Genus guide
Maranta — 17 species
Part of the Prayer plants family (Marantaceae)
Marantas are low-growing tropical foliage plants celebrated for their richly patterned leaves — bold red veining on the Red Prayer Plant, lime-green markings on Lemon Lime — that fold upward at night in the movement that gives them the name prayer plant. They thrive in bright, indirect light (an east- or north-facing window is ideal) and prefer consistently moist but never waterlogged soil; water when the top inch feels dry and use filtered or room-temperature water to avoid leaf-tip burn. Marantas are non-toxic to both cats and dogs, confirmed by the ASPCA, making the genus a reliable choice for pet-friendly homes.
All Maranta species we cover
- Green Prayer Plant
- Maranta 'Fascinator'
- Maranta 'Kim'
- Maranta 'Lemon Lime'
- Maranta 'Marisela'
- Maranta 'Massangeana'
- Maranta 'Silver Band'
- Maranta Arundinacea
- Maranta Bicolor
- Maranta Cristata
- Maranta leuconeura 'Mint'
- Maranta Leuconeura Green Beauty
- Prayer plant
- Rabbit Foot Prayer Plant
- Rabbit's Foot Prayer Plant
- Red Prayer Plant
- Red Veined Prayer Plant
Maranta — frequently asked questions
Are Maranta plants toxic to cats and dogs?
Most Maranta are pet-safe. Of the 17 Maranta species we cover, 17 are non-toxic on the ASPCA list and 0 carry a toxic or mildly-toxic rating. Even so, confirm the individual species before trusting it around pets.
How much light do Maranta plants need?
Most Maranta do best in bright indirect light. If yours stretches toward the window or loses its variegation it wants more light; scorched or bleached leaves mean it is getting too much direct sun.
Are Maranta easy to care for?
Maranta are moderate to grow: the main requirement is a genuinely bright spot out of harsh midday sun. Get the light right and the rest of their care follows.
How many Maranta varieties are there?
Growli's care library covers 17 Maranta species and varieties — browse them all above. They share a similar light, water and soil pattern, so once you learn one Maranta, the rest follow closely.
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