44 Calathea Varieties and Types That Are Visually Stunning

Table of Contents

Most Common Calathea Types to Grow
Banana Plant-like Calathea Types
Rarest Calathea Types for Indoor Garden
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Calathea varieties are popular nowadays among nature enthusiasts since they have unique characteristics described by striking and contrasting color palettes. This color scheme brings a bright hue of pink, green, and purple into the house.

If you have the right luck, you could even grow Calathea which has white, orange, or yellow blossoms that will enhance its beauty to the plant. Furthermore, Calathéas can be found from the most beginner-friendly pinstriped zebras to a more needy Peacock or a beautiful rosy Calathea.

Since Calathéas are tropical plants, they are highly resistant to high temperatures. Other than that, this pet-friendly shrub needs medium-high humidity, approximately more than 50%. Hence, these Calathea plants work great as home and bathroom decor.

The selection of the most popular hybrids is difficult, yet it does not mean you cannot pick one. Here, we created a list of visually stunning Calathea varieties you can try to grow in your home.

From the most common ones for beginners to the rarest Calathea, you can surely have some insights on which Calathea is the best for you.

Most Common Calathea Types to Grow

“There are more than 300 Calathea varieties recognized, but 60 of them are known as ornamental plants.”

Nonetheless, some Calathea varieties are well-known because they are easy to grow. If collecting Calathea is a brand new activity for you, then you have just found a perfect guideline to broaden your knowledge regarding Calathea plants.

Let’s review the uniqueness of them one by one!

1. Calathea lancifolia (Rattlesnake Plant)

Calathea lancifolia is a widespread plant of Calathea species. The reptile-like markings on the foliage make this species known as the Rattlesnake Plant.

calathea varieties — *Calathea lancifolia (Rattlesnake Plant)*

Its deep-green leaf forms elliptical circles with a light green background that looks exceptionally attractive. It is also considered the easiest Calathea to care for, making it an excellent starting point for a beginner.

2. Calathea roseopicta ‘Medallion’

This type of Calathea is often called Rose Painted Calathea. The ‘Medallion’ has glossy and forest green leaves on top and deep purple at the bottom.

Compared to other cultivars, this beautiful plant has a more outstanding silver hint on the mid-rib and is less prone to brown leaf tips. In addition, its particular layering motif creates an outline of the leaves pattern.

3. Calathea concinna ‘Freddie’

Characterized by its zebra stripe patterns with glossy light green foliage makes this Brazilian tropical plant is a must-have for Calathea lovers. The leaves can turn slightly silvery-green when exposed to dim light.

Interestingly, it can emit light sweet-scented under specific growing conditions, especially in the spring.

4. Calathea makoyana (Peacock plant)

Add tropical jungle vibes to your house with Calathea makoyana! This type of Calathea is undoubtedly famous as Peacock Plant since it features beautiful deep green foliage patterns that truly mirror the beauty of Peacock feathers.

Moreover, the wavy, shiny, and silver streaks on top of the leaves further enhance the appearance of this Peacock plant.

5. Calathea rufibarba (Furry Feather calathea)

Furry Feather Calathea or known as Calathea rufibarba has underside leaves covered with tiny hairs. A dark purple color can be seen at the bottom of the leaves, while a light green mid-rib creates an appealing color gradation with dark green leaves as the background.

For that reason, it is also known as Velvet Calathea. Besides its hairs, the long slender leaves make this species different from others.

6. Calathea picturata Crimson

Known for its distinctive pink color with deep green to black on the leaf edges, Calathea picturata Crimson indeed provides you visually stunning sight in your home.

Its captivating color is sure to take the stage among other Calatheas varieties. Furthermore, this lovely plant will show its best performance in spring or summer, where it can get proper humidity to grow.

7. Calathea Dottie

Even though it has the same species as Calathea Medallion, the appearance of Calathea Dottie is completely different. Instead of predominantly green on top, this plant has purple undersides with a deep green blade and pink mid-rib.

In addition, a line of pink motif resembles the outline of a leaf on the top, which makes this Calathea plant look like a magical work of art.

8. Calathea Illustris

Calathea Illustris is a variety of Calathea roseopicta, which has deep purple undersides with a leaf outline motif on top. Unlike the Medallion, this Calathea plant highlights pink to magenta stripes on its vein and leaf outline motif.

In addition, the darker green part is more dominant than the light ones.

9. Calathea cora

Calathea cora has a deep green shade that dominates the leaf blade and veins, forming a fish spine pattern. Meanwhile, the mature plants will result in a pinkish color on the upper side of the leaves.

It gives an amazing effect as if the purple undersides penetrate the leaf and blend away with the bright green, creating a beautiful pink on top.

10. Calathea zebrina

Calathea zebrina or Zebra Plant is Calathea species that has zebra markings, just like its name. Slightly similar to Calathea concinna, only the motif is more elongated with a darker green color.

Moreover, Calathea zebrina is considered one of the easiest Calathea varieties to care for and is widely known for its attractive pattern and glossy leaves.

11. Calathea crocata ‘Eternal Flame’

Many Calathea are well known because of the beautiful leaves they have. But, it is a little bit different when it comes to Calathea crocata. They have vibrant orange flowers contrasting with green grass – the reason why it resembles a flame.

Thanks to the distinct colors, the flower of Calathea crocata can surely steal the attention of anyone who sees it.

12. Calathea loeseneri (Star Calathea)

Calathea loeseneri or Star Calathea is one of the few Calathea varieties with flowers. The color of the flowers varies from white, pale pink, to purple emerges from the middle of the Calathea leaves.

And true to its name, the flower has star-shaped which makes a contrast with green leaves as the background

13. Calathea micans ‘Silver Stripes’

Calathea micans is described by its silver stripes soaring to the tips of the leaves against the bottle green base color. This silver stripe has a more elongated leaf shape with a wavy style.

And if you are lucky enough, this Silver Stripes can grow white flowers that look stunning when they appear.

14. Calathea fasciata

The most exciting thing about the Calathea fasciata species is the leaf vein pattern’s markings that combine the motif’s alternating deep and light green colors.

Moreover, the glazing leaf of this alluring plant indeed adds texture to the corner of your home. And also, thanks to their tiny shapes, these plants don’t need a lot of space.

15. Calathea ecuadoriana

Just like its name, Calathea ecuadoriana is originated from Ecuador, a country in South America. The distinctive character of this Calathea species is the magenta color on the upperside and stem.

It also features a fishbone pattern on the top of the leaf where they are dangled out and can reach a certain height.

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16. Calathea albertii

Dark green edges and wonderful silver-green touch following its veins are those unusual characteristics of Calathea albertii. And just as most Calathea, the underside is purple.

This plant grows its popularity nowadays in the market despite not being the easiest to take care of compared to their fellow Calathea varieties.

17. Calathea setosa ‘Compact Star’

Similar to Calathea rufibarba, Calathea setosa is also known for having hairs but on the stem. This Compact Star has dark green stripes with purple foliage undersides.

Additionally, its striking foliage patternation makes it look like a painting. Furthermore, it does not favor direct light, the same as other Calathea varieties in general.

18. Calathea undulata

The shape and pattern of Calathea undulata are very similar to Calathea micans. The difference between the two Calathea varieties is bulgy veins and darker green foliage.

In addition, the light green pattern on the mid-rib looks slightly following the direction of the veins markings. Moreover, it is a green plant, in contrast to other Calathea, which generally has a touch of purple, pink, or reddish in its leaves.

19. Calathea leopardina

For newbie Calathea collectors who want to try growing Calathea, Calathea leopardina can be an alternative choice since it is among the easiest Calathea varieties to look after.

Even though it’s easy, you can’t underestimate the beauty of its detail pattern that looks dazzling. Dark spots can be seen following the veins with light green leaves, which makes this splendid plant unique compared to other Calathea species.

20. Calathea wiotii

Of all the flower-producing Calatheas, Calathea wiotii is one of them. This native East Brazil plant grows its tubular flower, which is later arranged in racemes. Unlike most, this Calathea plant is prominently forest green with a slightly brighter green, creating particular markings.

21. Calathea stromanthifolia

One of the uniqueness of Calathea strimanthifolia is that it has a medium green leaf pattern that looks like a peacock’s wing. The hint of light green is also very prominent against the motifs.

Moreover, the leaf undersides are not purple or reddish like other Calathea species.

22. Calathea truncata

If Calathea is often used as an indoor plant, make it included in one of those prayer plants that is more suitable as an outdoor garden addition. Leafy green dominates the foliage with only a glimpse of lighter green.

Furthermore, top leaf motifs are similar to Calathea stromanthifolia, just not as flashy. The shape of the leaves is also slightly more slender and elongated in this species.

23. Calathea Bachemiana

Thanks to its bright silver-green color, it makes Calathea Bachemiana stand out with the blend of markings on the leaf veins. Plus, the perfect deep green margins seem to be carefully painted to turn this Calathea into an exquisite indoor plant to collect.

The leaves that dangle out further beautify the charm of this plant.

Banana Plant-like Calathea Types

Several Calathea cultivars and species apparently have a banana plant structure, so it is suitable to add a tropical atmosphere to your outdoor garden. Below, we give you some examples of Banana Plant-like Calathea types that are amazing to plant.

24. Calathea marantifolia

Having corncobs shape flowers is a characteristic of Calathea marantifolia, thus it is called Sweet Corn Root. The leaves grow quite densely, resembling a banana plant with a shorter shape and more prominent curly veins.

In addition, the entire foliage is forest green, unlike banana plants which tend to have silver coax undersides.

25. Calathea latifolia

Although the name is identical to Calathea marantifolia, they have different flower shapes and colors. Instead of yellow, Calathea latifolia has fascinating dark purple blooming from the hump with white to pinkish tips.

However, the leaves are typical for banana plants with a brown stroke on top that distinguishes them from similar species.

26. Calathea lutea

Different from the previous two species, Calathea lutea does not have flowers. The hallmark of this evergreen plant is its thin and round leaves which are not the same as banana plants in general.

In addition, there is a unique brown and silver touch on the bottom surface of the leaf.

27. Calathea crotalifera

You will immediately feel surrounded by tropical plants in a tropical jungle once you decide to plant Calathea crotalifera in your garden. It has vibrant yellow flowers that grow within the lush foliage.

The flower resembles a unique combination of corn and bananas with a slightly stiff texture.

28. Calathea macrosepala

Highlighting yellow flowers makes this species very similar to Calathea marantifolia. Only the flower heads look yellowish green compared to the previous one.

Slightly different from other Banana Plant-like Calatheas, this one has greener spots in the middle part of the leaves with a lighter green one shade for the rest.

29. Calathea lasiostachya

Another corn-shaped cob of Calathea looks pretty similar to the corn kernels arrangement. However, this species has soft hairs throughout the flowers and leaves of Calathea lasiostachya.

Additionally, tiny white-purple flowers appear on the tip of the hump, creating a unique sight to its appeal.

Rarest Calathea Types for Indoor Garden

Some rare Calathea plants are too beautiful to resist. They have exotic patterns that attract ornamental plant lovers. The color of the leaves is also very varied, so they are not dull to decorate your home.

If you appreciate such qualities from Calathea and dare to grow them, then you must take a look at our list below.

30. Calathea lietzei (White Fusion Calathea)

White Fusion Calathea or Calathea lietzei is the rarest type of Calathea and the only one with authentic variegated patterns. Its vibrant green leaves are covered by unfaltering white splashes, creating an impressive appeal.

Besides being a scarce type of Calathea, White Fusion is also considered as the hardest Calathea to care for in comparison to other Calathea varieties.

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31. Calathea ornata (Pinstripe Calathea)

Pinstripe Calathea or Calathea ornata, is recognized for its unique pink pinstriped leaves with white light brush markings that look surreal. You can also notice glossy dark green foliage, making this Pinstripe Calathea looks even more appealing.

Even though it is a rare type, Calathea ornata is one of the easiest Calatheas to care for.

32. Calathea Beauty Star

There are several different Calathea ornata, and Calathea Beauty Star is one of them. Besides Beauty Star, it is also famous as Zebra Plant – just like Calathea zebrina.

If Calathea ornata highlights pink stripes, the Beauty Star Calathea features stunning green polish on the surface with a hint of white that attracts any nature enthusiast to collect them.

33. Calathea warscewiczii (Jungle Velvet Calathea)

The name of Calathea warscewiczii was taken from a Polish orchid collector – Joseph Warsczewica. This plant is popular among the rarest types of Calathea because of its eye-catching dark green stripes with a lighter green shade brush.

Moreover, the wavy edges and velvety leaves also mark the extraordinary aspects of this unique species.

34. Calathea kennedeae ‘Helen Kennedy’

Calathea Helen Kennedy or Calathea kennedeae was named after a female botanist, Helen Kennedy. Its striking paint brush strokes are the signature pattern of this Calathea cultivar, pretty similar to Calathea makoyana.

Other than that, dark green leaves with a touch of silvery green will spoil the eye of the beholder.

35. Calathea fucata

Silver strokes with some deep green stripes that dominate the surface of this plant become a highlight of Calathea fucata. It also has purple undersides that make a great contrast to its look.

Moreover, this Calathea will grow beautiful white flowers whose stem helps them to stand out. It also favors indirect light, making them perfect as indoor garden plants.

36. Calathea orbifolia

With its large, glossy, and round leaves, Calathea orbifolia saves its place as one of the most unique Calathea you can discover. Not only that, but this prayer plant also does not have particular maroon or purple leaf undersides, just like the other kinds.

Due to its size, Calathea orbifolia is also considered one of the largest Calatheas that will take you to experience tropical vibes.

37. Calathea musaica (Network Plant)

The details of the Calathea musaica leaves are too beautiful to be true. It is so alluring that as if the combination of the medium green color array markings is made of woven meticulously crafted by the craftsman.

Not to mention the elongated heart-shaped leaves that complement the appearance of this species, adding to the uniqueness of Calathea musaica.

38. Calathea sp. (White Jade/Silver Plate)

The combination of pale silver shade on the top, magenta undersides, and olive touch on the edges foliage are some of the hallmarks of Calathea White Jade. The shape of the slightly curled leaves beautifully gives this plant a graceful impression.

White Jade also produces white flowers with a purplish pink finish on the edges that are located amidst the lush plant’s leaves.

39. Calathea elliptica Vittata

Just like its name, the leaves of Calathea elliptical Vittata are elliptical in shape with pointed ends. With its dramatic foliage pattern, it is safe to say that this species deserves to be included in the list of the rarest Calathea plants.

The combination of medium green leaves as the background to its white stripes makes the markings flashy.

40. Calathea majestica (White Star)

Evenly white stripes can be seen throughout the surface of the leaves, offering a distinctive look of Calathea majestica. No wonder it is named after White Star since the markings are as shining as the stars at night.

Additionally, its green shade on the midrib and edges depict the outline of the leaves.

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41. Calathea pavonii

This species is just like nature prints. You can witness dark green spots, black, and vibrant green blend in beautifully on the foliage surface. As exceptional as it looks, the pattern displays strokes effects with charming color gradations that you may not find in similar prayer plants.

Calathea pavonii also grows lovely yellow blossoms that add to its beauty.

42. Calathea louisae ‘Maui Queen’

Creamy shade brushstroke marks from down to the center of the forest green foliage is a unique character of Calathea louisae or better known as Calathea Maui Queen.

And just like most of Calatheas, this plant has purple undersides that create an aesthetic contrast look against the green. Despite being a tropical plant, it does not like direct sunlight yet favors bright indirect light with pretty high humidity.

43. Calathea veitchiana ‘Flamestar’

When you look at this Flamestar Calathea, you might be familiar with its pattern since it pretty much looks like Calathea Medallion with larger leaves. Nonetheless, Calathea veitchiana has vibrant green double strokes out from the middle part of its foliage.

It also shows light layering brush effects that form fantastic leaf outlines around the leaves.

44. Calathea Burle-Marxii

Highlighting fish bones motifs, Calathea Burle-Marxii will bring texture to any room it resides. Its exotic patterns feature silvery-green color with a mix of greener ones that make an impressive appearance.

Moreover, this prayer plant also has glossy leaves and a purple bottom surface like other Calathea in general.

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FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

What is the rarest Calathea?

White Fusion or Calathea lietzei has become the rarest Calathea varieties. It’s the only Calathea with authentic variegated patterns. Its bright green leaves are covered by unwavering white splashes that look captivating. Besides, White Fusion Calathea is also the hardest Calathea to care for.

What is the easiest Calathea to care for?

Calathea lancifolia or best known as Rattlesnake Plant is a great option for beginners as it is the easiest Calathea species to take care of. You can miss one or two watering and it still blooms perfectly. However, if you stop watering and put it under direct sunlight, it can lose its beautiful green marks.

Is Calathea a good indoor plant?

Calathea is popular for interior decor since they are usually simple to clean, have eye-catching patterns, and also offer vibrant green foliage that surely brightens up your room. And yes! They are absolutely gorgeous as indoor plant.