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Maranta leuconeura massangeana
Prayer Plant, Ten-Commandments, Massangeana
| When dusk falls, their handsomely marked leaves fold up to "pray". Two varieties enjoy huge popularity as houseplants, but they also make fine decorative ground covers for tropical and subtropical gardens or conservatory beds. Arrowroot powder comes from the thick rhizomes of Maranta arundinacea, grown as a crop in tropical lowlands. Place in a shaded bed or a window with bright indirect light. Protect from hot sun, dry air and drafts, which cause curling and scorch spots. Need rich, loamy soil, kept constantly moist while growing. In winter, water more lightly and let dry a bit in between. Mist or place pots on wet gravel trays for higher humidity. Usually need repotting annually. Water sparingly until new growth appears. For strongest leaf markings, feed regularly with diluted liquid fertilizer. Grow new plants from basal shoots with 2 or 3 leaves, or divide clumps in early spring. |
Multicolored fishbone patterning on the leaves' upper surfaces contrasts with the reddish-purple undersides.
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Attributes - Maranta leuconeura massangeana
Plant Type: Perennial
Foliage: Evergreen
Height: 8 in. to 1 ft. 2 in.
Width: 1 ft. 2 in.
Sunlight: Partial Sun, Shade
Climate: Zones 10, 11
Notes: Container Plants, Low Maintenance. Susceptible to Root Rot.
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