|
Prayer-Plant
Maranta leuconeura
E. Morr.
mah-RAN-tah
loo-coe-NUR-ah
Marantaceae
Explanation
of name:
For genus name, see M. arundinacea. Leuconeura means white-nerved
(veined).
Natural
range:
Brazil (HUX)
Recognition:
As with other Marantaceae, there is a thickening where the leaf blade joins the
petiole (although this may be so reduced as to be not apparent, see BAC). This
dwarf, compact species has leaf blades with reddish or grayish or white markings
following the veins, and gray-green to maroon beneath. Inflorescences 2-bracted,
with white, violet, or violet-spotted flowers. The leaves fold at night, giving
the name “Prayer Plant.” Data largely from HUX, BAC
Cultivar
‘Fascinator’ has a red herringbone pattern on the leaves (HUX).
Landscape
uses:
A small, colorful potted plant.
|
Botanical |
English |
FL native |
Growth form
|
Flowering season
|
Typical dimensions
|
Suggested spacing |
Cultural conditions
|
Problems
|
|
Maranta leuconeura |
Prayer Plant |
Exotic |
Rhizomatous Perennial |
|
To 1’ tall |
|
PS
Humid
MO during active growth
Coarse substrate
HUX notes loam to be better than peat |
Sensitive to damage from exposure |
|
