It took years, but we finally understand eachother. This is Carlotta, my Beauty Star Calathea.

This is by far the most temperamental plant I have ever owned in my life, named after the Opera Populaire's prima donna. But, to her credit, I can't think of anything further than her native environment than the suburbs of Ohio. Acclimation was a bitch for both of us. She got all the way down to four crispy leaves at one point, and now she is my pride and joy. I am never going to let someone tell me I am impatient ever again.

If you would like to raise one, my advice is:
– distilled water only, two or three times a week
– liquid fertilizer about twice as often as you'd think
– bathrooms are ideal for soft light and ambient humidity
– a 3-part mix of equal parts potting soil, orchid bark, and perlite