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Description
Maranta Leuconeura, commonly known as the prayer plant, is a tropical plant that is native to the rainforests of Brazil. It is a popular houseplant because of its unique foliage and prayer-like movements. The leaves are oval-shaped, with stunning patterns of green, red, and cream that resemble the intricate design of a peacock’s feather. During the day, the leaves are flat, but at night, they fold up and appear as if they are praying. This movement is due to a specialized joint that connects the leaf to the stem.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledonae |
| Order | Zingiberales |
| Family | Marantaceae |
| Genus | Maranta |
Appearance
The prayer plant can grow up to 12 inches tall and 18 inches wide. Its leaves are oval-shaped, and usually grow to about 4-6 inches long. The top of the leaf is a dark green color with bold, colorful markings that vary depending on the cultivar. The underside of the leaf is a lighter green color. The plant also produces small, white flowers that are not particularly showy.
Care Guide
Maranta Leuconeura is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The prayer plant prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves.
- Hardiness Zones: Maranta Leuconeura is not frost-tolerant and is best grown indoors. It is suitable for USDA zones 10 and 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The prayer plant is not particularly prone to pests or diseases, but here are some things to keep an eye out for:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause webbing on the leaves and yellowing. Use an insecticidal soap to get rid of them.
- Mealybugs: These white, cotton-like pests can cause stunted growth and yellowing. Use neem oil to get rid of them.
- Root rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can cause the plant to wilt and die. Make sure the soil is well-draining and only water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Habitat
The prayer plant is native to the rainforests of Brazil, where it grows on the forest floor. It prefers warm, humid conditions and indirect light. It is often found growing under the canopy of larger trees.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I propagate Maranta Leuconeura?
A: Yes, you can propagate the prayer plant by division. Simply carefully separate the roots and leaves of the plant and repot them in fresh soil.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Maranta Leuconeura?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can I grow Maranta Leuconeura outdoors?
A: Maranta Leuconeura is not frost-tolerant and is best grown indoors. It is suitable for USDA zones 10 and 11.
Q: What is the origin of the name “prayer plant”?
A: The name “prayer plant” comes from the way the leaves fold up at night, resembling hands in prayer.
Related Plants
- Calathea
- Stromanthe
- Ctenanthe
- Phrynium
References
- “Maranta leuconeura.” Floridata, 2021, https://floridata.com/plant/186
- “Maranta leuconeura.” Missouri Botanical Garden, 2021, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b498
- “Maranta leuconeura.” Plants of the World Online, 2021, http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:276256-2
