Description
Red Prayer Plant |”Maranta leuconeura ‘Erythroneura’”
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.
Care for Red Prayer Plant
Sunlight
Thrives in medium to bright indirect light. Not suited for intense, direct sun.
Water
Water every 1–2 weeks, allowing the soil to dry out halfway down between waterings. Expect to water more often in brighter light and less often in lower light.
Maranta’s 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 colouring or brown blotches on leaves
CAUSE: Too much direct sun
SYMPTOM: Yellowing leaves, rotting stems
CAUSE: Overwatered
Precautions
This plant is pet-friendly. The best practice is always to keep houseplants out of reach of small children and pets.
