Welcome to the fascinating world of Calathea Network, also known as network prayer plant, Maranta Bella, Goeppertia Bella, Calathea Bella, and Goeppertia kegeljanii ‘Network’. This stunning houseplant is very easy to take care of and is non-toxic to cats and dogs. With its lance-shaped leaves and dark green veins, it creates a mesmerizing pattern that resembles a digital network. A Calathea Network requires consistently moist soil and bright indirect light. Join us as we explore how to create and maintain the perfect Calathea Network!
Get to Know the Network Calathea Plant
The Network Calathea Plant is a sought-after houseplant that is perfect for desks and tabletops. It features lance-shaped leaves with striking dark green veins, forming an intricate pattern resembling a digital network. When the leaves are backlit, the effect is truly impressive.
It is also known as the Network Prayer Plant, Maranta Bella, Goeppertia Bella, Calathea Bella and Goeppertia kegeljanii ‘Network’.
Caring for a Network Calathea Plant
When it comes to caring for your Network Calathea Plant, the most important thing is watering. It is difficult, but the Calathea Network requires consistently moist soil without it being too wet. When the top inch of soil has dried out, deep water your plant. Generally speaking, you should water your plants about once every 5-8 days; however, this frequency may be lower during winter months when growth slows down and the plant needs less moisture.
In addition to watering, Calathea musaica has very low requirements for trimming. You can just remove dead or damaged leaves intermittently. If you want to cut them off above the soil level, use sterile, sharp pruning shears.
Is the Network Calathea Plant Toxic to Cats?
When it comes to safety, one of the most important questions you may have about your Network Calathea Plant is if it is toxic to cats. Fortunately, the answer is no; these plants are non-toxic to cats and dogs. This makes them an ideal addition to any home that has pets or small children present.Not only are they safe for household animals, but they also bring a splash of color and texture into any room in your home with their lance-shaped leaves and intricate network patterns. As an added bonus, they can tolerate lower light levels making them easier to care for than some other houseplants.
The Prayer Plant, or Calathea Network as it’s sometimes referred to, is known for its beautiful leaves that burst into life when the sun shines on them and close up again when darkness falls. It’s a very calming plant to have around and is one of the most pet-friendly plants you can choose.
However, if your cat has eaten any part of the plant it is important to be aware that although Calathea plants are not toxic, they can cause gastrointestinal upset if consumed in large quantities. If you notice any signs of illness in your cat after they have eaten a Calathea plant, it is best to contact your veterinarian for advice.
It is also important to note that cats may eat calathea plants out of boredom or because they are attracted to the leaves fluttering in the air currents. If your cat is constantly nibbling on your Calathea, you may want to look into ways to provide them with more stimulation and entertainment, such as puzzle feeders or interactive toys. This will help keep them occupied and away from your beloved houseplants.
How to Propagate a Network Calathea Plant
When it comes to propagating your Network Calathea Plant, you’ll need to be aware that this type of plant cannot be propagated from a single leaf or stem cutting. The only way to propagate them is by dividing the parent plant. This involves carefully removing the plant from its pot and separating the roots into multiple sections before replanting each section in separate pots. It is important that you use sterile, sharp pruning shears when performing this task as it will help ensure that no diseases are spread throughout your plants. Additionally, make sure that each division has at least three leaves and a good portion of the root system intact so they have enough nutrients to survive. Finally, repot your divided plants with fresh soil and water them immediately after planting them in their new pots.
Repotting Your Network Calathea Plant
The soil you use for your Network Calathea is also very important. The best soil for this plant should be lightweight and well-draining so that it can retain moisture but also allow excess water to easily pass through. You can use a generic potting mix, however it is recommended to incorporate coco coir, fine moss, or perlite into the mix in order to improve the organic matter composition and drainage. This will help ensure that your Network Calathea Plant has enough water without becoming waterlogged or having its roots rot due to poor drainage.
Additionally, the soil should be slightly acidic with a pH of around 6.5 for optimal growth.
When it comes to changing the soil, it is important to be gentle with your plant. Start by placing the plant in the center of a pot that is slightly larger than its current one. Fill in new soil around the root ball and pat down firmly but gently. Water thoroughly and then place your Network Calathea Plant in an area with bright indirect light. As a result of this shock, your plant may take 2-4 weeks to adjust to its new surroundings.
The best time to repot your Network Calathea is in the spring. When you are ready to repot, remove the mother plant from the pot and discard all of the old soil. Gently split and spread out the roots so that there are two to seven leaves per section. Then, fill two new pots with a good soil mix and press firmly into each pot.
Conclusion
The network calathea plant is the perfect houseplant for any home, with its low maintenance and striking leaves. It requires consistently moist soil, but not too wet, and best grown in an area with bright indirect light. It is non-toxic to cats and dogs, and its lance-shaped leaves with dark green veins form a pattern that resembles a digital network. With its perfect size, it is the ideal plant for desks and tabletops.