Calathea Vs Maranta: Understanding the Differences

Indoor plants have been the trend lately, and if you're a plant enthusiast, you may have heard of Calathea and Maranta. These two plants are known for their unique foliage patterns, making them perfect as decorative pieces in your home. However, some people often mistake one for the other, which can lead to confusion. In this article, we'll discuss the differences between Calathea and Maranta so that you can identify which is which.

The Similarities Between Calathea and Maranta

Calathea and Maranta belong to the same family, the Marantaceae family, and share some similarities. Firstly, both plants originate from tropical regions where they grow in the shaded understory of the forest. They require humid environments with temperatures ranging between 60-75°F (15-24°C). Secondly, both plants feature striking foliage adorned with intricate patterns that make them highly desirable among houseplant enthusiasts. Lastly, they both are relatively easy to care for, which makes them great for beginners.

Distinguishing Characteristics of Calathea

Calathea plants are also known as "prayer plants" because of how their leaves move. The leaves fold up at night, creating an appearance that they are praying. Here are the distinguishing features of Calathea:

• Leaves: Calathea leaves are wider and rounder than Maranta leaves. Their leaves have more prominent patterns with bold colors like green, purple, and pink.
• Leaf movement: As mentioned earlier, Calathea leaves move during the day and night. During the day, the leaves lay flat, revealing the pattern on the leaf's surface. At night, the leaves fold up, revealing the undersides' purple coloration.
• Light requirements: Unlike most indoor plants, Calathea prefers indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, causing permanent damage.
• Growth habit: Calathea plants grow upright, reaching heights of up to three feet. They grow slowly and need repotting every two years.
• Humidity needs: Calathea loves humid environments, and you may need to mist the leaves regularly or use a humidifier to keep its moisture levels high.

Calathea leaves have prominent patterns with bold colors.

Distinguishing Characteristics of Maranta

Maranta plants are also called "prayer plants," just like Calathea. However, their name comes from the way their leaves move. When it gets dark, the leaves fold up, making it look like they're praying. Here are the distinguishing features of Maranta:

• Leaves: Maranta leaves are longer and narrower than Calathea leaves. Their leaves have softer patterns with lighter colors like green, white, and grey.
• Leaf movement: As mentioned earlier, Maranta leaves move at night, folding up and revealing the undersides' lighter coloration.
• Light requirements: Maranta does well in low to medium indirect light. Direct sunlight can burn the leaves and cause permanent damage.
• Growth habit: Maranta plants grow outward, with their leaves spreading out horizontally. They grow quickly and need repotting every year.
• Humidity needs: Maranta loves humid environments, and you may need to mist the leaves regularly or use a humidifier to keep its moisture levels high.

Maranta leaves have softer patterns with lighter colors.

In summary, both Calathea and Maranta belong to the Marantaceae family, have striking foliage patterns, and share some similar growing conditions. However, they differ in their leaf shape, color, light requirements, growth habit, and humidity needs. Knowing these differences will help you identify which plant is which and ensure that you provide them with the best growing conditions possible.

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