Goeppertia majestica aka Majestic Calathea

Taxonomy

Goeppertia majestica, also known as Calathea majestica, is a species of flowering plant in the Marantaceae family. Native to Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Guyana, and northern Brazil, this majestic prayer plant has also been introduced to Venezuela. It is a large member of its genus and has been honored with the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit. This tender evergreen perennial produces glossy green leaves with white lines along the lateral veins, reaching up to 30cm in length on leaf-stalks that can grow up to 40cm tall. Interestingly, like many other species in its genus, Goeppertia majestica exhibits nyctinasty, a fascinating night movement where its leaves fold up. These delightful patterned leaves come in various colors and shapes, making them a popular choice for houseplants.

Common names

Majestic Calathea, Jacund

How to care for Majestic Calathea

Water

Majestic Calathea should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Majestic Calathea loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Majestic Calathea prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Toxicity

Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.

Humidity

The Majestic Calathea is not in need of supplementary humidity. Most water is taken in by plants through their roots, thus soil watering is the most efficient way to provide humidity to your plants.

Fertilizer

The Majestic Calathea should be repotted either when it doubles in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing new potting soil with all the vital nutrients annually is enough to support the growth of the plant, and thus, there is no need for fertilizer. Remember that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.

Growth-pattern

The Majestic Calathea is clumping in nature, with new growth originating from the soil in close proximity to the original plant.

Region of origin

Majestic Calathea’s native range is Tropical Americas.


More info:
Wikipedia