Calathea Princess Dalya Variegated is a rare and striking cultivar from the Marantaceae family, prized for its bold variegation and elegant tropical foliage. Calatheas are native to the humid rainforests of South America, where they grow on the forest floor beneath the canopy.
The leaves of Princess Dalya are large, oval, and highly ornamental, showcasing a mix of deep green, creamy white, and blush-pink variegation across the surface. Each leaf is uniquely patterned some are heavily marbled with pale cream, while others display soft pastel streaks of pink or hints of lime green. The undersides are typically flushed with a rich purple or burgundy, creating a dramatic contrast.
Like other prayer plants, the leaves of Calathea Princess Dalya are nyctinastic they move with the light, folding upwards at night as though in prayer, then unfurling again in the morning. Growing to around 5070 cm tall, this cultivar is a showy yet manageable plant, ideal for brightening shaded interiors with its pastel-hued elegance.
Calathea Princess Dalya Variegated Care Guide
Light
Thrives in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the variegated leaves. Too little light may reduce pink tones and variegation.
Watering
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water when the top 23 cm of soil feels dry, using filtered or rainwater if possible, as Calatheas are sensitive to hard tap water.
Temperature and Humidity
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Temperature: Prefers 1826C. Avoid cold draughts and temperatures below 15C.
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Humidity: Requires high humidity (60%+). Mist regularly, use a pebble tray, or keep near a humidifier. Without adequate humidity, leaf edges may crisp or curl.
Soil and Potting
Use a light, free-draining peat-free compost enriched with perlite and coco coir. Repot every 12 years in spring to refresh the mix and encourage growth.
Feeding
Feed every 24 weeks in spring and summer with a diluted, balanced liquid fertiliser. Stop feeding in winter when growth slows.
Pruning and Maintenance
Remove any yellowing or damaged leaves at the base. Wipe the leaves gently with a damp cloth to keep them dust-free and glossy.
Growth and Maturity
A moderate grower, reaching 5070 cm tall indoors with a spreading clump of colourful leaves. Forms a dense, bushy plant over time under the right conditions.
Common Issues
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Brown leaf edges: Usually from low humidity or inconsistent watering.
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Curling leaves: A sign of underwatering or low humidity.
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Pale leaves/loss of variegation: Caused by insufficient light.
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Pests: May occasionally attract spider mites, aphids, or thrips.
Background and Benefits
Calatheas are valued worldwide for their extraordinary leaf patterns and colours, often referred to as living art. Princess Dalya Variegated is one of the most eye-catching varieties, offering soft cream and pink tones rarely seen in other tropical foliage plants. It makes a statement as a centrepiece houseplant while contributing to better air quality indoors.
Quick Care Summary
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Light: Bright, indirect; avoid direct sun
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Water: Keep soil consistently moist; use filtered or rainwater
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Temperature: 1826C; avoid below 15C
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Humidity: High (60%+ recommended)
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Soil: Light, free-draining, peat-free mix with perlite
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Feed: Every 24 weeks in spring/summer
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Growth: Bushy, 5070 cm; variegated green, cream, and pink leaves with purple undersides
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