Calathea Silverstar

For those who want all the drama of a prayer plant but prefer a sleek, icy aesthetic over bright tropical pinks.

Some shops almost always label this as a Calathea (and we do too, just to keep things simple), it is technically a Ctenanthe. But whatever you want to call it, the Silverstar is an absolute stunner. It swaps out the usual loud colours for a sophisticated, metallic silver wash across its leaves, intersected by delicate dark green veins.

Like the rest of the prayer plant family, it is a constant mover. As evening sets in, it folds its shimmering leaves straight up for the night, revealing those gorgeous, deep burgundy undersides. It brings a completely different, slightly frosty vibe to your indoor jungle.

How to keep it happy:

Light: Bright, indirect light is exactly what it needs to keep that silver wash looking sharp. If you put it in direct, blazing sun, you will scorch and bleach the foliage. If it is too dark, it will lose its metallic shine and revert to a boring green.

Water: Keep the potting soil consistently, slightly moist but never soggy. Let the top inch dry out before you reach for the watering can. The golden rule applies here: this plant is an absolute snob about tap water. Stick strictly to filtered water or fresh Glasgow rainwater.

Humidity: It is a tropical plant at heart, so it demands high humidity. Keep it well away from roasting radiators or cold, draughty windows. Group it with other plants or give it a regular misting to keep the air steamy.

Troubleshooting:

Crispy brown leaf edges? The classic prayer plant grievance. You either used cold tap water, or the air in your flat is bone dry. Switch to room temp water you leave out overnight, or filtered/rainwater if not blessed with Scottish tap water and boost the humidity immediately.

Leaves curling inward? If the leaves are tightly rolling themselves into little tubes, the plant is desperately trying to conserve moisture. It is parched and begging for a thorough soak.

Pet Safety:
100% Pet Safe. Despite its dramatic personality, the Silverstar is completely non-toxic. Your cats and dogs are perfectly safe to roam around it!