Velvet Calathea – Calathea rufibarba - Lush Indoor Plant

Add vibrant, velvet-soft texture to your garden with the Velvet Calathea. Known for its rippled, deep green leaves with rich purple undersides, this tropical stunner thrives outdoors in warm, humid climates. Whether growing directly in shaded garden beds, decorative patio pots, or undercover spaces, it delivers lush, jungle-like foliage all year round.

🌤 Light & Placement

Prefers dappled shade or filtered light. Outdoors, it thrives in protected areas away from harsh sun and strong winds. Ideal for courtyards, balconies, shaded patios, or under tree canopies where conditions mimic its rainforest origins.

💧 Water & Humidity

Enjoys consistently moist soil — not soggy. Allow the top layer to dry slightly between waterings. In naturally humid areas like northern NSW, no misting is needed. In drier seasons or zones, watering may need to be slightly increased. Ideal temperature range: 18–28°C.

🇦🇺 Australian Climate Zones

• Zones 1–4 (including Northern NSW): Grows beautifully outdoors with partial shade and consistent moisture

• Zones 5–8: May also perform well outdoors seasonally with frost protection

• Zones 9–11: More suited to indoor growth or highly protected outdoor spots in winter

• Not frost tolerant – avoid exposure to freezing temps or sudden cold snaps

🪴 Potting & Sizes

Available as bare-rooted or in 50mm nursery pots. Can be planted directly into garden beds or up-potted into larger decorative containers. Use a high-quality potting mix suitable for tropical or indoor plants with good drainage.

✨ Why Gardeners Love It

Velvet Calathea is more than an indoor accent plant — in the right outdoor environment, it grows vigorously and spreads into full, textured clusters. Its low-growing bushy shape, striking two-tone leaves, and pet-safe nature make it a favourite for lush landscaping in warm zones.

❓ FAQs

Can I grow this outdoors year-round?
Yes! In Zones 1–4 (like Northern NSW), it's an excellent outdoor plant when kept in dappled shade and protected from frost.

Is it safe for pets?
Yes, it's non-toxic and safe for cats and dogs.

Will it tolerate full sun?
No. Too much sun can scorch the leaves. Filtered light or full shade with ambient brightness is best.

Does it need much care?
It’s low-maintenance outdoors in humid zones. Just water when dry at the top and keep it shaded.

Will it survive winter?
In frost-free areas, yes. In cooler zones, consider moving it to a protected spot during colder months.