Calathea and Maranta

Description

Calathea and Maranta are very similar plants, both with rhizomatous roots, both with leaves, oval or lanceolate, borne on long petioles, variously mottled in shades of green and purple. The detailed patterns of the foliage render these plants unique and precious.

Cultivation

Plants belonging to the Maranta family prefer diffused light; exposure to solar rays must be carefully avoided. The temperature must be high and must never drop below 16°. The soil must be very soft; peat and sand must be mixed with garden earth. Watering must always be carried out with water at room temperature. Excellent draining of the pot is essential to guarantee the well-being of these plants that love humidity but greatly fear water stagnation at the roots, which causes root rot. During the vegetative period, manuring must take place approximately every three weeks.

Propagation

Propagation is by division of the clumps, an operation to be carried out in spring.