Calathea setosa ‘Stella d'Argento’

Calathea setosa ‘Silver Star’ is an elegant ornamental variety from the Marantaceae family, mainly grown for its spectacular foliage, with a distinct pattern and silvery reflections. It originates from the tropical regions of South America, where it naturally grows in the shaded areas of forests, under high humidity conditions.

🔹 Botanical characteristics:

• Habit: A perennial plant with compact growth, reaching heights of about 40–60 cm, ideal for pot cultivation as a decorative indoor plant.

• Leaves: Lance-shaped, long and slender, with a pointed tip and fine edges. The leaf surface is soft and slightly velvety. The ‘Silver Star’ cultivar stands out for its unique coloring: a pale silver background crossed by dark green stripes running symmetrically along the secondary veins. The underside of the leaf is deep violet-purple, typical of many Calatheas.

• Stems: Thin and upright, light-colored, supporting the leaves in a vertical position, giving the plant a neat and elegant appearance.

• Flowers: Indoors, flowering is rare and not significant for decoration; the flowers are small, white or cream, hidden among the leaves.

🔹 Recommended growing conditions:

• Light: Prefers indirect or partial shade. Direct sunlight can fade the leaves and cause burns. In filtered light, the leaf pattern remains vivid and contrasting.

• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, but not soaked. It is recommended to water with room temperature water, ideally free of lime (filtered or rainwater), as Calathea is sensitive to salts and hard minerals.

• Soil: A well-aerated and rich organic substrate with good drainage. A mix of peat and perlite is ideal.

• Humidity: Requires high atmospheric moisture (over 60%). Thrives excellently in bright bathrooms, large terrariums, or near a humidifier.

• Recommended temperatures: Prefers a warm and stable environment. Should be protected from cold drafts and sudden temperature changes.

Some leaves may show defects/scars, but these do not affect the plant’s vitality. Under optimal care, new leaves will develop normally. 
Height including pot 35 cm