Cigar Calathea (Calathea lutea)

Cigar Calathea

Calathea lutea

Its upright foliage unfurls like folded parchment, warm yellow blooms peek from tight bracts. Tropical herbaceous perennial; common name: pampano.

Partial sun
2/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Bright indirect light; avoid direct midday sunlight to prevent leaf scorching
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Watering Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; use room-temperature water to avoid root shock
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Temperature Thrives in warm, humid conditions; avoid temperatures below 15°C to prevent leaf browning
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Large oblong-lanceolate leaves with glossy green upper surface and pale green underside; upright, clumping growth habit
  • Flower: Yellow tubular blooms emerge from tight, cigar-shaped bracts (namesake trait)
  • Stem: Thick fleshy rhizomatous stems that form dense, compact clumps
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Care Guide

Watering

Maintain even soil moisture; mist foliage 2–3 times weekly to boost humidity

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks. Discontinue fertilization in winter when growth slows

Banana peel tea:Soak 1 peeled banana in 1 liter of water for 24 hours; strain and use to water plants to support foliage health and flowering
Pruning
  • Remove yellow or brown leaves at the base to maintain plant appearance and reduce disease risk
  • Trim spent flower bracts to redirect energy to new foliage growth
  • Divide overcrowded clumps in spring during repotting to propagate and refresh the plant
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA confirmed non-toxic to cats

Humans: No known toxic effects on humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental foliage plant for indoor and shaded outdoor tropical landscapes