Also known as Braided Calathea · Catalthea · Greystar
Ctenanthe setosa is a striking evergreen perennial native to Brazil, known for its elegant, lance-shaped leaves with intricate patterns.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, indirect
50% intensity
Prefers dappled light or shade. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch leaves.
Consistent moisture
75% intensity
Keep soil evenly moist, allow top inch to dry between waterings. Reduce in winter.
Well-draining potting mix
50% intensity
Average to warm
75% intensity
Ideal range is 18-24°C. Protect from cold drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations.
Moderate feeding
50% intensity
Fertilize with diluted balanced liquid fertilizer during growing season (spring/summer).
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water consistently, keeping the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out slightly between waterings, especially during warmer months.
Reduce watering frequency in winter to prevent root rot. Use filtered or distilled water if your tap water is heavily chlorinated or has high mineral content.
Prune to maintain desired shape and size, and to remove any dead, damaged, or yellowing leaves. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears. Pinch back leggy stems to encourage bushier growth.
Light pruning can be done at any time of year, but heavier pruning is best reserved for spring.
Propagate Ctenanthe setosa by division or stem cuttings. Division is best done during repotting in spring. Carefully separate the root ball into smaller sections, ensuring each section has roots and shoots.
Stem cuttings can be taken in spring or summer, placed in water or moist potting mix until roots develop.
Repot your Ctenanthe setosa every 1-2 years, or when it becomes root-bound, preferably in spring. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one.
Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a blend of peat moss, perlite, and compost. Ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Ctenanthe Setosa (Ctenanthe setosa)
Where Ctenanthe Setosa (Ctenanthe setosa) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Zingiberales |
| Family | Marantaceae |
| Genus | Ctenanthe |
| Species | Ctenanthe setosa |
Similar in genus Ctenanthe
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
