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, JacundHow 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
More Species in Goeppertia Genus
Goeppertia zebrina Zebraplant
Goeppertia warscewiczii Jungle Velvet
Goeppertia orbifolia Calathea Orbifolia
Goeppertia fasciata
Goeppertia lancifolia Rattlesnake Plant
Goeppertia crocata Bromeliad
Goeppertia concinna Freddie Plant
Goeppertia undulata
Goeppertia rufibarba Furry Feather Calathea
