Calathea Bicajoux Gekko

Gecko Calathea

Calathea Bicajoux is an incredibly rare indoor plant. Its dual ornamental value, with particularly eye-catching and large oval leaves which are brightly patterned in light green shades, as well as its spectacular pale pink flowers, is only possible because of modern propagation methods.

Gecko Calathea, aka Gekko Calathea, is one of the few Calatheas cultivated for their flowers as well as their intricate leaves. The flowers are held on long stems above the foliage, to be seen and enjoyed better, whilst the leaves keep their bright colours all year round.

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Origin: horticultural origin (Belgium)
Genus: Calathea
Species / Cultivar: spp. (patented hybrid)
Common Name: Gecko Calathea
Synonym: Calathea ‘Bica146’

Plant Biography

A marvel of modern selection and propagation methods, the Calathea Bicajoux® Gekko has been ‘invented’ by Rene Denis in Belgium in late 2009. The patent name, lists it under “BICA146”, but Calathea enthusiasts know it as ‘Gekko’ or ‘Gecko’.

The unique feature of this plant lies in its double ornamental value: these ‘jewels’ are a combination of beautiful decorative leaves together with gorgeous flowers. The word ‘bi’ in the name of Bicajoux®, comes from the Latin word ‘bis’, meaning ‘2’ or ‘double’, suggesting this dual appeal. The ‘ca’ in the name Bicajoux® indicates that these plants are part of the Calathea-family, a group of shade lowing plants.

The plant is rarely offered for sale, as the development of this new breed is still an ongoing process.

Calathea 'Bicajoux Gecko'
Light: Bright Indirect
This plant likes sun, but keep out of direct sunlight. Best placed in an area near a window.
Soil: Indoor Potting Mix
Enjoys moist well drained soil with composted organics and some drainage material.
Temperature: 19 - 26°C
Temperature range at which this plant is healthiest and grows best.
Final Size: Small
Will stay small enough for a desk or shelf.
Water Requirement: Regular Watering
Water when soil surface is dry to the touch. Water must draining easily away.
Humidity: High
Provide moist air via daily misting or trays of wet grit. Keep away from drafts and heaters.
Maintenance: Moderate
This plant has specific requirements. Incorrect care can quickly lead to signs of distress.
Eventual Height: 0.39-0.45m
The plant's ultimate height in typical growing conditions.
Eventual Spread: 0.45m
The plant's ultimate spread in typical growing conditions.

Expert Tip

Faded leaves and flowers can be cut at the bottom of the stalk, allowing the plant to start flowering again. Periodically, the plant will die back; let the soil dry completely for about one month, place in a cool, dark place; restart watering after one month and keep the soil moist at all times in a warm place. The plant will spring back to live in no time.
Care & Size Guidance

Care & Size Guidance

Calathea Bicajoux® thrives in a high humidity environment, therefore it’s a perfect plant for a bathroom or a kitchen. Due to it’s large leaves, it evaporates a lot of water, therefore the soil should be checked regularly to be kept moist at all times.

However, no water should be left standing in the saucer. It is best to check the humidity of the pot twice a week. Substantial variations in watering must be avoided. Rain water is preferred.

Like most Calatheas, it does not require much fertiliser. Use an organic fertiliser, diluted to half the strength recommended on the package, applied once a month.

Expert Tip

Stress caused by drought will shorten the durability of the flowers. Placing the plant outdoors during the summer when it rains, will make the leaves glitter and offer a pleasant and refreshing look.

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