Even if the colloquial name “Arrowwurz” for the Calathea suggests poisonous arrow poison, the ornamental plant, known in German as Korbmarante, is not poisonous. You can therefore care for them in the house without worry.
Is Calathea poisonous to people or pets?
The calathea, also known as basket marante, is a non-toxic ornamental plant that can be safely cultivated in a household with people and pets such as cats and dogs. Originally it was used as a medicinal plant against arrow poison.
Calathea is not poisonous
The pretty wicker marant requires a lot of care, but it has one big advantage. It is not poisonous and can therefore be grown in any household without worry.
It owes its name “arrowroot” to the fact that antidotes for arrow poison, which is feared in South America, are obtained from it. In the past, the basket marante was used as a medicinal plant. But it no longer plays a role in today's natural medicine. On the contrary, it is not recommended to use it, even if the Calathea does not contain any toxic components.
The Calathea was given the name Korbmarante because the beautifully patterned leaves were used by the Brazilian natives to weave baskets.
The Calathea is not easy to care for
The Calathea is at home in the Brazilian rainforest. It is always humid there. However, the plant does not get direct sunlight.
These living conditions of the basket marant must be taken into account when caring for them in the house. The plant must never dry out completely, as the leaves can then immediately droop and even break. Direct sunlight causes the leaves to curl or discolor.
A special feature of the Calathea is that the leaves go into a sleeping position at night and turn upwards. This is a natural process.
Tip
What applies to people also applies to pets such as cats and dogs in this case. Animal lovers can purchase a calathea without hesitation. She poses no danger to the animal inhabitants of the house.