Even if the colloquial name "arrowroot" for the calathea makes you think of poisonous arrow poison, the ornamental plant, called in German Korbmarante, is not poisonous. You can therefore care for them indoors without worrying.
The Korbmarante was formerly used as a medicinal plant
Calathea is not poisonous
The pretty basket marante does need some maintenance, but it has one major advantage. It is not poisonous and can therefore be grown safely in any household.
It owes its name "arrowroot" to the fact that it is used to obtain antidotes for the arrow poison feared in South America. In the past, the Korbmarante was used as a medicinal plant. In today's natural medicine, however, it no longer plays a role. On the contrary, it is rather not recommended to use it, even if the calathea does not contain any toxic components.
The calathea was given the name basket marante because the pretty 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's always wet there. However, the plant does not get direct sunlight.
When caring for them in the house, these living conditions must be taken into account. The plant must never dry out completely, as then the leaves can droop and even break. Direct sunlight will cause the leaves to curl or discolour.
A special feature of the calathea is that the leaves go into a sleeping position and stand up at night. This is a natural process.
tips
In this case, what applies to humans also applies to pets such as cats and dogs. Animal lovers can purchase a calathea without hesitation. In front of her there is no danger for the animal residents of the house.