Calathea - Medallion
$34.00 USD
The Living Art - A Dramatic Beauty Requiring Extra TLC.
The **Calathea Medallion** (*Goeppertia/Calathea roseopicta 'Medallion'*) is a highly sought-after plant in the Prayer Plant family (Marantaceae). It is famous for its large, rounded leaves featuring intricate patterns of dark green, bright green, and silvery markings on top, with a deep, dramatic magenta underside. Like all Calatheas, its leaves exhibit **nyctinasty**, meaning they fold up at night and unfurl in the morning, appearing to "pray."
Care & Info
- Light: Thrives in **medium to bright indirect light**. Avoid direct sun, which will scorch and fade the delicate leaf patterns. While it tolerates lower light, its vibrant colors will be less pronounced.
- Water: Keep the soil **consistently moist but not soggy**. Allow the top inch of soil to just begin to dry out before watering again. This plant is very sensitive to the minerals and chlorine in tap water; using **filtered, distilled, or rainwater** is highly recommended to prevent brown leaf tips and edges.
- Humidity: This is a **high-humidity lover** and is the most common challenge for Calathea owners. Low humidity causes brown, crispy edges on the leaves. Use a humidifier, place it near a kitchen or bathroom (if light permits), or use a pebble tray to maintain humidity levels above 50-60%.
- Temperature: Prefers warm conditions between **65°F and 80°F** (18°C and 27°C). It is sensitive to cold, so keep it away from cold drafts, A/C units, and heating vents.
- Soil: Use a **well-draining, peat-based potting mix** that retains some moisture. Mixing in perlite or coco coir improves drainage and aeration.
Plant Facts & Pet Safety
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Movement | Leaves fold up at night and down during the day (**Nyctinasty**). |
| Difficulty | Moderate (due to high humidity and water sensitivity). |
| Pet Toxicity | ✅ **Non-Toxic** to cats and dogs (ASPCA certified). |
Common Issues
- Crispy Brown Edges/Tips: The plant's primary complaint! Almost always due to **low humidity** or **minerals/chemicals in tap water**. Use distilled water and boost humidity.
- Curling Leaves: Can indicate **underwatering** (soil is too dry) or a reaction to **low humidity**.
- Yellowing Leaves: Typically a sign of **overwatering** or poor drainage. Check the soil before watering to ensure it's not waterlogged.