Air-Purifying Plant of the Month for November 2025

The Calathea riginates from the tropical rainforests of South and Central America, particularly countries such as Brazil, Colombia, and Ecuador. These regions are known for their rich biodiversity and ideal conditions for plant growth. In its natural habitat, the Calathea grows on the forest floor, where sunlight is filtered through dense tree canopies. This explains why this air-purifying plant thrives in low light and high humidity, conditions that you can easily recreate at home.

Habitat adaptations

The Calathea has developed some special characteristics to survive in the specific conditions of the rainforest:

• Nyctinasty: this is the plant’s ability to close its leaves in the dark and reopen them in daylight. These movements help the plant retain moisture and minimize exposure to nighttime cold, which is particularly useful during the humid but sometimes cool nights of the rainforest.
• Leaf texture and shape: Calathea leaves are often large, thin, and light in texture, allowing them to efficiently capture light in the shaded environment of the rainforest. The complex colors and patterns on the leaves can also provide camouflage.

Types of Calathea

There are more than 200 species of Calathea, each with its unique leaf patterns and colors. Some popular Calathea species you may be familiar with that are grown by our proud member Shadowplant, are:

• Calathea Angela: The Calathea Angela has broad, oval leaves with a fresh green color and dark, feather-like markings. The underside is purplish-red, typical of many Calatheas.
• Calathea Crimson: The Crimson stands out immediately with its beautiful pink leaves. It is ideal if you are looking for a unique plant!
• Calathea Dotti: Known for its very dark purple (almost black) leaves with bright pink markings. A Calathea species you don't often come across.
• Calathea Lancifolia: This species has elongated, twisted leaves with dark spots that resemble the skin of a rattlesnake.
• Calathea Makoyana: The Makoyana has large, round leaves with a distinctive pattern of stripes.
• Calathea Medaillon: a classic air-purifying plant with dark green and light green leaves featuring a purple underside. The leaves also have striking white markings on the upper surface.
• Calathea Mirosha: The Mirosha has fresh green leaves, both on the underside and the upper surface. Strong and full-bodied in texture.
• Calathea Misty: This unique variety is only grown by our member Teun Valstar Shadowplant. This silver glow gives just a little extra to the Calathea!
• Calathea Oppenheimiana: : known for its tall stems with oval, striking leaves.
• Calathea Orbifolia: Perhaps the best known Calathea species, the Orbifolia is known for its large, green, round leaves with light green stripes.
• Calathea Pinstripe: Beautiful, green leaves with light stripes that appear to have been painted with a brush.
• Calathea Roseopicta: This species has leaves with beautiful pink accents and a purple underside, giving a striking color to your interior.
• Calathea Rufibarba: The Calathea rufibarba can be recognized by its long narrow dark green leaves with purple undersides. There are several varieties of this species.
• Calathea sandriana Ornata: Dark green leaves with fine, light pink stripes running parallel to the veins.
• Calathea Warscewiczii: Unique, velvety leaves with a light/dark green pattern and purple underside.

Grower of the Calathea

The November Air-Purifying Plant of the Month, the Calathea, is grown by our proud member Teun Valstar Shadowplant. This family-run business grows Calatheas for Air So Pure in 16 different varieties and 5 pot sizes. Here, they grow and package your air-purifying plant with great care and love.

Whether you place a small Calathea on your desk or a striking, large Calathea in your living room, you’re sure to find the perfect Calathea for any space at Air So Pure! With dark purple leaves, bright green leaves, or soft, velvety leaves, this air-purifying plant offers a wide variety of options.

Care tips for the Calathea

Calatheas are known to be somewhat demanding or difficult plants, but with the right care, they can be by your side for years! Here are some important tips to keep your Calathea healthy and happy:

• Light: Calatheas like indirect light/semi-shade best. Too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves to fade or burn. Place your plant in a low-light spot or a few feet away from a window.
• Water: Keep the soil moist, but not soggy. Calatheas like constant humidity, so it is important to water regularly, but make sure the roots are not in the water to prevent root rot.
• Humidity: These plants thrive in high humidity, just like in their natural habitat. Regularly misting the leaves can help maintain humidity levels, especially in the winter when the air indoors is drier.
• Temperature: Keep the temperature stable, approximately between 18°C and 24°C. Calatheas do not like cold temperatures or drafts.
• Nutrition: During the growing period (spring and summer), give some plant nutrition once a month. This will make the Calathea a little healthier.

Calatheas aren’t just beautiful to look at; they’re also functional. Like all other houseplants from Air So Pure, the Calathea helps purify the air in your home. They absorb pollutants such as formaldehyde and benzene, which are often found in household products. They also increase humidity by releasing water through their leaves, which can be especially beneficial in dry indoor environments. An effective, air-purifying plant.

Research shows that air-purifying plants such as the Calathea can improve indoor air quality, which can contribute to a healthier living environment. So a room full of Calatheas can not only reduce stress due to their calming presence but also promote your health.

The Calathea isn’t just any houseplant; it’s a striking plant that adds that special touch to your interior, whether you choose the subtle charm of the Calathea Orbifolia or the colorful Calathea Roseopicta. Plus, the Calathea can be the perfect conversation starter. When friends or family come to visit, you can tell them all about the striking patterns and vibrant colors of your Calathea. Who knows, maybe you’ll even inspire them to bring a Calathea into their home too!