chewing rather than relying on appearance to judge safety.
For this plant
Substrate & feeding
Detailed care Complete care guide Light, water, climate, roots and feeding
Light and position
Bright filtered light without strong direct sun, which can mark the leaves.
Watering according to drying
Keep the mix lightly moist, not saturated. Water as the surface begins to dry, before the whole root ball dries out, and drain thoroughly.
Air and humidity
It appreciates higher, steady humidity with gentle airflow. Dry heated air can contribute to brown edges.
Temperature and season
Aim for a steady temperature around 18–24°C. Avoid cold draughts, sudden changes and contact with cold glass.
Substrate and roots
An airy mix that maintains even moisture, in a pot with drainage holes. Prefer low-mineral water, such as suitably filtered water.
Feeding and repotting
Feed only during active growth, using a suitable foliage fertiliser at the label rate. Do not add water just to feed. If a new mix includes starter nutrition, allow for it before adding more fertiliser. Pause during stress or rest. Repot only when roots fill the pot, moving up by one size.
Botanical identity Identity & origin The species, cultivated form and natural background
The current name
Goeppertia orbifolia is the accepted botanical name of the species still widely known as Calathea orbifolia.
The Marantaceae family
It belongs to the same family as marantas, with characteristic leaf movement.
Tropical South America
The species is associated with humid tropical forest conditions beneath taller vegetation.
Greenleaf for Plant Nerds Scientific facts nobody asked for A closer look at plant structure and function
A joint in the petiole
The swollen motor tissue at the base of the blade is called a pulvinus and allows leaf position to change.
Nyctinastic movement
Movement involves changes in water pressure within cells rather than permanent bending of the petiole.
Rhizomatous growth
New shoots arise from an underground rhizome. A detached leaf alone is not a complete cutting.
Directional veins
Lateral veins spread from the midrib towards the edge, organising the characteristic pattern.
Frequently asked questions
Practical answers about this plant’s needs and behaviour.
01 Why does it lift its leaves at night?
Daily repositioning is normal. It does not by itself mean the plant needs water.
02 Should the soil dry completely?
No. Check the surface and water before the entire root ball dries, without leaving standing water.
03 Why are the edges browning?
Dry air, mineral build-up or uneven watering may contribute. Check the conditions as a whole.
04 Can it stand in sunshine?
Avoid strong direct sun. A sheer curtain diffuses light near a very bright window.
05 How is it propagated?
By carefully dividing an established plant so each section has roots and growing points, rather than from a single leaf.
📦 Your plant travels protected
Every order is prepared with care so your plant arrives upright, secure and safe.
Individual protection
Plants in pots with a capacity of 3 litres or more are placed in individual boxes that hold the pot securely and reduce the risk of tipping over.
Sturdy packaging
We use reinforced cardboard designed to protect against impacts and vibration during transport.