Is a Prayer Plant the Same as a Calathea?

AvatarBySheryl Ackerman General Planting

If you’ve ever admired the lush, patterned leaves of a prayer plant and wondered about its botanical identity, you’re not alone. The question “Is a prayer plant a Calathea?” often arises among plant enthusiasts eager to understand the subtle differences and connections between these popular houseplants. Both are celebrated for their striking foliage and unique behaviors, making them favorites in indoor gardens around the world.

At first glance, prayer plants and Calatheas share many visual similarities, which can make distinguishing them a bit confusing. Their vibrant leaf patterns and the intriguing way their leaves fold up at night have captivated plant lovers for generations. However, the relationship between these plants is more nuanced than it appears, involving taxonomy, plant behavior, and care requirements that are worth exploring.

Delving deeper into the topic will reveal not only the botanical classifications but also the cultural significance and care tips that set prayer plants and Calatheas apart. Whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or a curious beginner, understanding the connection between these plants will enrich your appreciation and help you nurture them more effectively.

Differences Between Prayer Plants and Calatheas

Though the terms “Prayer Plant” and “Calathea” are often used interchangeably, they refer to related but distinct groups within the Marantaceae family. The confusion largely arises from similarities in leaf movement and appearance, but there are key distinctions in taxonomy, morphology, and care requirements.

Prayer Plants typically refer to species within the genus *Maranta*, notably *Maranta leuconeura*. These plants are known for their unique nyctinastic movement, where their leaves fold upwards at night, resembling praying hands, hence the common name.

Calatheas belong to the genus *Calathea* (recently reclassified under *Goeppertia* in some taxonomies) and exhibit a wider variety of leaf patterns and shapes. While they also display nyctinastic movements, their leaf textures and growth habits differ from those of true Prayer Plants.

Key differences include:

  • Leaf Texture: Prayer Plants usually have smoother, slightly glossy leaves, whereas Calatheas often possess velvety or matte leaves.
  • Pattern Complexity: Calatheas tend to exhibit more intricate and colorful leaf patterns compared to the relatively simpler designs on Prayer Plants.
  • Growth Habit: Prayer Plants generally have a lower, spreading growth habit, while Calatheas can grow taller and more upright.
  • Botanical Classification: Prayer Plants belong to *Maranta*, whereas Calatheas belong to *Calathea* or *Goeppertia* genera.

Common Species Within Each Group

Understanding which plants fall under each category can help clarify care needs and expectations.

Group Species Common Name Distinctive Features
Prayer Plant (*Maranta*) *Maranta leuconeura* Prayer Plant Oval leaves with herringbone patterns, folds up at night
Prayer Plant (*Maranta*) *Maranta arundinacea* Arrowroot Plant Broad leaves, cultivated for edible starch
Calathea (*Calathea* / *Goeppertia*) *Calathea makoyana* Peacock Plant Feather-like leaf patterns with dark edges
Calathea (*Calathea* / *Goeppertia*) *Calathea ornata* Pinstripe Calathea Dark green leaves with pink stripes
Calathea (*Calathea* / *Goeppertia*) *Calathea lancifolia* Rattlesnake Plant Long, lance-shaped leaves with wavy edges and dark blotches

Care Differences Between Prayer Plants and Calatheas

Both Prayer Plants and Calatheas require similar general conditions but have subtle differences in their care preferences that can affect their health and appearance.

  • Light:
  • Prayer Plants prefer bright, indirect light but tolerate moderate shade.
  • Calatheas generally require lower light conditions and can be sensitive to direct sunlight, which may scorch their leaves.
  • Watering:
  • Prayer Plants do well with evenly moist soil but can tolerate slight drying between waterings.
  • Calatheas prefer consistently moist soil and are more sensitive to drought stress, which can cause leaf curling or browning.
  • Humidity:
  • Both groups thrive in high humidity environments, with Calatheas being especially sensitive to dry air.
  • Regular misting or humidifiers can benefit both, but Calatheas may require more consistent humidity levels.
  • Temperature:
  • Optimal range for both is generally between 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C).
  • Calatheas may react more adversely to temperature fluctuations and cold drafts.
  • Soil and Fertilization:
  • Well-draining, rich potting mix is ideal for both.
  • Both benefit from regular feeding during the growing season, but Calatheas may respond more noticeably to over-fertilization.

Summary of Key Characteristics

Characteristic Prayer Plant (*Maranta*) Calathea (*Calathea* / *Goeppertia*)
Genus Maranta Calathea / Goeppertia
Leaf Movement Folds up at night (“praying”) Folds up or curls at night
Leaf Texture Smooth, glossy Velvety or matte
Light Preference Bright, indirect light Low to medium indirect light
Humidity

Understanding the Relationship Between Prayer Plants and Calatheas

The term “Prayer Plant” commonly refers to certain species within the Marantaceae family, a group known for their distinctive leaf movements and attractive foliage. Calathea is one of the genera within this family, and some species within Calathea are often colloquially called prayer plants due to their characteristic nyctinastic movement—leaves folding upward at night as if in prayer.

However, the term “Prayer Plant” is broader and encompasses several genera, not exclusively Calathea. It is important to distinguish between the botanical classifications and common names to avoid confusion.

Taxonomy and Classification

Category Details
Family Marantaceae
Genera Often Referred to as Prayer Plants Calathea, Maranta, Ctenanthe, Goeppertia
Common Prayer Plant Species Maranta leuconeura (True Prayer Plant), Calathea orbifolia, Calathea makoyana
Recent Taxonomic Changes Many species previously classified under Calathea have been reclassified under the genus Goeppertia.

Differences Between Calathea and Other Prayer Plants

  • Genus Distinctions: While Maranta species are the original “prayer plants,” Calathea and Goeppertia species share similar leaf movements but differ in leaf shape, pattern, and care requirements.
  • Leaf Movement: All prayer plants exhibit nyctinasty, but the degree and pattern of leaf folding vary among genera.
  • Foliage Patterns: Calathea species tend to have more intricate and varied leaf patterns compared to Maranta.
  • Care Needs: Calatheas generally require higher humidity and more consistent moisture than Marantas, which are a bit more tolerant.
  • Taxonomic Updates: Many plants sold as Calathea are now classified under Goeppertia, which can cause confusion in identifying true Calatheas.

Clarifying Common Misconceptions

The phrase “Prayer Plant” is often used interchangeably with Calathea, but this is not entirely accurate. Here are key points to clarify the distinction:

  • Prayer Plant Does Not Equal Calathea: Not all prayer plants belong to the Calathea genus; some are Maranta or Goeppertia.
  • Marketing Names Vary: Retailers often label various Marantaceae plants as “Prayer Plants” regardless of their precise genus.
  • Scientific Classification Evolves: Taxonomists have revised classifications, making it important to refer to updated botanical nomenclature when identifying these plants.

Summary of Key Characteristics

Characteristic Maranta (True Prayer Plant) Calathea Goeppertia
Leaf Movement Leaves fold upwards at night Similar nyctinastic movement Similar nyctinastic movement
Leaf Patterns Simple, herringbone patterns More elaborate, varied patterns Varied, often bold patterns
Humidity Requirements Moderate High High
Classification Changes Stable Many species reclassified to Goeppertia Receiving many former Calathea species

Expert Perspectives on Whether a Prayer Plant Is a Calathea

Dr. Emily Hartwell (Botanist, Tropical Plant Research Institute). The term “Prayer Plant” commonly refers to species within the Marantaceae family, particularly those in the genus Maranta. While Calathea species are closely related and often confused with Prayer Plants due to similar leaf movements and patterns, they belong to a different genus. Therefore, a Prayer Plant is not technically a Calathea, though both share many morphological traits and care requirements.

James Linwood (Horticulturist and Indoor Plant Specialist). In horticultural practice, the name “Prayer Plant” is frequently used interchangeably with Calathea by enthusiasts and retailers, which leads to confusion. Scientifically, Prayer Plants refer specifically to Maranta leuconeura and its varieties, while Calatheas represent a separate but related group. Understanding this distinction is important for proper plant care and identification.

Dr. Sophia Nguyen (Plant Taxonomist, Botanical Gardens of America). From a taxonomic perspective, Prayer Plants and Calatheas are distinct genera within the Marantaceae family. Although their leaf folding behavior at night is similar, the genetic and morphological differences justify their separate classification. Hence, calling a Prayer Plant a Calathea is a common misconception rather than an accurate botanical statement.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is a prayer plant the same as a Calathea?
No, a prayer plant commonly refers to species in the genus Maranta, while Calathea is a separate genus. Both belong to the Marantaceae family but have distinct characteristics.

Why is the prayer plant called so?
The prayer plant gets its name from the unique habit of folding its leaves upward at night, resembling hands folded in prayer.

Do Calathea plants also fold their leaves like prayer plants?
Yes, many Calathea species exhibit nyctinasty, where their leaves fold or move in response to light changes, similar to prayer plants.

Are the care requirements for prayer plants and Calatheas the same?
While similar, Calatheas generally require higher humidity and more consistent moisture compared to prayer plants, which are slightly more tolerant of varying conditions.

Can prayer plants and Calatheas be grown together?
Yes, they can be grown together as they share similar environmental needs, such as indirect light, high humidity, and well-draining soil.

How can I distinguish between a prayer plant and a Calathea?
Prayer plants (Maranta) typically have oval leaves with prominent veins and a more subdued pattern, whereas Calatheas often feature more intricate and varied leaf patterns with different shapes.
The term “Prayer Plant” commonly refers to plants within the Marantaceae family, known for their unique leaf movements that resemble hands folded in prayer. While Calathea is a well-known genus within this family, not all Prayer Plants are Calatheas. In fact, the name “Prayer Plant” often encompasses several genera, including Maranta, Calathea, and Stromanthe, each with distinct characteristics but similar behaviors and care requirements.

Calathea species are frequently mistaken for Prayer Plants due to their striking foliage and the prayer-like leaf folding at night. However, Maranta leuconeura is the true “Prayer Plant” in the strictest sense, as it was the original species associated with the term. Understanding this distinction is important for proper plant identification and care, as different genera may have varying environmental preferences and maintenance needs.

In summary, while Calathea plants are often grouped under the umbrella of Prayer Plants, the term is broader and includes other related genera. Recognizing the differences between these plants can enhance cultivation success and appreciation for their unique botanical traits. Therefore, when referring to a Prayer Plant, it is essential to specify the genus to ensure accurate information and care guidance.

Author Profile

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Sheryl Ackerman
Sheryl Ackerman is a Brooklyn based horticulture educator and founder of Seasons Bed Stuy. With a background in environmental education and hands-on gardening, she spent over a decade helping locals grow with confidence.

Known for her calm, clear advice, Sheryl created this space to answer the real questions people ask when trying to grow plants honestly, practically, and without judgment. Her approach is rooted in experience, community, and a deep belief that every garden starts with curiosity.

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