Calathea/Ctenanthe/Maranta

Housing a collection of Calathea, Ctenanthe and Maranta. Calathea, Ctenanthe, and Maranta are all part of the Marantaceae family, often called "prayer plants" because many of them fold their leaves up at night. They have similar care needs but slight differences.

They require bright indirect light, they can tolerate low light, however, may drop in vibrancy of the leaves in variegation and pattern. Aviod direct sun, which can brown the leaves. 

Keep soil constantly moist but not soggy. Water when soil feels dry. Be mindful these plants are sensitive to salts and fluoride. They love high humidity ideally 60-70% having them sit on pebble trays is ideal or group them with other plants to increase humidity. Brown, crispy edges usually means the air is too dry. 

Avoid cold drafts or sudden temperature changes. Use Peat based mix with perlite and orchid bark mix or aroid mix. Feed with liquid fertiliser monthly during Spring and Summer with Powerfeed. Do not feed during the winter months. 

  • Calathea are most fussy when it comes to water quality and humidity. 
  • Ctenanthe are more tolerant than Calathea, but prefers high humidity. 
  • Maranta are usually the most easiest and more forgiving of the three.