Calathea vs Maranta: Two Gorgeous Houseplants to Elevate Your Home Decor

Whether you're an avid plant parent or just looking for a way to liven up your living space, houseplants are an easy and effective way to add some natural beauty and charm to any room. Calathea and Maranta are two popular houseplants that are loved for their stunning foliage and unique characteristics. But what sets them apart? In this article, we'll take a closer look at Calathea vs Maranta, comparing their appearance, care requirements, and more.

Appearance

The first thing you'll notice about Calathea and Maranta is their striking foliage. Both plants are known for their colorful and intricate leaves, which come in a variety of shapes and patterns. However, there are some key differences between the two:

Calathea

Calathea leaves are typically larger and more rounded than Maranta leaves. They often have bold stripes or markings in shades of green, yellow, pink, and purple. Some popular varieties include Calathea orbifolia, Calathea zebrina, and Calathea medallion.

Maranta

Maranta leaves are more elongated and narrower than Calathea leaves, with intricate patterns that resemble feathers or veins. They tend to have a darker green color with splashes of red or purple. Some popular varieties include Maranta leuconeura (also known as prayer plant) and Maranta bicolor.

Care Requirements

While Calathea and Maranta may look similar at first glance, they have different needs when it comes to care:

Calathea

Calathea prefers bright, indirect light and moist soil that is well-draining but not too dry. It's important to keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged, as overwatering can cause root rot. Calathea also thrives in humid environments, so consider placing a tray of water nearby or using a humidifier if the air in your home is dry.

Maranta

Maranta prefers lower light levels and slightly drier soil than Calathea. While it still needs to be kept moist, it's important to let the top layer of soil dry out between waterings to avoid overwatering. Maranta also benefits from higher humidity levels, so misting the leaves or placing a humidifier nearby can help it thrive.

Propagation

If you want to expand your collection of Calathea or Maranta, both plants can be propagated easily:

Calathea

Calathea can be propagated through division or stem cuttings. To divide the plant, gently remove it from its pot and separate the roots into smaller sections, each with several stems and leaves. Repot each section in fresh soil and water thoroughly. To take stem cuttings, select a healthy stem and cut it just below a leaf node. Remove the lower leaves and place the cutting in water or moist soil until it forms roots.

Maranta

Maranta can also be propagated through division or stem cuttings. To divide the plant, carefully separate the roots into smaller sections and repot them in fresh soil. To take stem cuttings, follow the same steps as with Calathea.

Calathea Orbifolia

Final Thoughts

So, which plant is better: Calathea or Maranta? The truth is, both plants are stunning in their own way and have unique features that make them stand out. Choosing between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference and the conditions in your home. Whether you opt for a bold and colorful Calathea or a delicate Maranta, incorporating these gorgeous plants into your home decor is sure to bring joy and beauty into your daily life.

Calathea, Maranta, houseplants, foliage, care requirements, propagation