Calathea Medallion (Goeppertia veitchiana) is a popular prayer plant with large, rounded leaves displaying a feathered, painterly pattern of light and dark green on top and a dramatic deep purple-maroon underside. The upright rosette habit gives a full, lush appearance, and the leaves rise and fold at night, opening again by day. It thrives in warm, humid, medium-light conditions with consistently moist soil. Non-toxic to pets, it is a safe and beautiful choice for homes with cats and dogs. Best for shaded, humid rooms, Calathea Medallion brings rich colour and intricate patterning to indoor plant displays and styled interiors.
Specifications
| Family |
Marantaceae |
| Native region |
South America |
| Mature height |
45-60 cm |
| Mature spread |
45-60 cm |
| Growth rate |
Moderate |
| Foliage |
Rounded, feathered green; purple underside |
| Flower colour |
ā |
| Flower season |
ā |
| Climate zone |
Tropical, indoor across India |
Care guide
| Sunlight |
Medium to bright indirect light; no direct sun. |
| Watering |
Keep evenly moist; never fully dry. |
| Soil / mix |
Light, airy, moisture-retentive mix. |
| Temperature |
18-29 C; protect from cold below 15 C. |
| Humidity |
High humidity essential (60%+). |
| Fertilizer |
Diluted balanced feed monthly in season. |
| Pruning |
Remove damaged leaves at the base. |
| Repotting |
Every 1-2 years in spring. |
| Propagation |
Division at repotting. |
| Pests & problems |
Spider mites in dry air; fungus gnats. |
| Toxicity / safety |
Non-toxic to cats, dogs and humans. |
| Difficulty |
Moderate to difficult |
Uses
Lush patterned foliage plant for shaded, humid indoor spaces and pet-friendly homes. Ideal as a styled tabletop or shelf statement.
Growing tips
In India keep Medallion in warm humid shade and water with filtered or rainwater; group plants or use a pebble tray to lift humidity, and avoid direct sun and hard water.