Calathea — 10 species

Calatheas are dramatic tropical foliage plants celebrated for richly patterned leaves — including the bold stripes of Zebra Plant Calathea and the fine ivory lines of Pinstripe Calathea — that fold upward at dusk in a characteristic prayer-plant movement. Indoors, they need bright indirect light (direct sun bleaches the patterns) and consistently moist but never waterlogged soil; high humidity is essential to prevent leaf-tip browning. All Calathea species are listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs by the ASPCA, making them an excellent choice for pet-friendly households.