Calathea vs Prayer Plant
Calathea orbifolia vs Maranta leuconeura
Both Marantaceae family, both informally called "Prayer Plant", constantly mistaken for each other.
Calathea Orbifolia and Maranta leuconeura are both members of the Marantaceae family and both commonly called "prayer plants" because their leaves fold upward at night, like hands in prayer. They look superficially similar — large patterned leaves with bold venation — and get confused at every garden centre. The differences come down to leaf shape (round silvery-striped vs oval red-veined herringbone), size (Calathea grows twice as wide), and which species is the true Maranta — only the smaller one with red veins.
Quick verdict
| Use case | Winner |
|---|---|
| For pet households | Either works |
| For first-time plant owners | Either works |
| For low-light rooms | Either works |
| For drought / forgetful watering | Neither — try a different plant |
| For small spaces | Prayer Plant |
Side-by-side details
| Trait | Calathea | Prayer Plant |
|---|---|---|
| Light | Medium indirect | Medium indirect |
| Water frequency | Every 5–7 days | Every 5–7 days |
| Humidity needs | 60–80% | 60–80% |
| Drought-tolerant | No | No |
| Difficulty | Challenging | Challenging |
| Mature height | 60 cm | 30 cm |
| Growth pattern | rosette | trailing |
| Pet safety | Pet-safe | Pet-safe |
Pet safety side-by-side
Calathea
Pet-safe
Non-toxic to both cats and dogs per the ASPCA. Safe to grow with pets in the room.
Prayer Plant
Pet-safe
Non-toxic to both cats and dogs per the ASPCA. Safe to grow with pets in the room.
Our take
Pick Maranta leuconeura for compact 30cm spaces and the dramatic red-veined herringbone foliage; pick Calathea Orbifolia for a larger statement plant with silver zebra-striped round leaves. Both demand 60-80% humidity — neither tolerates dry indoor air without a humidifier or terrarium.
Frequently asked questions
Which is easier to care for, Calathea or Prayer Plant?
Calathea (challenging) and Prayer Plant (challenging) are similar in difficulty.
Is Calathea or Prayer Plant safer around cats and dogs?
Both are pet-safe. Calathea: Pet-safe. Prayer Plant: Pet-safe. Pet safety data is sourced from the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center.
Can Calathea or Prayer Plant handle low light?
Both handle low light. Calathea prefers medium indirect. Prayer Plant prefers medium indirect.
How often should I water Calathea compared to Prayer Plant?
Calathea: every 5-7 days. Prayer Plant: every 5-7 days. Neither is drought-tolerant — both need consistent watering.