Calathea orbifolia is a species of prayer plant. Native to Bolivia, it is commonly kept as an houseplant in temperate zones for its ornamental leaves. It requires partial shade, humidity, and good drainage to thrive.
Calathea is a genus of plants belonging to the family Marantaceae. There are several dozen species in this genus. Native to the tropical Americas, many of the species are popular as pot plants due to their decorative leaves and, in some species, colorful inflorescences. In its native range, the large and tough leaves are popular for holding small items. Sometimes, they are used unprocessed, e.g. to wrap fish for transport in parts of Brazil. The genus Calathea is expansive and is not short of many cultivars. Each cultivar is unique in the way it looks but they all require the same care.
