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Caeroba
Calathea insignis · Marantaceae
How it looks
This calathea is a foliage plant with large oval leaves marked by deep-green and light-green feather-like patterns. The leaf undersides are purple, and the leaves fold upward at night. Height 12–24 in (30–60 cm), grown in the shade.
Caeroba is listed as non-toxic to cats by the ASPCA. An occasional nibble is unlikely to cause any real trouble.
Guide for parents
One note on species first. This page rests on the ASPCA verdict for the species it lists as rattlesnake plant (Calathea insignis), an entry the ASPCA files under several common names including "Maranta" and "Prayer Plant". The plant sold in Korea as maranta, Maranta leuconeura, is a different species and has its own entry in this app.
Even with a safe plant, make a habit of picking up fallen leaves the same day.
If your cat likes to dig in or eat potting soil, fertilizer ingredients can upset their stomach — covering the soil with pebbles works well.
If it comes home as a cut stem, florists often treat it with preservatives, so place the vase where your cat can't drink the water.
Details
- Scientific name
- Calathea insignis
- Common name
- Caeroba
- Family
- Marantaceae
- Source
- ASPCA cats plant list
Related plants
Same plant family· Marantaceae
Other safe flowers
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