Calathea ‘Maui Queen’: Informational Guide with Care & Facts
The Calathea ‘Maui Queen’ is a rare houseplant that’s part of the overarching Marantaceae (aka Prayer Plant) family. Displaying daily plant movement is just one of the stunning traits this plant possesses— it also features a gorgeous foliage design with feather-like markings. This tropical indoor plant needs a moderate level of care, making it a great choice for those plant parents looking to up their plant game.
Names: Calathea ‘Maui Queen’, Calathea louisae ‘Maui Queen’, Goeppertia louisae ‘Maui Queen’
Origin: With plant parents descending from tropical Brazilian rainforests, the Calathea ‘Maui Queen’ is a hybrid cultivar. And despite the common name, it actually isn’t a part of the Calathea genus— while Calathea is still considered a synonym, it was recently reclassified to the Goeppertia genus. The true nomenclature is Goeppertia louisae ‘Maui Queen’.
About: With oblong, dark green leaves, the ‘Maui Queen’ displays a unique cream-colored pattern down the center. This pattern looks hand painted like a nature-made brushstroke. The undersides of the leaves are a deep purple which adds to the bold aesthetic of the plant.
This indoor plant can grow to about 3 feet high and 3 feet wide. As a rhizomatous evergreen perennial, the ‘Maui Queen’ makes a desirable houseplant that can be propagated by division.
As a member of the Prayer-Plant family, the leaves naturally lower during the day and rise at night. This extraordinary phenomenon is believed to be a functional adaptation that helps the plant absorb and reflect light as well as conserve water.
Indoor Care: Enjoying tropical vibes, this plant loves warmth, humidity, protection from the sun, and moisture.
Sun
Specifically, position the ‘Maui Queen’ in an indoor spot that isn’t exposed to direct sunlight— make sure there’s moderate to bright (indirect) light though! Leaves will burn if they come in contact with sun rays.
Water
This plant will need to be watered regularly and the soil needs to be kept moist throughout. However, the plant will not tolerate soggy or saturated soil, so ensure that there’s great drainage in place (like a pot with holes at the bottom). In addition, never allow the soil or roots to sit in water as this can quickly lead to root rot damage and eventual death.
Moisture
For added moisture, the ‘Maui Queen’ may benefit from supplemental humidity. If you notice the tips of the leaves turning brown and crispy, that’s usually a sign that the plant wants some extra moisture. An easy way to do this is by adding a pebble tray filled with water to the bottom of the plant pot (for the plant to sit atop). Again, just make sure there’s absolutely no soil or roots exposed to the water. As the water gets evaporated, the plant will absorb extra moisture from the air. You can also mist the plant with water— but make sure it’s a very light mist and not more than once a week. Too much water on the leaves can lead to issues and leave the plant susceptible to fungal disease.
Weather
This plant will not tolerate extreme weather or vast temperate changes. A delicate specimen, try to keep a normal indoor temperature of 65-85℉. Freezing temperatures will shock and kill the plant, as can severe heat.
Extra Care:
The ‘Maui Queen’ requires a well-draining potting mix. When supplied with fertilizer during the growing season, this houseplant will continue to put out new growth. We recommend a granular houseplant fertilizer, applied monthly during spring and summer. Using half of the recommended amount on the bottle will help the plant's ability to grow without being too harsh. Too much fertilizer can be detrimental and cause harm to the plant. As the plant enters colder months, it will likely go dormant and you’ll need to stop supplying nutrients.
Every year or two, your ‘Maui Queen’ will want to be repotted to support new growth. Choose a pot that’s only a couple of inches larger than the one it’s currently living in. As with fertilizing, wait until the warmer months for this process.
While pests and disease are rare, the Calathea ‘Maui Queen’ could experience spider mites in its lifetime. Checking the leaves regularly for tiny movements or webs can help keep potential issues at bay.
Interesting Tidbit: This stunning plant can flower in the wild. While it’s rare indoors, it can happen when provided excellent care and conditions.
Toxicity: Considered nontoxic when ingested by humans, cats, and dogs.
Buy Online: Calathea ‘Maui Queen’ — 6 Inch