Stromanthe thalia 'Magicstar'
Similar to the 'Triostar', the variegation on this Never Never Plant is less extreme, scattered over the leaves in a pattern almost resembling a time-lapse photo of the night sky. The gentler variegation makes it a bit easier to care for than the Triostar, whose large white areas of variegation can die back without proper care.
We're down to the last few in stock of these, and they have a crispy edge or two but are otherwise happy and healthy, so we're discounting them to make up for the damage. Grab a bargain if you like a rescue!
Long narrow, glossy leaves are patterned with flecks of white variegation, with occasional leaves displaying a more extreme variegation pattern as seen in the 'Triostar' cultivar. The undersides of the leaves are a glorious ruby red, which the plant shows off at night as it folds its leaves vertically in a diurnal rhythm as if in prayer - though this behaviour isn't as extreme in Stromanthe thalia as it is in some other members of the Prayer Plant family (Marantaceae).
The accepted botanical name is Stromanthe thalia 'Magicstar', but is also often referred to as Stromanthe sanguinea 'Magicstar', Stromanthe sanguinea and Calathea 'Magicstar'. It's commonly known as Magicstar Prayer Plant, Never Never Plant.
Images pictured in this section are for illustration only. Please see the product photo above for an accurate representation of the size of plant you will receive.
The most important aspect to the health of any house plant is finding a spot which meets it’s basic needs for light, temperature and water.
Perfecting the environment and ensuring long-term care needs are met will take your plant from surviving to thriving.
Read through these care instructions for Stromanthe thalia 'Magicstar' (aka Stromanthe sanguinea 'Magicstar', Stromanthe sanguinea, Calathea 'Magicstar'), and remember if you need help, we’re an email away.
Feed monthly throughout the growing season. Repot when stems are crowded or begin to reach outer 2cm of the pot.
Keep out of prolonged exposure to intense sun which is a bit too harsh for the delicate leaves. Some shade is ok, but it's better to keep in a room which is bright but not too sunny.
Water well and allow the compost to dry slightly. Never allow the soil to completely dry. Prayer Plants appreciate a little oxygen around their roots between waterings, but as a jungle floor plant they are accustomed to always having some moisture around their roots.
Water with filtered water to keep this plant looking its absolute best. The salts in tap water can build up in the compost so if watering with tap water, give the compost a really good flush through once a year in spring to remove any built-up salts.
Night-time temperatures in the winter can drop to 12ºC without any damage as long as daytime temperatures rise above 15ºC. It should be above 15ºC at all times during the growing season or the plant may struggle to grow.
Fairly easy to care for, but a bit more challenging to keep looking its absolute best! While much easier than the 'Triostar' cultivar of this species, it's leaves are still delicate and will quickly get crispy edges if it's in a dry room. The main challenges with this plant are finding the right spot and making sure you give it enough water (but not too much!) and humidity.
All Prayer Plants are non-toxic to pets and people.