Zebra Plant Care Guide
About Zebra Plants
Zebra plants, also known as Calathea zebrina or Zebra Prayer Plant, are a type of tropical plant that is native to South America. They are known for their striking, striped leaves, which have green and cream-colored stripes running horizontally across them. Zebra plants are popular as houseplants because they are easy to care for and add a tropical touch to any indoor space. This plant care guide will walk you through all the tips and tricks for taking care of a zebra plant.
Basic Care Instructions and Requirements
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Zebra Plant, Calathea zebrina
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Aphelandra squarrosa
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Acanthaceae
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Compact Shrub, Rhizomatous
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Intermediate to Hard
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1-2 feet tall.
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Indirect Sunlight
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Well Draining
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pH 5.0-5.6
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Zones 11-12 (USDA)
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Tropical Regions of South America
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Non-Toxic to Cats and Dogs
Sunlight
Zebra plants are native to the tropical rainforests of South America, where they receive bright, indirect light. When grown as houseplants, they prefer a location with bright, indirect light, such as near a east or west-facing window. Avoid placing your zebra plant in direct sunlight, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. Too little light can also cause the plant's leaves to lose their vibrant stripes and become pale in color. If your zebra plant is not receiving enough light, you may notice that its leaves become elongated and droopy. To ensure that your zebra plant gets enough light, you can rotate it periodically to ensure that all sides of the plant are exposed to an equal amount of light.
Humidity
Zebra plants prefer a humidity level of around 50-70%. If the air in your home is too dry, you can increase the humidity around your zebra plant by misting the leaves regularly or using a humidifier. You can also place your zebra plant on a pebble tray filled with water to create a more humid environment. It is important to avoid placing your zebra plant in a location with drafts, as this can cause the leaves to become dry and brittle. Overall, by providing your zebra plant with the right amount of humidity, you can help it thrive and maintain its beautiful, striped leaves.
Temperature
The temperature should never drop below 65°F, any temperatures below will put your zebra plant at risk. The zebra plant is not the type of houseplant to keep outdoors, it should be in a highly regulated environment. Large fluctuations in temperatures may cause stunted growth. Always keep your zebra plant away from hefty drafts or air vents.
Watering
To care for a zebra plant, it is important to keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged. You can check the moisture level of the soil with your finger or a moisture meter and water the plant when the soil is dry to the touch. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely between watering and avoid getting water on the leaves of the plant. By providing the plant with the right amount of water, you can help it thrive and maintain its beautiful, striped leaves.
Best Soil For ZZ Plants
Zebra plants, also known as Calathea zebrina or Zebra Prayer Plant, prefer a soil that is well-draining.. A good soil mix for zebra plants includes a combination of potting soil and peat moss or coconut coir, as these materials help the soil retain moisture while still allowing excess water to drain away. You can also add perlite or vermiculite to the soil mix to improve drainage. It is important to avoid using soil that is too heavy or clay-like, as this can cause the soil to become waterlogged and lead to root rot.
Susceptible Pests & Diseases
Here is a list of common diseases and pests that can affect zebra plants:
Diseases:
Root rot
Leaf spot
Powdery mildew
Pests:
Aphids
Mealybugs
Spider mites
To prevent these problems from occurring, it is important to provide your zebra plant with the proper care, including the right amount of light, water, and humidity, and avoid overcrowding. If pests or diseases do occur, they can usually be controlled with the use of pesticides or other treatment methods.
Propagation
To propagate a zebra plant, follow these steps:
Cut a stem from a mature, healthy plant just below a leaf node.
Dip the cut end in rooting hormone.
Plant the stem in a well-draining soil mix in a small pot or container.
Place the pot in a location with bright, indirect light and keep the soil moist.
After a few weeks, new growth should appear on the stem. Once established, transplant the plant to a larger pot or garden.
Frequently Asked Questions
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According to the ASPCA, zebra plants re non-toxic for cats and dogs. Always be careful with keeping any plants near your furry friends.
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The most common reason the leaves on your zebra plant are turning brown is due to humidity issues. This houseplant has temperamental humidity needs, if your plant is not receiving enough moisture, it may be time to invest in a humidifier.
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When growing indoors, it can grow up to 2 feet. In prime conditions outdoors, the zebra plant can grow up to 7 feet tall!
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Yes, the zebra plant is also known as the calathea zebrina.