Calathea Medallion is a beautiful, decorative plant that belongs to the Marantaceae family. This tropical houseplant is native to Brazil, and it has stunning foliage with vibrant patterns and colors that make it a popular choice among plant lovers. In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive guide on the plant profile and care of Calathea Medallion.
Plant Profile
Calathea Medallion is a tropical plant that thrives in warm and humid conditions. It has large, oval-shaped leaves with dark green stripes and silver-colored spots that look like medallions, which is how it gets its name. The leaves of this plant grow up to 30 cm in length and 15 cm in width, and they have a velvety texture that adds to their beauty. The plant can grow up to 60-90 cm tall and wide when mature, making it an ideal choice for indoor décor.
Origin
Calathea Medallion is native to the rainforests of Brazil, where it grows on the forest floor, under the canopy of trees. It belongs to the Marantaceae family, which consists of around 300 species of flowering plants.
Types of Calathea Medallion
There are different types of Calathea Medallion, and they all have unique features that make them stand out. Some popular types include:
- Calathea Medallion ‘Beauty Star’: This variety has leaves with bright green stripes and pink-colored undersides. It is smaller in size than the regular Calathea Medallion.
- Calathea Medallion ‘Dottie’: This variety has dark green leaves with pink spots and pink undersides. The pink spots on the leaves make them stand out.
- Calathea Medallion ‘Bicajoux’: This variety has light green leaves with white stripes and pink undersides. It is a rare variety that is difficult to find.
Care Guide
Calathea Medallion is a relatively low-maintenance plant, but it requires specific care to thrive. Below are some essential care tips for this tropical houseplant.
Light Requirements
Calathea Medallion thrives in bright but indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can cause its leaves to burn, while too little light can make the plant leggy and sparse. Therefore, it is essential to place the plant in a well-lit area away from direct sunlight.
Watering
Calathea Medallion requires frequent watering, and the soil should always be moist. However, it is crucial not to overwater the plant, as this can lead to root rot. It is best to water the plant once or twice a week, depending on the humidity level of your home.
Humidity
Calathea Medallion thrives in high humidity environments. Therefore, it is essential to keep the plant in a well-humidified room or use a humidifier. Alternatively, you can mist the leaves regularly to increase humidity around the plant.
Soil
Calathea Medallion requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It is best to use a peat-based soil mix that is moist but not waterlogged.
Temperature
Calathea Medallion thrives in warm temperatures ranging from 18-26°C. It is essential to keep the plant away from cold drafts or hot air vents that can affect its growth.
Fertilizer
Calathea Medallion requires regular feeding to maintain its vibrant foliage. It is best to use a balanced fertilizer every four weeks during the growing season.
Repotting
Calathea Medallion requires repotting every year or when the plant outgrows its pot. It is best to repot the plant in the spring when it starts to produce new growth. Use a pot that is one size larger than the previous one and ensure it has drainage holes to avoid waterlogging.
Pruning
Calathea Medallion requires minimal pruning, but it is essential to remove dead or yellowing leaves to keep the plant healthy. Use sharp scissors or pruning shears to cut the leaves near the base.
Propagation
Calathea Medallion can be propagated through division during repotting. Carefully divide the plant into smaller sections and repot them individually.
Pests and Diseases
Calathea Medallion is susceptible to pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. Check the plant regularly for any signs of infestation and treat it immediately using insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by fungal diseases such as leaf spot or powdery mildew. Remove any affected leaves and ensure proper ventilation to prevent the spread of the disease.
Read more: Calathea Ornata: Care Guide and Plant Profile
Conclusion
Calathea Medallion is a stunning tropical houseplant that adds a touch of elegance to any indoor space. Its beautiful foliage, combined with its low-maintenance care requirements, makes it a popular choice among plant enthusiasts. By following the care guide outlined in this article, you can ensure that your Calathea Medallion thrives and remains healthy for years to come.
FAQs
How often should I water Calathea Medallion?
- Ans: Calathea Medallion requires frequent watering, and the soil should always be moist. However, it is essential not to overwater the plant, as this can lead to root rot. It is best to water the plant once or twice a week, depending on the humidity level of your home.
Can Calathea Medallion tolerate low light?
- Ans: Calathea Medallion thrives in bright but indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can cause its leaves to burn, while too little light can make the plant leggy and sparse. Therefore, it is essential to place the plant in a well-lit area away from direct sunlight.
How often should I fertilize Calathea Medallion?
- Ans: Calathea Medallion requires regular feeding to maintain its vibrant foliage. It is best to use a balanced fertilizer every four weeks during the growing season.
How do I propagate Calathea Medallion?
- Ans: Calathea Medallion can be propagated through division during repotting. Carefully divide the plant into smaller sections and repot them individually.
What are some common pests that affect Calathea Medallion?
- Ans: Calathea Medallion is susceptible to pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. Check the plant regularly for any signs of infestation and treat it immediately using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
