How to prune zebra plant (calathea zebrina)

Year-round as damage appears. Remove individual yellow or dead leaves by cutting the petiole cleanly at the base. Trim brown tips with sharp, sterilised scissors at an angle that matches the leaf's natural taper.

As needed; light tidying every few weeks during active growth. Zebra Plant Calathea requires only cosmetic pruning — removing yellowed leaves and trimmed brown tips. This species is sensitive to stress; avoid cutting back healthy foliage. Focus on improving humidity and watering quality to prevent damage rather than pruning it away after the fact.

Remove individual yellow or dead leaves by cutting the petiole cleanly at the base. Trim brown tips with sharp, sterilised scissors at an angle that matches the leaf's natural taper.