15 - 25cm Maranta Fascinator in Hanging 14cm Pot

The Maranta leuconeura, commonly known as the Prayer Plant or Maranta Fascinator, is beloved for its striking, oval leaves marked with red veins, dark green patterns, and a lighter, almost silvery green centre. This unique foliage folds upward in the evening, resembling praying hands, giving it the nickname “prayer plant.” Native to the tropical forests of Brazil, Maranta Fascinator is perfect for hanging pots or tabletops. Here’s a care guide to keep it thriving:

1. Light Requirements

• Optimal: Bright, indirect light helps maintain vibrant colours and encourages healthy growth. A north- or east-facing window is ideal for indirect light without harsh sun.
• Tolerant: It can handle low light, but the colours may become muted, and growth may slow. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch its delicate leaves.

2. Watering Needs

• Frequency: Water once the top 2.5 cm of soil feels dry, generally every 1-2 weeks. The soil should remain consistently moist, but never soggy.
• Signs of Overwatering: Yellowing leaves, particularly at the base, and root rot may occur with excessive moisture.
• Signs of Underwatering: Dry, crispy leaf edges and curling leaves are common indicators of underwatering.

3. Humidity

• Ideal: High humidity (60% or more) is essential to keep the foliage healthy and prevent brown tips. It’s particularly sensitive to dry indoor air.
• Tip: Use a humidifier nearby, mist the plant regularly, or place it on a humidity tray to boost moisture levels. Grouping it with other plants can also help create a micro-humid environment.

4. Temperature

• Optimal Range: 18-27°C. The prayer plant thrives in typical indoor temperatures, provided there are no extreme fluctuations.
• Avoid: Temperatures below 15°C, sudden temperature changes, or cold drafts, as these can cause leaf curling and wilting.

5. Soil Requirements

• Type: A well-draining potting mix with good moisture retention is essential. A peat-based mix with added perlite or orchid bark works well to keep the roots happy.
• pH: Slightly acidic (5.5-6.5) to mimic its native soil conditions.

6. Feeding

• Frequency: Feed every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertiliser diluted to half strength.
• Autumn and Winter: No need to fertilise, as growth slows down naturally.

7. Pruning and Maintenance

• Pruning: Trim back leggy growth to encourage bushier growth, and remove any yellowing or damaged leaves to maintain a healthy appearance.
• Maintenance: Clean the leaves gently with a damp cloth to remove dust, allowing better light absorption. Pinching the tips will help it grow denser and maintain its compact, bushy appearance.

8. Propagation

• Method: Maranta is propagated through division or stem cuttings. When repotting, you can divide a larger plant, or take stem cuttings with a node to root in water or moist soil.
• Time: Spring or summer is best for propagation when the plant is actively growing.

9. Common Pests and Problems

• Pests: Maranta Fascinator can attract spider mites and mealybugs in dry conditions. Regularly check the undersides of leaves and treat any infestations with insecticidal soap.
• Issues: Curling leaves often indicate low humidity or insufficient water, while brown edges or spots suggest either low humidity or fertiliser burn.

10. Repotting

• Frequency: Every 1-2 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound, usually in early spring. Repotting refreshes the soil and gives the plant room to grow.
• Tip: Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one to avoid waterlogging from excess soil.

With its intricate, colourful foliage and gentle movement in response to light, Maranta Fascinator is a mesmerising addition to any indoor space. Though it requires a bit of attention to humidity and watering, it rewards care with lush, beautiful growth and unique leaf patterns that add life to any room.

Note Pot colour will change depending on stock