Also known as Braided Calathea · Catalthea · Greystar
Ctenanthe setosa, the Ctenanthe setosa, is a striking tropical plant known for its decorative foliage with silver stripes and purple undersides.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, indirect light
50% intensity
Avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves. Tolerates low light but may become leggy.
Keep soil consistently moist
75% intensity
Water when top 2-3 cm of soil is dry. Reduce in winter.
Well-draining potting mix, rich in organic matter.
50% intensity
Average room temperature
50% intensity
Ideal range is 18-24°C. Avoid cold drafts and temperatures below 15°C.
Light feeding during growing season
25% intensity
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4-6 weeks in 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
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during the growing season. Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry.
Reduce watering in winter, allowing the soil to dry out slightly more between waterings to prevent root rot. Ensure good drainage.
Pruning is primarily for shaping and removing dead or damaged foliage. Trim away yellowing or brown leaves at the base of the plant. You can also pinch back the tips of stems to encourage bushier growth if desired.
Minimal pruning is generally needed.
Ctenanthe setosa is best propagated by division. Gently divide the root ball during repotting, ensuring each section has healthy roots and at least a few shoots. Pot the divisions separately in well-draining potting mix.
Keep the soil moist and the humidity high to encourage new growth.
Repot your Ctenanthe setosa every 1-2 years, or when it becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one. Use a well-draining potting mix, ideally a blend for houseplants or aroid mixes.
Repotting is best done in spring.
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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
