Maranta

Maranta is a genus in the family Marantaceae, native to tropical Central and South America and the West Indies. About 40-50 species are currently recognized. They all have rhizomes and naturally form perennial clumps. The crowded oval, evergreen leaves are undivided with sheathing stalks. The leaves are flat by day and folded up as the day comes to an end, hence the common name "prayer plant". Maranta make excellent indoor foliage plant for pots or hanging baskets.