The plant spreads itself horizontally, carpeting an entire small area of forest floor, sending roots into the substrate at each leaf node.

Maranta, in-addition to fellow “prayer-plant” genera (like Calathea, Ctenanthe, Goeppertia and Stromanthe), is closely related to such groups as Alpinia, Ensete, Canna, Curcuma, Heliconia, Musa and Zingiber.

The undersides of the leaves are variable, ranging from a light green, common in M. leuconeura var.

Maranta leuconeura is a well-known houseplant in temperate regions, requiring a minimum temperature of 15 °C (59 °F).

During the growing season, spring and summer, Maranta houseplants require moist soil and fertilization every month.

[6] In warmer climates, at USDA Zones 10b-11,[9] it can be grown as groundcover in moist, shady areas.

[4] The following naturally occurring varieties (distinguishable from artificially selected cultivars) have gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit:-[11] M. leuconeura can be grown in planters, hanging baskets, mass planting, and as an edging plant.

[14] Maranta usually experiences minimal insect pest pressure, however, spider mites and mealybugs can be of significant concern.