Too much direct light
A Calathea whose bold markings wash out and bleach is almost always getting too much harsh light.
Diagnosis
Too much direct light
What's happening
Calathea Medallion evolved on the shaded rainforest floor and shows off its dramatic pattern in bright, indirect light. In strong direct sun the leaves bleach and fade, the rich green and purple wash out, and the surface can scorch into dry patches — the opposite of the dim-light problem most plants have.
How to fix it
Move the plant out of any direct sun into bright, indirect light — a few feet back from a window, or behind a sheer curtain that softens the rays. The faded patches won't recolor, so trim badly scorched leaves at the base if you want it tidy, and new growth will come in with its full pattern once the light is gentler. If a dim corner is the only alternative, a soft grow light gives even, indirect-style light without the scorching.
What fixes it
- A full-spectrum LED grow light — If your bright window was the only light source, a gentle full-spectrum grow light lights the plant evenly without the harsh sun that bleaches the pattern.
If that doesn't fix it
This is general guidance based on common symptoms; individual plants vary.
Read the full Calathea Medallion care guide →
Reviewed June 2026 · how we check this