Maranta ‘Silver Band’
Botanical Name: Maranta leuconeura ‘Silver Band’
Common Name(s): Silver Band Prayer Plant
The Maranta ‘Silver Band’ is a unique and elegant variety of the Prayer Plant, known for its deep green leaves accented by a striking silver stripe down the center. This beautiful contrast gives the plant a sophisticated look, adding a touch of refinement to any indoor space. Native to the tropical rainforests of Brazil, this compact plant typically grows up to 10-12 inches, making it an ideal choice for tabletops, shelves, or hanging planters.
Silver Band Prayer Plants thrive in bright, indirect light, which helps maintain their vibrant silver stripe, though they can adapt to lower light levels with slightly slower growth. High humidity and consistently moist soil are essential for this tropical plant; regular misting and allowing the top layer of soil to dry between waterings can help prevent root rot. This variety also displays the classic “prayer” movement, folding its leaves up at night and reopening during the day.
Note: The Silver Band Prayer Plant is non-toxic to pets, making it a pet-friendly choice for households with animals. It’s still a good idea to monitor pets to ensure they don’t nibble on the leaves, even though it is safe.
Care Insights & Expert Tips
- Prayer plant movement: Maranta plants are known for their unique nighttime behavior. As the sun sets, their leaves fold up, resembling hands in prayer.
- Soil preference: Use a well-draining potting mix that retains moisture.
- Leaf Handling: For all Maranta varieties, the leaves are beautiful, but be cautious when handling the plant. The leaves are delicate and can easily bruise or tear.
- Fertilize & avoid pests: Feed your Maranta plant with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4-6 weeks and treat with neem oil to prevent infestation by pests, such as spider mites and mealybugs.
Visit our plant care library
Find essential tips to keep your plants thriving, vibrant, and healthy.
