Calathea Medallion is a perennial, flowering plant grown from tuberous, underground roots. It grows indoors or outdoors. The medallion is a selected cultivar of Calathea Veitchiana.
Calathea prefer soil that is consistently evenly moist at all times but not soggy. If the top 2” of the soil become dry then your plant is ready to be watered. If you let the soil dry out too much, you may see browning, yellowing, or curling leaves, but don't fear.
While it may seem counterintuitive for a plant that is considered tropical, calathea plants actually prefer filtered, indirect light or shade.
Calathea do not need a lot of fertilizing, but they will flower and do well with standard houseplant fertilizer during spring, summer and fall. They especially need fertilization during periods of growth and flowering. During the spring and summer, fertilize Calatheas with a balanced all-purpose fertilizer like a 10/10/10 on the NPK ratio (Nitrogen/Phosphorous/Potassium).
A peaty potting mixture that is lightweight and airy works best, as does any specialty mix geared towards African violets. Additionally, calathea plants prefer slightly acidic soil, thriving best in an environment with a pH of around 6.5.
Balmy temperatures are your best bet when it comes to keeping your calathea happy. Choose a spot in your home that's consistently toasty—calathea thrive when kept at temperatures ranging from 70 degrees Fahrenheit to 85 degrees Fahrenheit, but can tolerate a drop down to 60 degrees Fahrenheit (but no lower).
Be sure to plant your calathea in a pot with drainage holes at its base; although it likes moist soil, it is still susceptible to root rot if it becomes waterlogged.
