Black Maranta C Rare and Striking Prayer Plant
The Black Maranta is one of the most stunning, yet slowest growing varieties of Maranta. Known for its unique dark markings and signature prayer plant movements, this beautiful plant makes an eye-catching addition to any indoor space. The plant pictured is a representation of the one you will receive.
What to Expect
The plant you see in the images is a representation of the Black Maranta you will receive. Each plant is carefully propagated from our mother plant and is shipped ready to thrive in your home or collection.
Why Choose the Black Maranta?
- True Black Maranta: These are true Black Marantas (not Black Maranta NoID), propagated from our mature mother plant, which has been part of our collection for years. Younger leaves may resemble a Maranta Silver Band, but as the plant matures, striking black markings develop along the silver band on either side of the silver midrib.
- Slow Growing, Long Lasting: While the Black Maranta grows slowly, it rewards patience with its unique leaf pattern and movement, making it a perfect long-term addition to your collection.
Understanding the Genus
Maranta is a genus often referred to as 'prayer plants,' named for their fascinating habit of folding their leaves upward at night, resembling praying hands. This movement allows them to adjust to varying light conditions, positioning their leaves for optimal light exposure during the day and conserving energy at night.
Light and Movement
Prayer plants like the Black Maranta are known for their ability to adjust their leaves throughout the day. When grown under bright grow lights, their leaves angle downward to avoid excessive light exposure. In lower light conditions, you'll notice the leaves angle toward available light, making this plant adaptable to various lighting conditions.
Care Instructions for Black Maranta
Though stunning, the Black Maranta has specific care needs to thrive:
- Humidity: Ideally, maintain humidity levels above 60%, but the plant will cope with standard household humidity. It can even tolerate lower humidity levels in heated homes during winter, though higher humidity will promote better growth.
- Watering: The key to a healthy Black Maranta is to keep its potting mix consistently moist without water-logging. A self-watering pot can help maintain moisture balance.
- Light: Thrives in bright, indirect light but can also tolerate lower light levels or some direct morning sunlight. The ability to move its leaves throughout the day allows it to thrive in varied lighting conditions, including very low light environments.
- Growing Medium: Use a well-draining soil mix (such as 50% perlite and 50% potting mix) to avoid root rot. Black Marantas also grow well in passive hydroponics. However, due to their fine roots, transitioning from soil to hydro can be challenging. It is best to take a cutting, root it in water, and then move the rooted cutting to a hydroponic setup.
- Pest Resistance: Marantas are not prone to pests, but their leaves may curl when the plant is unhappy due to improper light, watering, or root issues.
- Leaf Browning: Tip browning can occur if the plant is exposed to poor airflow or if it experiences prolonged dryness. This can be mitigated by ensuring good air circulation and using a fungicide like Myclobutanil.
Non-Toxic and Safe for Pets
The Black Maranta is a non-toxic plant, making it safe for homes with pets and children. Its unique movement and dark variegation make it a standout in any collection, while being a safe addition to indoor spaces.
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