Maranta Leuconeura Var. Erythroneura – Herringbone Plant

Maranta are spectacularly variegated ornamental houseplants. Sometimes called Maranta leuconeura Fascinator Tricolour, the oval shaped leaves of the Herringbone Plant are incredibly unique.

The leaves are dark green in the centre melding to a lighter green at the margins and alternate light splotches down the centre line. The veins are an eye-catching red, running down the centre of the leaf and branching out in a herringbone pattern.

Often referred to as Prayer Plants, along with their closely related cousins Calathea, Maranta leaves have the unusual characteristic of lying flat during the day and then closing upwards at night as if in prayer. These plants have a low spreading nature and will start to trail as they grow and mature.

Horty Hints

Sun-worshipper! If you have noticed your plant has stopped praying, don’t panic. The plant doesn’t need to move to be healthy, just watch out for scorching.

Location, Location, Location! Too little sun will cause the vivid colours on this plant to fade, too much and it will bleach and burn. A north or east facing window for the win.

Pray goodbye to the dry! If there is little leaf curl, but lots of browning, the leaves aren’t getting enough water. If the soil is already wet, inspect the roots for rot.

Light

Maranta grow best in bright, indirect light, but are hardy enough to tolerate some shade. Avoid direct sunlight as this may scorch the plant.

Watering

Keep the soil moist at all times, but do not overwater or allow the plant to sit in soggy conditions. Watering with soft, lukewarm water is recommended.

Temperature

Average to warm temperatures from 18-27°C but can cope with as low as 15°C. Avoid draughts.

Humidity

Increased humidity levels are a must. Mist frequently. Brown leaf tips are a tell-tale sign that the surrounding air is too dry.

Feed

Apply a balanced fertiliser once or twice a month during the growing season.

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Height & Growth Rate

Maranta leuconeaura is slow growing and typically reaches an ultimate height of around 30cm but can spread up to 50-60cm and will start to trail over time.

Toxicity

The Herringbone Plant is non-toxic. Safe around children and animals.

Air Purifying

This plant filters airborne toxins and is part of our clean air plant collection.

Origin

Maranta leuconeura var. erythroneura is native to the Brazilian Rainforest.

Please note: images show how this plant may look at various stages of maturity. The size you choose may look different.

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