Calathea Medallion (Goeppertia veitchiana 'Medallion') – Detailed Description

Calathea Medallion is one of the most striking and recognisable prayer plants, admired for its large, beautifully patterned leaves and vibrant tropical appearance. Native to the rainforests of South America, this stunning houseplant features broad, rounded leaves with intricate dark green feathered markings surrounding a lighter green centre. The undersides of the foliage display rich burgundy-purple tones, creating an impressive contrast that becomes especially noticeable as the leaves move throughout the day.

The bold leaf patterns resemble painted brushstrokes, making Calathea Medallion a true statement plant that adds elegance and colour to any interior. As a member of the Marantaceae family, it is known as a "Prayer Plant" because its leaves gently fold upwards in the evening and reopen during the day in response to changing light levels.

Calathea Medallion thrives in warm, humid environments similar to its native rainforest habitat and is ideal for bright living rooms, bedrooms, offices and bathrooms where humidity levels are naturally higher. Although it enjoys consistent care, its spectacular foliage more than rewards the effort, making it one of the most popular Calathea varieties.

When mature, Calathea Medallion typically reaches 50–80cm in height and develops into a full, bushy plant with lush foliage that provides year-round interest.

Calathea Medallion Care Guide

Light

Calathea Medallion prefers bright, indirect light.

Position it near an east or north-facing window, or slightly back from a bright south or west-facing window where the sunlight is filtered.

Avoid prolonged direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves, fade their intricate markings and cause crispy brown edges.

While the plant can tolerate lower light conditions, growth may become slower and the foliage colours less vibrant.

Best location: Bright room with filtered, indirect light.

Watering

Keep the compost evenly moist without allowing it to become waterlogged.

Water thoroughly whenever the top 2–3cm of soil begins to dry, ensuring excess water drains away completely.

Never allow the soil to dry out entirely, but equally avoid leaving the roots sitting in water, as this can lead to root rot.

Reduce watering slightly during autumn and winter when growth naturally slows.

Calatheas are sensitive to chemicals commonly found in tap water, so using rainwater, filtered water or distilled water can help prevent brown leaf edges.

Humidity

High humidity is essential for healthy foliage.

Aim for humidity levels above 60%, with 70% or higher being ideal.

To increase humidity:

• Use a humidifier.

• Group plants together.

• Place the plant on a pebble tray filled with water (ensuring the pot sits above the water level).

• Position it in naturally humid rooms such as bathrooms.

Dry indoor air is one of the most common causes of brown leaf tips and edges.

Temperature

Calathea Medallion grows best in temperatures between 18°C and 27°C.

Avoid temperatures below 15°C, as prolonged cold can damage the plant.

Keep away from:

• Cold draughts

• Radiators

• Air conditioning units

• Frequently opened exterior doors

Stable temperatures help maintain healthy growth.

Soil

Use a well-draining but moisture-retentive compost.

A suitable mix includes:

• High-quality houseplant compost

• Coco coir or peat-free compost

• Perlite

• Fine orchid bark

This combination provides moisture retention while ensuring excellent drainage and root aeration.

Feeding

Feed every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer using a balanced liquid houseplant fertiliser diluted to half strength.

Avoid excessive feeding, as Calatheas are sensitive to fertiliser salts.

Do not fertilise during autumn and winter.

Growth

Calathea Medallion is a moderate grower under ideal conditions.

Mature plants typically reach:

• Height: 50–80cm

• Spread: 50–70cm

New leaves emerge tightly rolled before gradually unfurling to reveal their striking patterns.

Repotting

Repot every 2–3 years or whenever the plant becomes root-bound.

Spring is the ideal time for repotting.

Move into a pot only one size larger to prevent excessive moisture retention.

Refresh the compost to provide fresh nutrients and improve drainage.

Pruning

Very little pruning is required.

Remove:

• Yellowing leaves

• Brown or damaged foliage

• Old stems at the base

Use clean, sharp scissors or secateurs to avoid damaging healthy growth.

Propagation

The easiest way to propagate Calathea Medallion is by division.

During repotting:

• Carefully remove the plant from its pot.

• Gently separate healthy clumps with established roots.

• Pot each division into fresh compost.

• Water well and keep warm while the new plants establish.

Propagation by division is far more reliable than growing from seed indoors.

Common Problems

Brown Leaf Edges

Usually caused by:

• Low humidity

• Dry air

• Tap water containing minerals or chlorine

• Underwatering

Increase humidity and consider switching to filtered or rainwater.

Yellow Leaves

Often caused by:

• Overwatering

• Poor drainage

• Waterlogged compost

Allow the surface of the soil to dry slightly before watering again.

Curling Leaves

Typically indicates:

• The plant is too dry

• Low humidity

• Cold temperatures

Check soil moisture and move the plant away from draughts if necessary.

Pale or Faded Leaves

Usually caused by too much direct sunlight.

Move the plant to a location with bright but indirect light.

Drooping Leaves

Calathea Medallion naturally moves its leaves throughout the day, so some movement is normal.

Persistent drooping may indicate:

• Water stress

• Temperature fluctuations

• Root problems

Check watering habits and environmental conditions.

Toxicity

Calathea Medallion is non-toxic to cats and dogs, making it an excellent choice for households with curious pets.

Why Choose Calathea Medallion?

Calathea Medallion is one of the most spectacular foliage houseplants available, offering large, beautifully patterned leaves that bring a luxurious tropical feel to any home. Its intricate markings, rich purple undersides and fascinating daily leaf movements make it a standout feature in any indoor plant collection. While it enjoys consistent moisture, warmth and high humidity, its relatively compact size and pet-friendly nature make it well worth the care. Whether displayed as a centrepiece or among a collection of tropical plants, Calathea Medallion provides year-round colour, texture and elegance.