Maranta arundinacea
TAXONOMY
FamilyMarantaceae
GenusMaranta
Zone10
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Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Maranta arundinacea, commonly known as arrowroot, is a perennial herb native to the tropical regions of South America. It is known for its edible rhizomes, which are used to produce arrowroot starch. The plant has broad, lance-shaped leaves and can grow up to 1 meter in height. It does not have a dormancy period and thrives in warm, humid environments.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Arrowroot
Dictame
Phrynium Variegatum
Rouroute
West Indian Arrowroot
Herbe aux flches
Maranta
Maranta arundinacea f. sylvestris
Maranta arundinacea var. arundinacea
Maranta arundinacea var. indica
Maranta arundinacea var. variegata
Maranta indica
Maranta ramosissima
Maranta silvatica
Maranta sylvatica
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterWet
SoilLoamy
LightIndirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature22° C
Humidity70%
GDD4,050
pH5.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Arrowroot plants prefer bright, indirect light and should be kept in a warm, humid environment. They require regular watering to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Moderate temperatures are ideal for their growth. Ensure the plant is placed in a location with good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.Harvest
Maranta arundinacea, commonly known as arrowroot, is typically harvested 10-12 months after planting when the leaves start to yellow and wither. The rhizomes are carefully dug out to avoid damage. After harvesting, the rhizomes are washed, peeled, and processed to extract the starch. It is important to handle the rhizomes gently to prevent bruising, which can affect the quality of the starch.Soil
Arrowroot plants thrive in well-draining loamy soil that retains moisture without becoming waterlogged. A mix of peat, perlite, and potting soil works well. Ensure the soil is rich in organic matter to support the plant's nutrient needs.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10. Fertilize the plant every 4-6 weeks during the growing season to support healthy growth. Reduce fertilization during the winter months when the plant's growth slows down.Repotting
Repot arrowroot plants every 1-2 years or when they outgrow their current container. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one and ensure it has good drainage. Gently remove the plant from its old pot, shake off excess soil, and place it in the new pot with fresh soil.Propagation
Arrowroot can be propagated through division. The best time to propagate is during the spring. Carefully divide the rhizomes, ensuring each section has at least one growing point. Plant the divisions in separate pots with fresh soil and water them well.Pruning
Pruning is necessary to remove dead or yellowing leaves and to maintain the plant's shape. Prune as needed throughout the year using clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears. Regular pruning encourages healthy growth and prevents the plant from becoming leggy.Toxicity
Maranta arundinacea is non-toxic to pets and humans. It is safe to have around children and animals, making it a good choice for households with pets.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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