Prayer plants (Maranta leuconeura) are cherished houseplants, known for their striking foliage and unique daily leaf movements. They fold their leaves upwards at night, resembling hands in prayer, and unfurl them with the morning light. As you care for these plants, you might notice unusual structures on their roots, leading to questions about what these “bulbs” truly are. Understanding these underground components is important for optimal care.
Understanding Prayer Plant Root Structures
Prayer plants do not possess true bulbs like tulips or daffodils. Instead, they develop specialized underground stems known as rhizomes or tubers. These structures store water and nutrients, enabling the plant to endure periods of stress or reduced moisture. Rhizomes appear as fleshy, knotty growths, sometimes resembling small potatoes or ginger roots, from which new shoots and roots emerge.
These storage organs are distinct from typical fibrous roots, which primarily absorb water and nutrients directly from the soil. Rhizomes or tubers allow prayer plants to survive environmental fluctuations, drawing upon stored resources when conditions are less favorable. This adaptation stems from their native tropical Brazilian forest habitat, where they experience varying moisture levels.
Care Practices for Healthy Roots
Proper care for prayer plant roots involves preventing waterlogged conditions and ensuring consistent moisture. These plants thrive in well-draining, airy potting mixes allowing good airflow around the rhizomes. A suitable blend includes peat moss or coco coir for moisture retention, combined with perlite or coarse sand to enhance drainage and aeration.
Watering should allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. However, do not let the soil become completely dry for extended periods, as this can stress the plant. When repotting, select a pot only slightly larger than the current root ball; too much excess soil retains excessive moisture and can lead to issues. Prayer plants also appreciate a slightly shallower, wider pot over a deep, narrow one, given their shallow root system.
Propagating Prayer Plants Through Root Division
The rhizomatous root structure makes root division an effective method for propagating prayer plants. This process is best performed when repotting a mature plant, in early spring as it enters its active growing phase. Gently remove the plant from its pot and shake away excess soil to expose the root ball.
Identify natural divisions or clumps, ensuring each section has a healthy portion of rhizome or tuber, along with stems and leaves. Tease these sections apart with your hands or, if necessary, use a clean, sharp knife to separate them. Each new division can be potted individually in fresh, well-draining potting mix, providing new plants for your collection or to share.
Troubleshooting Root-Related Problems
Prayer plants, like many houseplants, can experience root issues, primarily due to improper watering. Overwatering commonly causes root rot, making roots soft, mushy, and discolored (often black or brown). Above-ground symptoms include yellowing or wilting leaves, stunted growth, and sometimes a foul odor from the soil. Addressing root rot involves removing the plant, trimming affected roots with sterilized shears, and repotting into fresh, well-draining soil.
Conversely, underwatering can also lead to problems, causing rhizomes to shrivel as the plant depletes stored water reserves. Signs of underwatering include crispy, curling leaves and overall drooping, indicating the plant is not receiving enough moisture. Adjusting watering frequency to ensure consistent moisture, without saturation, is important for maintaining healthy prayer plant roots and overall vitality.