Calathea and Ctenanthe are popular houseplants, admired for their vibrant, patterned foliage. Despite distinct classifications, these two genera are often mistaken due to similar appearances and shared family. Both are known as “prayer plants” for their unique leaf movements. This article clarifies the differences between Ctenanthe and Calathea, highlighting their unique characteristics and care.
Shared Characteristics
Ctenanthe and Calathea both belong to the Marantaceae family, often called the “prayer plant family” or “arrowroot family.” This shared botanical lineage accounts for many common traits. A notable shared characteristic is nyctinasty, a circadian rhythm-based movement where their leaves fold upwards at night, resembling hands in prayer, and then flatten out again during the day. Specialized cells at the base of their leaves, called pulvini, control this movement.
Both genera are native to the tropical forests of Central and South America, particularly Brazil. They thrive in environments mimicking their natural habitat, preferring high humidity, warm temperatures, and indirect light. They also require well-draining soil that remains consistently moist. These shared environmental preferences contribute to similar care routines as houseplants.
Key Distinguishing Features
While Ctenanthe and Calathea share many similarities, distinct features allow for their identification. A primary difference lies in their growth habit and stem structure. Calathea plants typically grow as clumps, with new leaves emerging directly from the base or from rhizomes beneath the soil. In contrast, Ctenanthe often develops above-ground, branching stalks, giving them a more upright, bushier, or taller appearance. Some Ctenanthe species can even have a slightly vining or trailing habit.
Leaf characteristics also provide important clues. Calathea leaves come in a wide range of shapes, from long and lance-shaped to large and rounded, renowned for intricate, bold patterns including stripes, spots, and complex designs. Many Calathea varieties also feature vibrant purple or reddish undersides. Ctenanthe leaves, while ornamental, tend to have more consistently oblong or lance-shaped foliage and often exhibit more subtle, linear stripes or blotches, with patterns generally appearing softer. Some Ctenanthe species, like Ctenanthe setosa, may also have slightly bristly or hairy leaf stems.
Comparative Care Requirements
Despite common needs stemming from their shared tropical origins, subtle differences exist in Ctenanthe and Calathea care requirements. Both plants prefer bright, indirect light, but Calathea is more sensitive to excessive light, which can cause vibrant colors to fade or leaves to scorch. Ctenanthe, while also preferring indirect light, is often considered more adaptable and can tolerate slightly lower light.
Regarding watering, Calathea plants prefer consistently moist soil and are sensitive to drying out, often reacting with crispy leaf edges if underwatered. They are also sensitive to chemicals in tap water, making filtered or distilled water beneficial. Ctenanthe is generally more forgiving if the soil dries out slightly between waterings. Some species, like Ctenanthe lubbersiana, have a thicker cutin layer on their leaves, offering more tolerance to lower humidity. While both thrive in high humidity, Calathea typically demands higher humidity levels, ideally around 60%, whereas average household humidity can sometimes suffice for Ctenanthe.
Popular Varieties and Identification Tips
Several popular varieties for both Ctenanthe and Calathea showcase their unique features.
For Ctenanthe, common varieties include:
Ctenanthe setosa, or ‘Grey Star,’ recognized for silver-green leaves with dark veins and sometimes purple undersides.
Ctenanthe burle-marxii, known as the ‘Fishbone Prayer Plant,’ features elongated, lance-shaped leaves with distinct dark green and silver stripes resembling a fishbone pattern.
Ctenanthe lubbersiana, or ‘Golden Mosaic,’ displays oblong leaves variegated with splashes of creamy yellow.
Observing the more upright, branching stems and typically oblong leaf shape helps identify these Ctenanthe types.
Calathea offers a wide array of striking patterns:
Calathea orbifolia stands out with large, rounded leaves adorned with symmetrical light green to silver-grey vertical stripes.
Calathea makoyana, or ‘Peacock Plant,’ has elaborate feathered markings on egg-shaped leaves, with green patterns on top and purple undersides.
Calathea lancifolia, the ‘Rattlesnake Plant,’ is identifiable by long, wavy leaves with dark green spots resembling a snake’s skin and maroon undersides.
The diverse, intricate patterns and often broader, more varied leaf shapes are indicative of Calathea.