Are you always on the lookout for the latest and greatest in the world of plants? As we move further into 2023, there are several plant varieties that are starting to gain popularity and could become the must-have plants of the year.
Rattlesnake Calathea
Difficulty: ***
Grow Rate: Slow
Care:
The Rattlesnake Calathea, also known as Calathea Lancifolia, is a beautiful and unique plant with striking patterns on its leaves that resemble a rattlesnake's skin. Here's a care guide to help you keep your Rattlesnake Calathea healthy and thriving:
Light: This plant prefers bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch its leaves, so it's best to place it in a spot with filtered light.
Watering: The Rattlesnake Calathea likes to be kept consistently moist, but not soaking wet. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry, and be sure to use room-temperature water. Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water, as this can cause root rot.
Humidity: This plant loves humidity and thrives in a humid environment. You can increase humidity levels by misting the plant regularly or placing a tray of water near the plant. Another option is to place the plant on a pebble tray, which helps to increase humidity levels around the plant.
Temperature: The Rattlesnake Calathea prefers temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C). Avoid exposing it to temperatures below 60°F (15°C), as this can damage the plant.
Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix that is rich in organic matter. You can also add perlite or sand to the soil mix to improve drainage.
Fertilizer: Feed your Rattlesnake Calathea with a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer).
Pruning: Remove any dead or damaged leaves to keep the plant looking healthy and tidy.
2. Black Raven ZZ
Difficulty: *
Grow Rate: 6"/month
Care:
The Black Raven ZZ, also known as Zamioculcas zamiifolia 'Raven', is a striking plant with dark, almost black foliage that is sure to make a statement in any room. Here's a care guide to help you keep your Black Raven ZZ healthy and thriving:
Light: This plant can tolerate a range of light conditions, from low to bright indirect light. However, it prefers bright indirect light, and its leaves may lose their dark color in low light conditions.
Watering: The Black Raven ZZ is a drought-tolerant plant and prefers to be kept on the dry side. Water the plant thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry, but be sure to let the soil dry out between waterings to avoid overwatering. Water less frequently during the winter months.
Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix that is specifically designed for succulent plants. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and sand works well.
Humidity: This plant is tolerant of low humidity levels and does not require misting or extra humidity.
Temperature: The Black Raven ZZ prefers temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C) and can tolerate temperatures as low as 45°F (7°C). Avoid exposing it to temperatures below 45°F (7°C), as this can damage the plant.
Fertilizer: Feed your Black Raven ZZ with a balanced liquid fertilizer every month during the growing season (spring and summer).
Pruning: Remove any yellow or brown leaves to keep the plant looking healthy and tidy.
By following these care tips, you can help your Black Raven ZZ thrive and grow into a beautiful, dark foliage plant. Remember to avoid overwatering and to give the plant bright indirect light for the best results.
3. Airplant
Difficulty: **
Grow Rate: Slow
Care:
Air plants, also known as Tillandsias, are unique plants that don't require soil to grow. Here's a care guide to help you keep your air plant healthy and thriving:
Light: Air plants prefer bright, indirect light. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight, as this can scorch their leaves. They can also tolerate low light conditions for short periods of time.
Watering: Unlike other plants, air plants absorb water through their leaves, not their roots. To water your air plant, mist it with a spray bottle or soak it in water for 20-30 minutes once a week. After soaking, shake off excess water and let it dry completely before putting it back in its container.
Humidity: Air plants thrive in humid environments. You can increase humidity levels by misting the plant regularly or placing it near a humidifier or in a bathroom.
Temperature: Air plants prefer temperatures between 50-90°F (10-32°C). Avoid exposing them to temperatures below 40°F (4°C), as this can damage the plant.
Fertilizer: Air plants don't require fertilizer, but you can feed them with a weak solution of air plant fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).
Pruning: Remove any dead or yellow leaves to keep the plant looking healthy and tidy.
Display: Air plants can be displayed in a variety of ways, such as in a glass terrarium, mounted on a piece of wood, or in a hanging planter. Be sure to choose a container that allows for good air circulation and doesn't hold water.