Harvesting Calathea Ornata Plant:
Timing and Techniques

Calathea Ornata, also known as the Pinstripe Plant, is a popular houseplant that is loved for its striking foliage. The plant has bright green leaves with thin pink stripes that resemble pin stripes. It is native to South America and grows well in tropical climates. If you’re a plant enthusiast and have been growing Calathea Ornata, you may be wondering when and how to harvest the plant. In this article, we’ll discuss the timing and techniques of harvesting Calathea Ornata.

When to Harvest Calathea Ornata

The best time to harvest Calathea Ornata is during the spring or summer months when the plant is actively growing. During this time, the plant produces new leaves and grows quickly. It’s important to wait until the plant has reached maturity before harvesting any leaves. Mature leaves are those that are fully developed and have reached their full size. If you harvest immature leaves, they may not have developed their full flavor or aroma.

How to Harvest Calathea Ornata

When harvesting Calathea Ornata, it’s important to use clean and sharp scissors or pruning shears. This helps to prevent any damage to the plant and ensures a clean cut. You should also avoid pulling or tearing the leaves off the plant as this can cause damage to the stem and affect future growth.

To harvest a leaf, simply cut it off at the base of the stem where it meets the main stem of the plant. You can harvest as many leaves as you like, but make sure to leave enough leaves on the plant so that it can continue to grow and produce new foliage.

Drying and Storing Calathea Ornata

Once you’ve harvested your Calathea Ornata leaves, you’ll want to dry them out before storing them. To do this, lay the leaves out on a clean paper towel or cloth in a dry area out of direct sunlight. Leave them out for a few days until they are completely dry and crispy.

Once your leaves are dry, store them in an airtight container such as a glass jar or plastic bag. Keep them in a cool, dry place such as a pantry or cupboard. Properly dried and stored Calathea Ornata leaves can last for up to two years.

Using Calathea Ornata

Calathea Ornata leaves can be used in a variety of ways. They have a subtle sweet flavor with a hint of bitterness and are often used for making tea. To make tea, simply steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried Calathea Ornata leaves in hot water for 5-10 minutes.

The leaves can also be used for cooking and baking. They pair well with chocolate desserts and can be added to cakes or brownie mixes for a unique flavor profile.

FAQ

Can I harvest my Calathea Ornata during the winter months?

It’s not recommended to harvest your Calathea Ornata during the winter months as this is typically a time when the plant is dormant and not actively growing.

Can I harvest more than one leaf at a time?

Yes, you can harvest as many leaves as you like, but make sure to leave enough leaves on the plant so that it can continue to grow and produce new foliage.

How long do dried Calathea Ornata leaves last?

Properly dried and stored Calathea Ornata leaves can last for up to two years.

Can I use fresh Calathea Ornata leaves instead of dried ones?

Yes, you can use fresh Calathea Ornata leaves instead of dried ones, but keep in mind that fresh leaves will have a higher water content which may affect their flavor and aroma when used in cooking or making tea.

Can I use Calathea Ornata leaves for medicinal purposes?

While there are no proven medicinal benefits of Calathea Ornata, some people believe that it has anti-inflammatory properties and can help with digestive issues. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before using any herbs for medicinal purposes.