Propagating Calathea

Calatheas are popular houseplants, just like Marantas and Syngoniums. They are known for their striking leaf patterns, but also for something else: every evening, the leaves fold up like they’re going to sleep. In the morning, they open again. A true dancer.

Wash your knife or scissors with hot water and soap. Then disinfect with alcohol to kill any bacteria or fungi.

Take the Calathea out of its pot and gently dig out a shoot. Choose a shoot that is at least 20 centimetres tall. Remove excess soil so you can clearly see if it already has its own roots.

Cut the shoot off as close to the base as possible. Check whether the shoot has its own roots. If not, it's better to wait a bit longer.

Place the shoot in fresh potting soil in a suitable pot. Water lightly and place it in bright but indirect light. You can also try rooting Calathea in water, but this method does not always work for every variety.

Are you repotting the mother plant too? Choose a pot that is about 20 percent larger than the current one.

• When: spring or early summer

• Light: bright, indirect light

• Water: keep lightly moist

• Patience: it can take weeks before you see new growth

• Water propagation: works for some varieties, but not always reliable

Yes. Without roots, the shoot is unlikely to survive. Wait until it’s developed before cutting.

These tips are based on our own experience with propagating Calathea plants. All methods are tested in our plant nursery and work well for beginners too.

Want to explore more propagation tips? Check out our other step-by-step plant guides.