Maranta Leuconeura Red

The Maranta Red is also more commonly known as the prayer plant. It folds its leaves up ‘in prayer’ at night when the level of light drops.

Propagation:

This plant will propagate in both water and soil. Water propagation is my preference because you can see things happen as it grows!

Place your cutting in a jar/vase/tube of room temperature water. Make sure the nodes (small bumps on the plant) are submerged in the water. 
Keep it somewhere that matches the light and temperature specifications shared below. 

When propagating plants, it’s key to keep the humidity UP while the plants root. Higher humidity levels boost the propagation process.

Change out the water once a week or when it looks murky, and top it up when needed. Fresh water will help oxygenate the cutting and prevent algae build-up.

Roots should start to develop within 3-4 weeks. 

Pot the plant up when the roots are approximately 5cm long.

View our propagation guide for more info!

Lighting:

This plant will thrive in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct contact with the sun as this can burn the leaves. The ends of the leaves will crisp up if it isn’t happy.

Temperature:

This plant is quite tolerant and will thrive in temperatures between 18 and 30℃.

Humidity:

Maranta appreciate higher levels of humidity. Normal room humidity of around 40-50% will suffice, but higher humidity is better. This can be achieved by using a humidifier, grouping plants together, or by growing the plant in a sealed mini greenhouse. A big cookie jar, clear tub or terrarium will do the trick!

Potting:

Maranta like to trail and are often grown in hanging baskets. It’s important to pot the plant in a well-draining soil mix that contains lots of bark and perlite. Also key is to use a pot that has drainage holes at the bottom.
These plants should be repotted every year or so as needed.

Watering:

This plant is quite tolerant. Water thoroughly to mimic tropical jungle conditions and allow the water to drain through properly before returning the plant to its decorative pot. Wait for the soil to dry a bit before you water the plant again. 

Invest in a moisture meter to help you monitor the levels of moisture in the soil so that you can only water it as needed.

Fertilising:

As with most tropical plants, you should feed this plant during the growing season. Aim to feed it every second week.

Other information:

Cleaning your leaves regularly will help prevent pests. Rosecare Spray or other alternatives can be applied if you come into contact with any pests.