Both prayer plants share similar leaf movement patterns, but calathea’s bold stripes contrast with maranta’s more subtle veining. If you’re trying to decide between maranta vs calathea, you might be surprised to learn that these two popular houseplants are actually close cousins. They both fold their leaves up at night like praying hands, which is why they get the nickname “prayer plants.”
But they are not the same plant. In fact, they belong to different genuses entirely. Maranta is in the Maranta genus, while calathea is now officially called Goeppertia by botanists. Most nurseries still use the old name though, so don’t let that confuse you.
The good news? You can grow both successfully in your home. You just need to know what makes each one tick. This guide breaks down every difference so you can pick the right one for your space.
Maranta Vs Calathea: Key Differences At A Glance
Before we get into the nitty-gritty, here is a quick comparison table. This will help you see the main differences right away.
- Leaf Shape: Maranta leaves are oval and rounded. Calathea leaves are longer, lance-shaped, or oval with more pointed tips.
- Leaf Pattern: Maranta has feathered veins or spots. Calathea has bold, painted-on stripes or intricate mosaic patterns.
- Growth Habit: Maranta grows as a trailing or creeping plant. Calathea grows upright in clumps.
- Night Movement: Maranta folds leaves up dramatically. Calathea also moves but often less noticeably.
- Flowers: Maranta produces small white or purple flowers. Calathea flowers are less common indoors and often hidden.
- Difficulty: Maranta is generally easier for beginners. Calathea is more demanding and sensitive.
That is the short version. Now, let’s look deeper at each category so you can make the best choice.
Leaf Shape And Texture
This is the easiest way to tell them apart at a glance. When you look at a maranta, you will see broad, oval leaves that feel soft and velvety. The edges are smooth and the tips are blunt or slightly rounded.
Calathea leaves are usually longer and more elongated. They have a pointed tip and a more rigid, leathery texture. Some calathea varieties, like the orbifolia, have round leaves, but most are oval-lance shaped.
If you run your finger along the leaf, you will notice a difference too. Maranta leaves are often slightly fuzzy. Calathea leaves are smooth and sometimes have a glossy sheen.
Leaf Patterns And Colors
This is where calathea really shines. Calathea leaves are famous for their dramatic, high-contrast patterns. Think of the calathea orbifolia with its silver stripes or the calathea roseopicta with its pink centers. These patterns look almost painted on.
Maranta patterns are more delicate. The most common variety, the red maranta, has green leaves with red veins running through the center. Another popular type, the lemon lime maranta, has light green leaves with bright yellow-green feathered veins.
Maranta patterns are usually symmetrical and follow the vein structure. Calathea patterns are often geometric and do not follow the veins at all. This is a key visual difference.
Growth Habit And Size
Maranta plants are natural trailers. In the wild, they grow along the forest floor, sending out runners. Indoors, they will spill over the sides of a pot. You can grow them in hanging baskets or let them trail from a shelf. They rarely grow taller than 12 inches.
Calathea plants grow upright. They form dense clumps of leaves that rise from the soil. They can reach 2 to 3 feet tall, depending on the variety. This makes them excellent floor plants or statement pieces on a plant stand.
If you have limited horizontal space, a calathea might be better. If you want to fill a vertical space with cascading foliage, go with a maranta.
Night Time Leaf Movement
Both plants move their leaves in response to light. This is called nyctinasty. At night, the leaves fold upward or close together. In the morning, they open back up to catch light.
Maranta is more dramatic with this movement. You can actually watch the leaves rise and fall over the course of a day. The red maranta is especially active. Calathea also moves, but the change is subtler. You might not notice it unless you look closely.
This movement is why they are called prayer plants. It looks like they are folding their hands in prayer. It is a fun feature to observe, especially for kids.
Watering Requirements
This is where many people run into trouble. Both plants hate dry soil, but they also hate soggy roots. The key is consistency.
For maranta, water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Stick your finger in the soil. If it feels dry at the first knuckle, it is time to water. Maranta is forgiving if you are a few days late.
Calathea is more demanding. It prefers soil that is always slightly moist. But you cannot let it sit in water. If you let calathea dry out completely, the leaves will curl and the edges will turn brown. This is a common problem.
Here are some watering tips for both:
- Use room temperature water. Cold water shocks the roots.
- Use filtered or distilled water. These plants are sensitive to chlorine and fluoride.
- Water less in winter when growth slows down.
- Always check the soil before watering. Do not follow a strict schedule.
Humidity Needs
Both plants come from tropical rainforests. They love humidity. Average home humidity is often too low for them, especially in winter.
Calathea is the more sensitive of the two. If the air is too dry, the leaf tips will turn brown and crispy. You might also see curling leaves. Calathea needs humidity levels of 60% or higher.
Maranta is a bit more tolerant. It can survive in average household humidity, but it will look better with extra moisture. Aim for 50% humidity or more.
To increase humidity, you can use a humidifier, place a pebble tray with water under the pot, or group plants together. Misting helps temporarily, but it is not a long-term solution.
Light Requirements
Neither plant likes direct sunlight. In the wild, they grow under the canopy of larger trees. Bright, indirect light is what you want.
Maranta can handle slightly lower light conditions. It will still grow, just slower. If the leaves start to lose their color or the pattern fades, it needs more light.
Calathea needs brighter indirect light to maintain its vivid patterns. Too little light and the colors will wash out. Too much direct sun and the leaves will scorch and fade.
A north or east-facing window is ideal for both. If you only have a south or west window, place the plant a few feet back from the window or use a sheer curtain.
Soil And Potting Mix
Both plants need well-draining soil that retains some moisture. A standard potting mix is okay, but you should amend it.
A good mix for both plants includes:
- 2 parts all-purpose potting soil
- 1 part perlite for drainage
- 1 part orchid bark for aeration
- A handful of peat moss or coco coir for moisture retention
This mix will hold water long enough for the roots to drink, but it will also allow excess water to drain away. Make sure your pot has drainage holes. Neither plant likes to sit in standing water.
You should repot your plant every 1 to 2 years. Do this in spring. Choose a pot that is only 1 to 2 inches larger than the current one. These plants like to be slightly root-bound.
Common Problems And Solutions
Even with perfect care, you might run into issues. Here are the most common problems and how to fix them.
Brown Leaf Tips
This is the most common complaint. It usually means the air is too dry, or you are using tap water with chemicals. Switch to filtered water and increase humidity. Trim off the brown tips with clean scissors.
Curling Leaves
Curling leaves on calathea usually means the plant is thirsty or the air is too dry. Check the soil. If it is dry, water immediately. If the soil is moist, the humidity is likely too low.
Yellow Leaves
Yellow leaves often mean overwatering. Check the roots for rot. If the soil is soggy, let it dry out more between waterings. Make sure the pot has good drainage.
Faded Leaf Color
If the patterns are fading, the plant is getting too much light. Move it to a shadier spot. Direct sunlight will bleach the leaves.
Pests
Both plants can get spider mites, especially in dry conditions. Check the undersides of leaves regularly. If you see fine webbing, wipe the leaves with insecticidal soap.
Mealybugs and fungus gnats can also be a problem. Isolate new plants for a few weeks to prevent infestations.
Which One Should You Choose?
Now that you know the differences, how do you decide? It comes down to your experience level and your home environment.
If you are a beginner, go with a maranta. It is more forgiving. It tolerates lower humidity and inconsistent watering. It also grows faster, so you will see progress quickly. The trailing habit is lovely in a hanging planter.
If you are up for a challenge and want a showstopper, choose a calathea. The foliage is stunning and worth the extra effort. But you need to be committed to providing high humidity and consistent moisture. Calathea is not a plant you can ignore for a week.
Here is a simple breakdown:
- Choose Maranta If: You are new to houseplants, want a trailing plant, have average humidity, or want faster growth.
- Choose Calathea If: You have experience with fussy plants, want an upright statement piece, can provide high humidity, or love bold patterns.
You can also grow both. They have similar care needs, so they will thrive together in the same room. Just make sure you give each one enough space to grow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions people ask about these two plants.
Are Maranta And Calathea The Same Plant?
No, they are different genuses. Maranta is in the Maranta genus, and calathea is in the Goeppertia genus. They are related but not the same.
Which Prayer Plant Is Easier To Care For?
Maranta is easier. It is more tolerant of lower humidity and missed waterings. Calathea is more sensitive and demands consistent care.
Do Both Plants Move Their Leaves At Night?
Yes, both exhibit nyctinasty. They fold their leaves up at night. Maranta shows more dramatic movement than calathea.
Can I Grow Maranta And Calathea In The Same Pot?
Yes, you can. They have similar care requirements. Just make sure the pot is large enough and the soil drains well.
Why Are The Edges Of My Calathea Leaves Turning Brown?
This is usually due to low humidity or tap water with chemicals. Increase humidity and use filtered or distilled water.
Final Thoughts On Choosing Between The Two
Both maranta and calathea are beautiful additions to any indoor garden. They bring a touch of the tropics into your home. The choice really depends on your lifestyle and how much time you want to spend on plant care.
If you want a low-fuss plant that still looks amazing, maranta is your friend. It will forgive your mistakes and keep growing. If you are ready for a challenge and want a plant that looks like living art, calathea is worth the effort.
Whichever you pick, you will enjoy watching the leaves move and change throughout the day. These plants are interactive and fascinating. They are not just static decorations; they respond to their environment.
Start with one plant and see how it goes. You might find that you want to collect them all. Many plant lovers end up with several varieties of both. They are that addictive.
Just remember to check the soil before watering, keep the humidity up, and give them bright, indirect light. Do that, and your prayer plants will reward you with lush, healthy foliage for years to come.
So, which one will you bring home? A trailing maranta or a bold calathea? Either way, you are making a great choice. Happy planting.