Calathea Vs. Maranta - Are Calathea And Maranta The Same

Both Maranta and Calathea are each a separate genus within this family, and both are tropical understory plants. ... They are often lumped together, with both being called 'prayer plant,' which isn't true. Both plants belong to the arrowroot family, Marantaceae, but only the Maranta plants are true prayer plants.

Is calathea the same as prayer plant?

Calatheas, better known as 'Prayer plants,' are all members of the genus Maranta, to which genus Calathea is closely-related. If you're new to prayer plants and humidity-loving Calatheas, we'll walk you through where they come from and how to care for them.

Why are Calatheas called prayer plants?

This hardy indoor plant earned its common name from the fact that the leaves tend to fold together at night, like a pair of praying hands. Most types of prayer plant have variegated foliage, adding to the plant's overall interest. Prayer plant does produce flowers, but they're not large or particularly showy.

Is Maranta Leuconeura a Calathea?

The Marantaceae plant family includes both the Maranta and Calathea genera. Closely related and very similar in appearance, plants in both genera are often referred to as prayer plants—and both have many cultivars. ... The leaves of Maranta leuconeura var.

How do you identify Calathea?

A bold and beautiful houseplant, calathea looks good even without flowers. There are lots of varieties of calathea, but one of the most common has luscious, dark green leaves that have scalloped edges and silver brushmarks on the top of the leaves. Underneath, the leaves are a lovely shade of burgundy purple.

Where should I put my Calathea?

Calathea plants like to be on the moist side, but they do NOT like to dry out completely. A good rule of thumb that I like to use for these plants is to allow the surface of the soil to dry out, and then water again. Maybe the top inch or so smaller pots. If you have a huge pot, maybe allow the top 2 inches to dry out.

Is Calathea hard to care for?

Calathea plants are popular as indoor plants because they are relatively easy to care for. ... Calathea like to have moist soil or planting substances, but not soggy. They do not want lots of water, as it can drown them.

What is the easiest Calathea?

Calathea lancifolia – Also know as Rattlesnake Plant, this long narrow-leafed calathea is also considered the easiest in the family.

Why do Calathea leaves close at night?

Calathea is also special for another reason: it closes its leaves at night and opens them again in the morning! ... Light moves the joints and, as a result, Calathea's leaves open and close – which is sometimes accompanied by a rustling sound.

Do Calathea like to be root bound?

A calathea root bound plant should be repotted as soon as possible. Although it is a simple process, repotting calatheas can only be done properly if you use a calathea potting mix and the correct type of planter since both will help to prevent root rot and other fungal diseases.

How often should I water my Maranta?

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.

How fast does Calathea Orbifolia grow?

The Calathea orbifolia has a moderately-fast growth rate indoors. Eventually, the exotic houseplant can reach 3 ft. (0.9 m) in height. The striking glossy leaves can grow up to 1 ft.

Why do Calathea leaves curl?

Low Humidity Is A Very Common Cause Of Calathea Leaf Curling. Humidity is essential for a healthy Calathea. These plants absorb moisture through their wide leaves; if the air dries up, the leaves will start to curl and yellow.

How big does a Calathea Freddie get?

Calathea Freddie Plant Features

An average indoor plant gets about 2 to 3 feet in height.

How do you divide Calathea?

Gently remove the plant from its container. Separate the roots to seclude areas of new growth. If necessary, divide at the root system with a sharp, clean cut. Make sure each clump has part of the root system and that each leaf is attached to a stem.

Does Calathea like coffee grounds?

Sugars, milk or flavorings might attract bugs or lead to mold on the soil (more people nuisances than plant problems). 4.) Lean toward species that prefer acidy soil, such as African violets, calathea, Norfolk Island pine, dieffenbachia, anthurium and peperomia, for example. Coffee has an acidifying effect on soil.

How do you encourage Calathea growth?

Use Espoma's organic potting soil when it's time to repot your calathea. In the event your calathea is not looking so hot, cut the leaves off to the bottom of the stem to encourage new growth. These plants are good at making a comeback and grow quickly. Feed plants regularly with Espoma's liquid Indoor!

When should I repot my Calathea?

Repotting - It is a good idea to repot your calathea once every year or every other year to give it fresh soil and nutrients. When to repot - Once a year or every other year. Pot sizing - if you want your plant to grow wider, find a nursery pot that's 2” in diameter larger than the current pot.

How do I keep Calathea happy?

Like all houseplants, calathea enjoy filtered or dechlorinated water, and can be a little more demanding than other houseplants. Simply fill your watering can and leave it overnight to dissipate the chlorine. If there are other chemicals in your tap water, try using filtered or distilled water instead.

Does Calathea purify air?

Calathea. A beautiful tropical houseplant, calathea thrives in spots with high humidity, making it a particularly good pick for kitchens and bathrooms. There is a wide variety of types available; all are good at making clean air in homes and offices.

How do you revive a dying Calathea?

Calatheas do best in more humid environments, so you can recreate that humidity by spraying water. Then, you can make sure the leaves don't get too dry. You don't have to spray a ton of water on the leaves, but you can add a bit to increase the humidity on and around the plant.