Prayer Plant - Maranta leuconeura 'Fantasy' / 'Light Veins'

Scientific Name
Maranta leuconeura (Maranta's white string plant) 'Fantasy' / 'Light Veins'

Common Name
Maranta Leuconeura, Maranta Marisela, Light Veins Prayer Plant

Origin
Native to tropical Brazilian forests

Description
This Maranta's leaves have rays of light-striped variegation across each leaf, in pale variegation which really makes it stand out and glow. This is in addition to the Maranta's usual patterning, with darker splotches and clearly demarcated veins. As a Prayer Plant, this clever species' leaves will raise and lower to greet the sun and maximise light exposure. Unlike other types of variegation, Maranta variegation is consistent across the whole plant, meaning each leaf will get the same pattern because it is coded into its genes. Choose this variety for its stunning colours and watch it overflow your pot and reach for the sun!

Light
Give this plant bright, indirect light throughout spring and summer; it will appreciate a splash or morning or evening sun in autumn and winter. This variety appreciates a brighter spot more than some other Marantas due to its paler leaves, so if it isn't moving its leaves up and down often this probably means it's a bit too shaded.

Water
Allow the top quarter of the soil to dry out between waters; make sure to keep an eye on this, especially in brighter spots where the soil will dry out quicker.

Humidity
Likes high humidity, so will benefit from the introduction of a humidity tray and regular misting. Hose down the plant to keep it dust-free and keep an eye out for curling, browning leaves indicating low humidity.

Soil
Use a well-aerated soil mix which also retails moisture well to keep this plant happy; a mix of light components such as coir with moisture-retentive vermiculite or zeolite works well. Repot every two years in spring as the plant grows.

Food
Feed every four waters in the growing season, and reduce to every six in autumn and winter.

Temperature
Ideal temperature is 18-27°C; make sure it does not get colder than 15°C in winter.

Pet-safe
Yes, but too much nibbling won't be good for pets, small humans or the plant!

Sprouts Top Tips
Keep an eye on your Maranta's leaves for an indication of its health; yellow leaves signify overwatering and soggy soil whilst brown, crispy leaves indicate too little humidity.