Exposure & location

The Calathea Medallion appreciates bright environments but without direct sunlight, which could burn its delicate foliage. It thrives in soft, filtered, or semi-shaded light—perfect for city apartments.

• Light: indirect and filtered, sheltered from direct sun.
• Ideal rooms: bright living room, peaceful bedroom, or well-lit bathroom.
• Temperature: between 18 and 26 °C, without sudden changes.
• Humidity: likes humid atmospheres, close to its original tropical environment.
• Location: away from radiators or hot air vents, which dry out the ambient air.

Verdeia tip: place your Calathea on a tray filled with moist clay balls to recreate its natural climate and preserve the brightness of its foliage.

Watering & care

The secret to a radiant Calathea lies in regular and moderate watering, with soft, non-calcareous water. The soil must remain slightly moist without being waterlogged, to avoid yellowing or wilting of the leaves.

• Watering frequency: twice a week in spring–summer, once every 7 to 10 days in winter.
• Type of water: demineralized, filtered, or rainwater, at room temperature.
• Substrate: light, airy, and draining, ideally enriched with coconut fibers or perlite.
• Misting: frequent (1 to 2 times/week) to maintain high humidity.
• Fertilizer: every 3 to 4 weeks, in small doses, from April to September.

Verdeia advice: if the edges of its leaves brown, it is often a sign of too dry air. Then increase misting or bring it closer to other plants to create a humid microclimate.

Decor ideas & plant combinations

Graphic, textured, and full of character, the Calathea Medallion stands out as a decorative centerpiece. Its round and contrasting leaves create a rare depth and elegance effect in modern interiors.

• In a golden, sage green, or matte ceramic planter cover, it becomes a focal point of your space.
• On a light piece of furniture, it highlights minimalist lines and brings a refined tropical touch.
• In a grouped composition, it balances solid or dark foliage thanks to its silver patterns.
• Paired with a Philodendron Imperial Green or a Maranta Leuconeura, it creates a graphic and zen harmony.

Verdeia tip: rotate your pot a quarter turn each week for even growth and dense foliage.

Verdeia advice

• Regular maintenance: wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust and promote leaf breathing.
• Controlled watering: prefer slight water shortage rather than excess—roots fear stagnant moisture.
• Stable atmosphere: avoid drafts and sudden temperature changes.
• Repotting: every 12 to 18 months, in spring, to renew the substrate and stimulate growth.
• Visual well-being: observe the movement of its leaves—their opening and closing naturally mark the day and bring a sense of calm.

By following these simple steps, your Calathea Medallion will remain radiant all year round. A true tropical gem, it instantly transforms your interior into an oasis of softness and urban serenity.

Technical characteristics

• Botanical name: Calathea veitchiana ‘Medallion’
• Common name: Peacock plant
• Family: Marantaceae
• Origin: Tropical forests of South America
• Plant type: Indoor tropical
• Foliage: Green and silver, purple underside
• Approximate height: 45 cm
• Pot diameter: 14 cm
• Maximum adult size: up to 70 cm
• Exposure: Soft light, partial shade tolerated
• Watering: Regular and moderate
• Care: Easy to moderate
• Air-purifying effect: Yes
• Toxicity to animals: Non-toxic

Each Calathea is unique: the density, shape, and patterns of its leaves vary according to light and seasons. This is what makes this living and expressive plant so charming.