Calathea 'Medallion' – A living work of art in your home

Calathea 'Medallion' is aptly named: its huge, round leaves look like ornate medallions or hand-painted miniatures. This plant is not just a houseplant, but one of nature's most beautifully patterned creations, which can be the jewel in the crown of any modern interior.

The origin of the 'Medallion' calathea

This green beauty originates from the tropical rainforests of South America, particularly Brazil. It belongs to the Marantaceae family. In its native habitat, it lives in the undergrowth beneath the canopy of huge trees, where filtered light, constant warmth, and high humidity reign. It requires this tropical pampering in our homes as well.

Characteristics of Calathea 'Medallion'

'Medallion' is one of the most decorative Calathea varieties:

• Striking leaf pattern: Its large, round leaves are decorated with different shades of green, which enclose a central pattern. The underside of the leaves is a deep purple/burgundy color, which provides a dramatic contrast.

• Compact growth: It is a low-growing plant, rarely exceeding 60 cm in height, making it perfect for tables or lower shelves.

• Summer flowering: Although mainly valued for its leaves, it can also produce small white or pink flowers in summer.

• Moving leaves: In the evening, this variety also spectacularly "closes" its leaves, then spreads them out again in the morning towards the light.

Caring for Calathea 'Medallion': Tips for a gorgeous appearance

'Medallion' requires a little extra attention, but its appearance more than compensates for the care it needs.

Light requirements and placement

• Light conditions: It prefers indirect light only. Never expose it to direct sunlight, as its sensitive leaves will quickly burn and the beautiful pattern will fade.

• Location: It feels most comfortable near a bright, north- or east-facing window.

Watering and humidity

• Moisture: It likes its soil to be slightly moist, but is very sensitive to overwatering. Always check the soil: do not allow water to collect in the bottom of the pot!

• The secret to humidification: As a rainforest plant, it loves high humidity. It will thank you if you regularly wipe its leaves with lukewarm water – this not only removes dust, but also helps the plant to "breathe."

• Water quality: 'Medallion' is also sensitive to tap water; if possible, use rainwater or standing water for watering.

• The huge leaves of Calathea 'Medallion' are real dust magnets, and since the plant also transpires through its leaves, cleaning them is essential. As I mentioned earlier, store-bought leaf polishes leave an oily film that clogs the pores – but there is a gentler, homemade method.

  Natural leaf shine "recipe" for Calathea

  The secret lies in a mixture of lemon juice and distilled water:

  • Ratio: Add 3-4 drops of fresh lemon juice to a glass of lukewarm distilled water (or rainwater).

  • Why does it work? The mild acid in lemon gently removes the white limescale spots left behind after spraying with tap water and gives the leaves a natural shine without clogging the pores.

  • Application: Dip a soft microfiber cloth into the mixture, wring it out well, then support the leaf from below with one hand and gently wipe the surface.

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  Another secret: The "Medallion" sleep

  Many people are alarmed when they bring their first 'Medallion' palm home because the plant looks completely different in the evening.

  • During the day: The leaves stand horizontally to capture as much filtered light as possible with the surface of the "painting."

  • At night: The leaves stand vertically, revealing their dark purple undersides.

  • Tip: If your plant doesn't "open up" in the morning, it usually means that it is in a place that is too dark or that it is very thirsty!