The Marantaceae family, often called the prayer plant family, includes plants known for their beautiful leaves and unique movements. Two popular types in this family are Calathea vs. Maranta. These plants are pretty and easy to care for, making them a favorite for both new and experienced gardeners.
Distinct Genera: Calathea vs. Maranta
While Calathea and Maranta are in the same family, they are different in many ways. Knowing these differences can help you pick the right plant for your home and ensure it grows well. Calathea plants are often called “peacock plants” or “zebra plants” because of their bright and decorative leaves. Maranta plants are known as “prayer plants” because they fold their leaves at night, looking like praying hands.
Visual Differences Between Calathea vs. Maranta
Leaf Shapes and Patterns
Maranta: Oval Leaves with Vein Markings
Maranta plants have oval-shaped leaves with clear vein and rib markings. These markings often come in different colors, making the leaves look striking. The most famous Maranta is the red-veined prayer plant. It has dark green leaves with red veins and a light green center. This unique look makes Maranta plants a beautiful addition to any indoor garden.
Calathea: Varied Leaf Shapes and Bright Patterns
Calathea plants have different leaf shapes, including rounded, oval, and lance-shaped forms. Their leaves often have bright patterns that look painted on, making them very decorative. Some popular Calathea types are the rattlesnake plant, with its long, wavy leaves and dark green spots, and the peacock plant, which has large, rounded leaves with detailed patterns in green, purple, and white.
Color Variations and Aesthetic Appeal
Maranta: Subtle and Elegant
Maranta leaves usually have more subtle color changes, with shades of green and red being the most common. Their elegant look makes them perfect for adding a touch of class to any space. The red-veined prayer plant, for example, has a delicate beauty that can enhance any room without overpowering the decor.
Calathea: Vibrant and Decorative
Calathea leaves are known for their bright colors and detailed patterns, which can include shades of green, purple, pink, and white. These plants are often called “peacock plants” or “zebra plants” because of their decorative leaves. The striking look of Calathea plants makes them a focal point in any indoor plant collection, adding a touch of exotic beauty to your home.
Growth Habits of Calathea vs. Maranta
Maranta’s Low-Growing Habit
Ideal for Hanging Pots
Maranta plants grow low, making them perfect for hanging pots where their spreading stems can dangle gracefully. This growth habit creates a lush, cascading effect that adds greenery to any space. Hanging pots also provide a good environment for Maranta plants to thrive, as they allow for good air circulation and prevent water from building up around the roots.
Spreading Stems and Foliage
The spreading stems of Maranta plants can cover a large area, making them great for ground cover in suitable climates or for creating a dense, leafy display in hanging pots. This growth habit also makes Maranta plants a good option for filling empty spaces in your indoor garden, as their lush leaves can quickly create a full, vibrant look.
Calathea’s Upright Growth
Shrubby Appearance
Calathea plants grow more upright, with a shrubby look that makes them good for container gardening. Their upright growth habit allows them to stand out as focal points in any indoor plant collection, adding height and structure to your arrangement. This growth habit also makes Calathea plants a great choice for placing on tables or shelves, where their striking leaves can be easily admired.
Best Container Practices
To ensure healthy growth, choose the right container for your Calathea plant. Pick a pot with good drainage and enough space for the plant’s roots to grow. Calathea plants like slightly moist soil, so choose a container that allows for proper water retention without becoming waterlogged. Adding a layer of pebbles or gravel at the bottom of the pot can help improve drainage and prevent root rot.
Environmental Preferences
Light Requirements
Thriving in Low Light Conditions
Both Calathea and Maranta plants thrive in low light conditions, making them perfect for indoor environments where direct sunlight is limited. However, they do appreciate bright, indirect light for optimal growth. Placing your plants near a north or east-facing window can provide the ideal lighting conditions, as these locations receive gentle, filtered light throughout the day.
Watering Needs
Importance of Distilled Water
When watering Calathea and Maranta plants, use distilled water or rainwater. Tap water can contain minerals and chemicals that may harm these sensitive plants. Distilled water is free from impurities, ensuring that your plants receive the purest form of hydration. Rainwater is also an excellent option, as it is naturally soft and free from harmful additives.
Off-Gassing Tap Water
If distilled water is not available, let tap water sit out overnight to allow any harmful chemicals to off-gas before using it to water your plants. This simple step can help reduce the risk of damage to your Calathea and Maranta plants, ensuring they receive the best possible care.
Temperature Sensitivity
Maranta’s Cold Tolerance
Maranta plants are more tolerant of cold temperatures compared to Calathea. They can withstand temperatures as low as 55°F (13°C) without significant damage. However, it’s still important to protect your Maranta plants from extreme cold and sudden temperature changes, as these can cause stress and affect their overall health.
Calathea’s Sensitivity to Cold
Calathea plants are more sensitive to cold and should be kept in environments where temperatures do not drop below 60°F (16°C). Sudden temperature changes can cause their leaves to curl or develop brown edges, so maintain a consistent, warm environment for your Calathea plants. Placing them in a room with stable temperatures and away from drafts can help ensure their well-being.
Pest Management for Calathea vs. Maranta
Common Pests
Identifying Insect Pests
Both Calathea and Maranta plants can be affected by common houseplant pests such as spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. Regularly inspecting your plants can help you catch infestations early and take appropriate action to prevent further damage. Look for signs of pests, such as discolored or distorted leaves, webbing, or sticky residue on the foliage.
Effective Pest Control Methods
Using Alcohol Wipes
One effective method for controlling pests is to use alcohol wipes to clean the leaves and stems of your plants. This can help remove pests and prevent further infestations. Simply dampen a cloth or cotton swab with rubbing alcohol and gently wipe down the affected areas. Be sure to test a small area first to ensure the alcohol does not damage the plant.
Horticultural Oil Sprays
Horticultural oil sprays are another effective option for managing pests on Calathea and Maranta plants. These sprays can suffocate pests and prevent them from causing further damage. When using horticultural oil, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and apply the spray evenly to all affected areas. Avoid using oil sprays during hot or sunny weather, as this can cause the oil to burn the plant’s leaves.
Common Confusion: Prayer Plants
Understanding the Term ‘Prayer Plant’
The term ‘prayer plant’ is often used to refer to both Calathea and Maranta plants, but only Maranta species are true prayer plants. This name comes from their unique behavior of folding their leaves at night, resembling praying hands. This nightly movement is a fascinating characteristic that sets Maranta plants apart from other members of the Marantaceae family.
True Prayer Plants: Maranta Species
Maranta plants are the true prayer plants, known for their nightly leaf movements. This behavior is facilitated by a joint-like thickening at the base of each leaf called the pulvinus, which allows the leaves to move in response to changes in light. This unique characteristic not only adds to the plant’s charm but also makes it a captivating addition to any indoor garden.
Cultivation Tips for Calathea vs. Maranta
Outdoor Cultivation in USDA Zones 9 to 11
In USDA zones 9 to 11, both Calathea and Maranta plants can be grown outdoors. They thrive in shaded areas with high humidity and well-draining soil. When planting outdoors, choose a location that provides protection from direct sunlight and strong winds. Adding a layer of mulch around the base of the plants can help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Indoor Cultivation Practices
For those outside of USDA zones 9 to 11, Calathea and Maranta plants are typically grown as houseplants. Providing the right light, humidity, and watering conditions is key to their success indoors. Placing a humidifier near your plants or using a pebble tray can help maintain the high humidity levels they require. Additionally, regular misting can help keep the leaves hydrated and prevent them from drying out.
Additional Information from Online Research
Maranta: The Prayer Plant
Leaf Movement and Pulvinus
Maranta plants are named for their unique behavior of folding their leaves at night, a movement facilitated by the pulvinus. This joint-like thickening at the base of each leaf allows the plant to respond to changes in light. This nightly movement is not only a fascinating characteristic but also a sign of a healthy, thriving plant.
Calathea: The Peacock Plant
Striking Leaf Patterns and Colors
Calathea plants are often referred to as “peacock plants” due to their striking leaf patterns and vibrant colors. These plants can add a touch of exotic beauty to any indoor plant collection. The intricate patterns and bold colors of Calathea leaves make them a standout choice for anyone looking to add a splash of color and visual interest to their home.
Before You Go – Calathea vs. Maranta
Summary of Key Differences
While both Calathea and Maranta plants belong to the same family, they have distinct differences in their appearance, growth habits, and care requirements. Understanding these differences can help you choose the right plant for your home and ensure it thrives in your care. Whether you prefer the elegant, low-growing habit of Maranta or the vibrant, upright growth of Calathea, both plants can make excellent additions to your indoor garden.
Choosing the Right Plant for Your Home
Whether you prefer the elegant, low-growing habit of Maranta or the vibrant, upright growth of Calathea, both plants can make excellent additions to your indoor garden. By providing the right conditions and care, you can enjoy the beauty and unique characteristics of these fascinating plants.
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If you’ve landed on our Calathea vs. Maranta page, you’re in for a leafy showdown. But wait! Our home page is the ultimate hub of plant wisdom. Here’s how they complement each other:
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References – Calathea vs. Maranta
Little Herb Encyclopedia, by Jack Ritchason; N.D., Woodland Publishing Incorporated, 1995
The Ultimate Healing System, Course Manual, Copyright 1985, Don Lepore
Planetary Herbology, Michael Tierra, C.A., N.D., Lotus Press, 1988
Handbook of Medicinal Herbs, by James A. Duke, Pub. CRP Second Edition 2007
The Complete Medicinal Herbal, by Penelope Ody, Published by Dorling Kindersley
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FAQs – Calathea vs. Maranta
What are the main differences between Calathea and Maranta plants?
Calathea plants are known for their vibrant and decorative foliage, while Maranta plants have more subtle color variations and are known for their unique leaf movements at night.
Can Calathea and Maranta plants be grown outdoors?
Yes, both plants can be grown outdoors in USDA zones 9 to 11. They thrive in shaded areas with high humidity and well-draining soil.
What is the best way to water Calathea and Maranta plants?
It’s best to use distilled water or rainwater for watering these plants. If distilled water is not available, let tap water sit out overnight to allow any harmful chemicals to off-gas before using it.
How can I control pests on my Calathea and Maranta plants?
Regularly inspecting your plants and using alcohol wipes or horticultural oil sprays can help control common houseplant pests such as spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs.
Why are Maranta plants called prayer plants?
Maranta plants are called prayer plants because of their unique behavior of folding their leaves at night, resembling praying hands. This movement is facilitated by a joint-like thickening at the base of each leaf called the pulvinus.
What are some popular varieties of Calathea and Maranta plants?
Popular Calathea varieties include the rattlesnake plant and the peacock plant, while popular Maranta varieties include the red-veined prayer plant.
By understanding the unique characteristics and care requirements of Calathea and Maranta plants, you can choose the right plant for your home and enjoy their beauty and charm for years to come.