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Complete guide to maranta leuconeura 'Kerchoveana' care

Incredibly patterned leaves that move - see it for yourself.

A close-up detail photo of a maranta leuconeura 'Kerchoveana' plant on a white studio background

The maranta leuconeura 'Kerchoveana', which is a bit of a mouthful so we call her Louise, is a beautiful and popular plant that’s loved for its striking foliage. This plant is native to the tropical regions of Brazil. In this article, we’ll cover the basics of caring for a maranta leuconeura 'Kerchoveana', from watering and light requirements to tips for propagating and spotting common problems.

  • Like most patterned plants, this one loves lots of light but ideally not direct sun, which will make their colours fade. A little bit of shade is ok.
  • Keep the soil on the drier side. Wait for the soil to be dry to a depth of at least two inches before watering again.
  • Like other prayer plants, a maranta leuconeura enjoys a humid environment. A naturally steamy bathroom or kitchen is great, or you can mist it regularly.

About maranta leuconeura ‘Kerchoveana’

Maranta leuconeura is part of a group of plants known as prayer plants. They get their name from the fact that their leaves fold up at night, like praying hands, then unfold in the day, to absorb the day’s light. All these plants have vivid patterns on their leaves and maranta leuconeura is one of the most dazzling. The lime green leaves are spotted with dark green.

A maranta leuconeura ‘Kerchoveana’ in a green fractured decorative pot on a shelf in a bathroom

How much light does my maranta leuconeura 'Kerchoveana' need?

The maranta leuconeura 'Kerchoveana' prefers bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, so it's best to place the plant near a window that gets filtered sunlight or in a well-lit room. If the leaves begin to curl or turn yellow, this may be a sign that the plant is receiving too much sunlight.

How often should I water my maranta leuconeura 'Kerchoveana'?

Your maranta leuconeura 'Kerchoveana' prefers to be kept evenly moist, but not overly wet. Water the plant when the top two inches of soil are dry to the touch, but avoid letting the soil completely dry out. When watering, pour water slowly and evenly over the soil until it begins to drain from the bottom of the pot. Avoid getting water on the leaves, as this can lead to fungal problems. During the winter months, you can reduce watering slightly to prevent overwatering.

Does my maranta leuconeura 'Kerchoveana' need a humid environment?

The maranta leuconeura 'Kerchoveana' thrives in high humidity, making it a perfect plant for a bathroom or kitchen. You can also increase humidity by placing a tray of water near the plant or using a humidifier. If the air is too dry, the leaves may become brown and crispy at the tips.

What’s the best temperature for my maranta leuconeura 'Kerchoveana'?

Your maranta leuconeura 'Kerchoveana' prefers temperatures between 18°C to 27°C. Avoid placing the plant near draughts or in areas that are too cold, as this can cause the leaves to curl and become damaged.

Should I fertilise my maranta leuconeura 'Kerchoveana'?

During the growing season, which is spring and summer, fertilise the plant every two weeks with a balanced houseplant fertiliser. During the winter months, you can reduce fertilisation to around once a month.

Can I propagate my maranta leuconeura 'Kerchoveana'?

Propagation of the maranta leuconeura 'Kerchoveana' can be done through division or stem cuttings. To propagate through division, gently remove the plant from its pot and separate the roots into smaller sections. Replant each section in its own pot with fresh potting soil. To propagate through stem cuttings, take a cutting from the plant's stem and place it in a container filled with moist potting soil. Keep the soil moist and in bright, indirect light until the cutting takes root.

Common maranta leuconeura 'Kerchoveana' problems

The maranta leuconeura 'Kerchoveana' is generally a hardy plant, but it can be prone to a few common issues. If the leaves begin to curl or turn yellow, this may be a sign of overwatering or underwatering. Adjust your watering schedule accordingly. Brown, crispy leaf tips may be a sign of low humidity. Increase humidity by placing a tray of water near the plant or using a humidifier. If the leaves begin to drop or the plant becomes leggy, this may be a sign that the plant is not receiving enough light. Trying moving the plant to a brighter spot.

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