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Description
Maranta Leuconeura Erythroneura, commonly known as the prayer plant or herringbone plant, is a popular houseplant among plant enthusiasts. It belongs to the Marantaceae family and is native to the tropical regions of Brazil. The plant is known for its unique foliage, which folds up at night, resembling hands folded in prayer.This plant has oval-shaped leaves with green veins and a reddish-brown color on the underside. The leaves have a striking pattern of dark green spots and blotches on a light green background, which makes it a popular choice as a decorative plant.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Zingiberales |
| Family | Marantaceae |
| Genus | Maranta |
Appearance
The Maranta Leuconeura Erythroneura grows up to 12 inches tall and 18 inches wide. Its leaves are oval-shaped and can grow up to 6 inches long. The plant’s striking feature is its unique foliage pattern of dark green spots and blotches on a light green background. The leaves fold up at night, revealing the reddish-brown color on the underside. The plant also produces small white flowers, but they are not as noticeable as the foliage.
Care Guide
To keep your Maranta Leuconeura Erythroneura healthy, follow these care guidelines:Water: The plant prefers to be kept consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks.Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix that contains peat moss or perlite.Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, while low light can cause the plant to lose its vibrant color.Hardiness Zones: The Maranta Leuconeura Erythroneura is not frost-tolerant and should be kept indoors in a warm environment.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Maranta Leuconeura Erythroneura is susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled by wiping the leaves with a damp cloth or using an insecticidal soap. The plant can also be affected by fungal diseases, such as leaf spot and root rot. These can be prevented by avoiding overwatering and providing good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
The Maranta Leuconeura Erythroneura is native to the tropical regions of Brazil. It grows on the forest floor in shady and humid environments, where it receives filtered light.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Maranta Leuconeura Erythroneura be propagated?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated through division. Simply divide the plant into smaller sections and plant them in separate containers.Q: How often should I fertilize my Maranta Leuconeura Erythroneura?
A: Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season.Q: Can the Maranta Leuconeura Erythroneura be grown outdoors?
A: The plant is not frost-tolerant and should be kept indoors in a warm environment.Q: What is the ideal temperature range for the Maranta Leuconeura Erythroneura?
A: The plant prefers temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C).
Related Plants
Other popular Maranta species include:
- Maranta Arundinacea
- Maranta Fascinator
- Maranta Kerchoveana
- Maranta Tricolor
References
- “Maranta leuconeura.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=h660
- “Maranta leuconeura erythroneura.” The Plant List. http://www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/record/kew-2526018
- “How to Care for a Prayer Plant.” The Spruce. https://www.thespruce.com/growing-prayer-plants-indoors-1902760
