Maranta

Learn how to care for most varieties of Maranta.

Maranta is the type-genus of Marantaceae, and is named in honor of Bartolomeo Maranta, an Italian physician and botanist of the 16th century who organized his knowledge of botanical pharmacology by nomenclature, species identification and medicinal properties.

‘Prayer plant’ is a colloquial term that refers to members of genus Maranta, to which genus Calathea is closely-related. In reality, both are considered to be ‘prayer plants.’ The name comes from the tendency of plants in this family to droop, or ‘pray’ at night. Some of the most popular prayer plants in cultivation are Maranta leuconeura or M. leuconeura ‘Tricolor.’ Many species of Maranta produce rosmarinic acid, one of the active components of rosemary that give it the characteristic rosemary scent.

 

General Care

Sunlight

Thrives in medium to bright indirect light. Not suited for intense, direct sun.

Water

Water every 1–2 weeks, allowing soil to dry out half way down between waterings. Expect to water more often in brighter light and less often in lower light. 

Marantas can be sensitive to hard tap water. Try using filtered water or leaving water out overnight before using. 

Humidity

Normal room humidity is fine, but it prefers more humidity if possible.

Temperature

65°F–85°F (18°C–30°C). It’s best not to let it go below 60°F (15°C).

Common Problems

SYMPTOM: Curling leaves with brown tips
CAUSE: Not enough humidity

SYMPTOM: Washed out coloring or brown blotches on leaves
CAUSE: Too much direct sun

SYMPTOM: Yellowing leaves, rotting stems
CAUSE: Overwatered

Precautions

This plant is pet-friendly. Best practice is always to keep houseplants out of reach of small children and pets.