Marantas, widely known as prayer plants, are one of our favorite types of beginner plant. They’re colorful, forgiving, and playful, with leaves that move up and down with the sun (hence the nickname). This movement is a phenomenon known as nyctinasty–– a plant's circadian rhythmic movements that trigger in response to the onset of darkness.
GENERAL CARE
LIGHT
Place in low to bright indirect light. They are very adaptable, but always avoid direct light.
WATER
Water weekly or when the top 2" of soil feel dry. Soil should stay moist.
FEEDING
Use diluted plant food once a month in the spring and summer. Stop feeding in the fall and winter since the plant goes dormant and will not need the extra nutrients.
TOXICITY
This plant is non-toxic and safe for pets.
Care instructions are usually consistent for most marantas, but we always recommend researching your specific plant to make sure you get it right the first time.
COMMON ISSUES
These tropical plants are not very demanding, but it's important to note that marantas tend to be highly susceptible to leaf tip burn. Avoid watering with tap water, instead using distilled or tap that has been left uncovered for at least 24 hours prior to use. You can read more about water options and why it matters here. Other factors that can cause leaf burn include over-fertilization, so be sure to go easy on the plant foods.