Prayer plant, Rabbit's tracks

(Maranta leuconeura 'Kerchoviana')

Contact: Diane Relf, Extension Specialist, Environmental Horticulture

August 1996

DESCRIPTION:

Oblong leaves are green on the upper surface with dark green to brown splotches in a line along both sides of the midrib.

FOLIAGE COLORS:

Green and Dark Green, Dark Green and Silver and Red

CONTAINER:

Small planter (hanging basket, terrarium, dish garden), small container.

LIGHT:

Low to medium. Tolerates artificial or existing room light, near a north, east, or west window, and up to 1000 footcandles.

WATER:

Frequent. Water thoroughly, keep soil evenly moist to touch (not saturated). Don't let sit in water.

TEMPERATURE:

Warm. 71 - 85 (degrees F) days, 66 - 75 nights.

HUMIDITY:

High, 60 % or more is best

FERTILIZER:

Every 2 months until fall, then no more for rest of year.

SOIL MIX:

1 part sterilized garden loam, 1 part clean coarse sand or Perlite, and 1/2 to 1 part sphagnum peat moss.

PROPOGATION:

Division, stem cuttings

SELECTION GUIDE:

Select sturdy, shapely, healthy plant free from insect and disease damage. New leaf growth is desirable. Avoid those with yellow or brown leaf margins, wilted or water soaked leaves.

CARE:

Moderate - difficult Can live well under average home conditions, but may be somewhat difficult. Knowledge and experience helpful.

PROBLEMS:

Root rot: Provide adequate drainage. Do not let plant sit in water.
Leaf scorch: Provide adequate water and humidity. Do not overfertilize.
Fertilizer burn: Leach pot 3 times with water between fertilizer applications.

COMMENTS:

Leaves "close" or fold up at night. Requires resting period in winter. Often used in terrariums, hanging baskets, and dish gardens.

This material was developed by Carol Ness as part of the Interactive Design and Development Project funded by the Kellogg Foundation. Mary Miller, Project Director. Diane Relf, Content Specialist, Horticulture. Copyright 1989 by VCE.

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