No tracking. No cookies. No ads. Privacy-first
Medium to bright indirect light (3-6 feet from a south or west window, or right next to an east window. Under a grow light, 6-10 inches away works well). direct sun (right in the window where sun actually hits the leaves. A strong grow light 4-6 inches away can substitute) fades the leaves and causes scorch. Tolerates lower light better than showier Calathea species, making it a good choice for spaces that do not get a lot of natural light.Light
Keep the soil uniformly moist but well-drained; never waterlogged. Use filtered, distilled, or rainwater - Calatheas are sensitive to chlorine and fluoride in tap water, which causes brown leaf tips. Avoid getting water on the leaves.Water
Requires moderate to high humidity (60-80%. Group your plants together, set them on a pebble tray with water, or run a humidifier nearby). Low humidity causes leaves to roll or develop brown edges. A pebble tray with water, regular misting (note: misting does not actually raise humidity meaningfully. A pebble tray or humidifier is more effective), or a humidifier will keep this plant looking its best.Humidity
65-75°F (18-24°C). Prefers temperatures above 60°F (15°C). Sensitive to cold drafts and sudden temperature swings.Temperature
moderateDifficulty
Calathea micans plant

Miniature Maranta

Calathea micans

Moderate

Calathea micans is the understated member of a family known for drama, and it is better for it. The leaves are narrow, ovate, and plain green without the elaborate markings of its Calathea cousins, but get close and you will discover the real appeal: the foliage is sumptuously soft and velvety to the touch, with smooth, silky undersides. It is compact enough for a small shelf or terrarium, and shares the family's charming habit of folding its leaves upward each night like a plant getting ready for bed.

Care Guide

How to grow Miniature Maranta

Light

Medium to bright indirect light

Water

Keep the soil uniformly moist

Humidity

60-80%

Temperature

65-75°F

Soil

Well-draining, moisture-retentive mix.

Propagation

Divide at the rhizome -

Common Problems

No serious disease or pest

Did You Know

Fun Facts

The specific epithet micans is Latin for 'sparkling,' 'shining,' or 'glowing' — a poetic nod to the subtle shimmer of the plant's velvety leaves in light, even though they lack the bold patterning of showier Calathea relatives.

Pet Safety

Pet safe

Non-toxic to cats, dogs, and humans. Safe for pets and children.

Copied to clipboard