Affectionately known as the “prayer plant,” the Calathea Majestica Whitestar is a true gem of the plant kingdom. Hailing from the lush tropical rainforests of Brazil, this stunning foliage plant boasts an ethereal beauty that will captivate your senses. 

Meet “Iggy,” your new plant companion, whose majestic presence will elevate any indoor space.

With its large, oval-shaped leaves adorned with intricate patterns of white brush strokes against a deep green canvas, the Calathea Majestic Whitestar is a sight to behold. 

But this beauty requires more than just admiration – it demands attentive care to thrive. Fear not, for this comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge to unlock Iggy’s full potential and bask in its radiant splendor.

LIGHTING

The Calathea Majestic Whitestar prefers medium, indirect light – the sweet spot between too much and too little. Direct sunlight can be detrimental, often resulting in unsightly burned leaves. To provide the perfect lighting conditions, position Iggy near an east or north-facing window, where it can bask in the gentle, filtered rays.

Alternatively, you can strategically place your prayer plant a few feet away from a south or west-facing window, ensuring it receives ample indirect light without the harsh glare of direct sunlight. 

During the winter months, when natural light is scarce, consider supplementing with grow lights or relocating Iggy to a brighter spot in your home.

WATERING

Striking the right balance with watering is crucial for the Calathea Majestic Whitestar’s well-being. This plant enjoys small amounts of water on a regular basis, so make it a habit to check the soil moisture level weekly. 

Stick your finger into the soil up to the second knuckle – if it feels dry, it’s time to water. Be cautious not to overwater, as soggy soil can lead to root rot and other issues.

During the winter months, when growth slows down, you can reduce watering frequency to once a week or less, but always check the soil before adding any moisture. 

Remember, Iggy prefers a semi-moist environment, so strive to maintain that delicate balance between dryness and saturation.

HUMIDITY

As a native of the Brazilian tropics, the Calathea Majestic Whitestar thrives in high humidity conditions. To replicate its natural habitat, consider the following options:

1. Humidifier: Invest in a reliable humidifier and position it near your prayer plant to maintain optimal moisture levels in the air.
2. Pebble Tray: Place Iggy’s pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water, ensuring the pot rests above the water line. As the water evaporates, it will create a humid microclimate around the plant.
3. Bathroom: The steamy environment of a bathroom can provide the perfect humidity levels for your Calathea Majestic Whitestar, especially after a hot shower.
4. Group Planting: Cluster your humidity-loving plants together, creating a mini rainforest atmosphere where they can share and benefit from the combined moisture.

By maintaining high humidity levels, you’ll not only ensure Iggy’s vibrant foliage but also prevent unsightly brown edges and leaf curling.

TEMPERATURE

The Calathea Majestic Whitestar thrives in warm, tropical temperatures ranging from 18°C to 24°C (64.4°F to 75.2°F). As long as the indoor temperature doesn’t dip below 18°C (64.4°F), Iggy will remain a happy and content plant companion.

It’s essential to shield your prayer plant from cold drafts, which can cause leaf curling and stunted growth. 

Keep it away from open windows, doors, and air conditioning vents during cooler months. Additionally, avoid placing Iggy near radiators or other heat sources, as sudden temperature fluctuations can stress the plant.

FERTILISER

To promote lush, vibrant growth, feed your Calathea Majestic Whitestar with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season, which typically spans from March to September. Exercise caution – these plants have sensitive roots that can easily suffer from fertilizer burn.

To mitigate this risk, always dilute the fertilizer to one-quarter of the recommended strength. This simple step will ensure your plant receives the necessary nutrients without overwhelming its delicate root system.

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REPOTTING

The Calathea Majestic Whitestar is a fast-growing plant, and as it matures, it will require more space for its expanding root system. During the spring and summer months, when growth is at its peak, keep an eye on the bottom of the nursery pot. If you notice roots peeking out, it’s time to upgrade to a larger container.

Repotting not only provides fresh soil and room for growth but also rejuvenates the plant, encouraging new foliage and a vibrant appearance. 

Aim to repot Iggy annually, using a well-draining potting mix specifically formulated for tropical plants.

TROUBLESHOOTING YOUR CALATHEA MAJESTIC WHITESTAR

Even with the best care, plants can sometimes exhibit signs of distress. Here’s how to troubleshoot common issues with your Calathea Majestic Whitestar:

Curling Leaves

If you notice Iggy’s leaves curling inward, it’s likely a sign that the plant is suffering from cold drafts or temperatures below its preferred range. Immediately move the plant away from any open windows, doors, or air conditioning vents, and position it in a warm, draft-free area of your home.

Drooping Leaves

Drooping leaves are often an indication of underwatering. The Calathea Majestic Whitestar prefers its soil to be consistently semi-moist, so if the top few inches of soil feel bone dry, it’s time to water thoroughly. Remember, these plants are prone to dramatic leaf movements – while drooping during the day is normal, perking up at night is a good sign.

Yellow Leaves

Yellow leaves can be a symptom of overwatering or overly wet soil conditions. If you notice this issue, cut back on watering and remove any affected leaves by snipping them off at the base of the plant. Ensure proper drainage by using a well-draining potting mix and a pot with ample drainage holes.

Brown Edges

Brown edges on the leaves can be caused by a variety of factors:

• Hard Water: The Calathea Majestic Whitestar is sensitive to the minerals and chemicals found in hard water. Switch to using filtered or distilled water for watering and misting.
• Low Humidity: Increase humidity levels by employing one of the methods mentioned earlier, such as using a humidifier or pebble tray.
• Over-fertilizing: Excessive fertilization can burn the plant’s delicate roots, leading to browning of the leaf edges. Always dilute fertilizers and follow the recommended application schedule.

OUR TOP 3 CARE TIPS

1. Avoid Drafts: The Calathea Majestic Whitestar is highly sensitive to cold drafts, which can cause severe damage. Keep Iggy away from open windows, doors, and air conditioning vents, especially during cooler months.
2. Clean the Foliage: Dust can accumulate on the large leaves of your prayer plant, hindering its ability to photosynthesize effectively. Every three weeks, gently wipe down the foliage with a soft, damp cloth or use a leaf-shine product specifically designed for houseplants.
3. Use Filtered Water: To prevent the buildup of minerals and chemicals that can lead to brown leaf edges, always water and mist your Calathea Majestic Whitestar with filtered or distilled water. Harsh tap water can be detrimental to the plant’s health.

By following these top tips and the comprehensive care guide outlined above, you’ll be well on your way to cultivating a thriving, awe-inspiring Calathea Majestic Whitestar that will be the envy of all plant enthusiasts.

Remember, caring for this stunning tropical beauty is a labor of love, but the rewards are immeasurable. Embrace the journey, and let Iggy’s majestic presence grace your home with its captivating foliage and serene energy.