Family: Marantaceae
Common Name: Calathea Medallion, Prayer Plant
Botanical Name: (Geoppertia) Calathea veitchiana roseopicta ‘Medallion’
There are two sides to every story -- or in this case, every leaf! The overhead view of the leaves of this Calathea Medallion will instantly strike you as boldly confident. The intricate patterns appear to be engraved and seem as though nature had used a paint-by-numbers kit. The undersides of the leaves are bathed in deep violet, and when the light filters through, the two sides simultaneously reveal added texture and color. Give these indoor plants a little extra humidity and a watchful eye for the best results. Learn how to care for your Calathea Medallion!
Light
These indoor plants can handle low light, but if you want them to grow faster and produce larger leaves, provide medium to bright indirect light for at least 5 hours daily. In a north- or east-facing window, you can place them close to access more sun, or you can keep them out of reach of direct light in a south- or west-facing window. Increased light can help maintain the vivid colors and patterns on the foliage. Direct sunlight can be damaging and may cause colors to fade.Water
Prayer Plants have high water requirements. Thoroughly water these indoor plants when the top inch of the soil is dry. Geoppertia species of houseplants do best in well-draining soil and containers with drainage. While Calathea Medallions love to get their drink on, they still like to dry out a bit between watering. The type of water used can make a difference when it comes to watering calathea. Tap water may contain minerals or compounds that can be damaging to the leaves. Brown edges along the leaves can be an indication that the water is high in salt or contains chlorine, chloramine, bromide, or fluoride. It may be best to water the plant using filtered or distilled water, or water collected from a dehumidifier if you suspect tap water is not suitable for your Calathea Medallion.Soil
Potting soil that is rich in nutrients and organic matter, but still has the ability to drain well is the perfect growing medium for all calatheas. Most coco coir or peat-based potting soil mixes will be adequate but make sure that they do not contain water-retentive crystals as they can cause the soil to stay moist causing root rot continually. If you are feeling adventurous, try creating your own potting soil!Temperature
As tropical plants, Calathea Medallion like warmer temperatures. Average room temperature above 65°F is fine, but these indoor plants won't mind if it gets warmer and the temperature creeps closer to 85°F. The hotter the temperature, the more water they will need! Avoid placing them near exterior doors, drafty windows, and vents, particularly during the colder months. Also avoid placement near heating vents as this will dry out their foliage!
Humidity
High humidity is a must-have for prayer plants. The leaves may begin to curl or the edges will turn brown and dry out if they do not receive enough humidity (over 50%). Calathea Medallion indoor plants do well in a kitchen, bathroom, or any area with extra moisture in the air. Using a humidifier or a pebble tray with water can help give Calathea Medallion the extra dampness they crave. Learn how to increase the humidity in the air around your indoor plants!
Fertilizer
Fertilizing your Calathea Medallion can help promote new growth and even blooms depending on the variety. A complete liquid fertilizer diluted to half-strength the recommended strength is a good option. Fertilize your Prayer Plants every 2-3 weeks during the growing season. Another option is to top dress your plants in the spring with compost (like worm castings). This will slowly release nutrients to the roots throughout the growing season. These indoor plants should not be fertilized during the colder months when the plant is dormant. Learn how and when to fertilize your houseplants!
Growth Rate
Calathea Medallions are fast-growers once they are established; they normally reach heights between 2-3’ when grown in high humidity and ample indirect light!
Pet Friend or Foe
Calathea Medallion is non-toxic to pets! Friend.
Pro Tips
- Calathea Medallions are moisture-loving plants, but over-watering is still a concern and can introduce a whole host of problems. Making sure the plants receive lots of bright indirect light can help regulate the dampness while helping the plant thrive.
- Don't be too worried if you notice the leaves beginning to curl or the stems of your Calathea Medallion drooping. These are signs of dehydration. It's important to pay attention to these indicators, but these hardy houseplants can bounce back within a day or so after receiving water.
- Calathea Medallion can only be propagated through division. These plants naturally propagate themselves by expanding their root system and sending new shoots up through the soil. When a mature plant is re-potted, gently separate the roots to divide the main plant into several smaller plants. Each new plant can be potted in its own container. Given time and proper care, those new plants will fill in.
- Rotate your calathea to promote a full, balanced indoor plant.
- Always check the leaves (top and bottom) during your care sessions. Check for unwanted guests (pests and diseases).