Maranta leuconeura Lemon Lime, commonly known as the Lemon Lime Prayer Plant, is an electrifying tropical houseplant admired for its vivid neon veining and rhythmic leaf movements. A member of the Marantaceae family and native to the lush rainforests of Brazil, this variety is a more vibrant relative of the classic Red Vein Maranta, offering bold lime, chartreuse, and emerald tones that brighten any room.
Each oval leaf is a masterpiece of colour deep green along the edges, fading to lighter shades toward the midrib, and traced with bright yellow-green veins that glow against the darker background. The undersides are a soft pale green, revealed each evening when the leaves lift upward in their signature prayer motion. Compact and visually dynamic, Maranta Lemon Lime combines tropical vitality with easy-care appeal, making it perfect for shelves, desktops, or as a colourful accent in a plant display.
Maranta leuconeura Lemon Lime Care Guide
Light
Thrives in bright, indirect light, which enhances its vivid colours and variegation. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can fade or scorch the leaves. It tolerates lower light conditions but may grow slower and develop less intense colour in deep shade. East- or north-facing windows are ideal.
Watering
Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Water when the top 23 cm of soil feels slightly dry. Use filtered or rainwater to avoid fluoride and chlorine, which can cause browning edges. Reduce watering slightly in winter but never allow the soil to dry out completely.
Temperature and Humidity
Temperature: Prefers warmth between 1828 C. Protect from drafts, air conditioning, or sudden temperature drops below 15 C.
Humidity: High humidity (6080%) is key to maintaining bright colours and healthy leaf edges. Mist regularly, use a humidifier, or place the plant on a pebble tray for best results.
Soil and Potting
Use a light, well-draining but moisture-retentive mix compost combined with perlite and coco coir works well. This allows steady hydration while preventing compaction. Repot every 12 years in spring to refresh the mix and support new growth.
Feeding
Feed every 46 weeks during spring and summer with a diluted, balanced liquid fertiliser. Avoid over-fertilising, as Marantas are sensitive to salt build-up, which can damage their roots. Suspend feeding in autumn and winter.
Pruning and Maintenance
Trim away older or discoloured leaves at the base to encourage fresh, healthy growth. Wipe the leaves occasionally with a soft, damp cloth to remove dust and highlight their luminous veins. Rotate the plant regularly for even light exposure and symmetrical growth.
Growth and Maturity
A moderately fast grower, Maranta Lemon Lime typically reaches 3040 cm in height and spread. It forms a dense clump of trailing foliage that can cascade beautifully from shelves or hanging planters. In perfect conditions, it may produce small, delicate white or purple flowers on slender stems.
Common Issues
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Brown tips: Low humidity or tap water sensitivity.
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Yellow leaves: Overwatering or poor drainage.
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Curling leaves: Underwatering or cold air exposure.
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Pests: Occasionally susceptible to spider mites or thrips treat with neem oil and increase humidity.
Background and Benefits
Native to tropical Brazil, Maranta leuconeura species are celebrated for their rhythmic leaf movements, which follow the natural light cycle a behaviour known as nyctinasty. The Lemon Lime cultivar stands out for its neon-bright foliage and resilient, easy-going nature.
In interiors, its cherished for its non-toxic properties, making it safe for homes with pets and children. Symbolically, Marantas represent gratitude, calm, and renewal making Lemon Lime a perfect addition to tranquil, biophilic spaces.
Quick Care Summary
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Light: Bright, indirect light; avoid direct sun
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Water: Keep soil evenly moist; use filtered or rainwater
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Temperature: 1828 C; avoid below 15 C
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Humidity: High (6080%)
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Soil: Moisture-retentive, well-draining mix compost, perlite, coco coir
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Feed: Every 46 weeks in spring/summer
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Growth: 3040 cm; green leaves with lime and chartreuse veining
Toxicity note: Non-toxic to humans and pets.
Styling Tip
Showcase Maranta Lemon Lime in a white, terracotta, or pastel ceramic pot to emphasise its neon veining. It thrives as a tabletop plant, shelf accent, or hanging display where its leaves can trail freely. Pair it with darker tropicals such as Philodendron Micans or Calathea orbifolia for rich contrast, or combine it with other Marantas for a cohesive Prayer Plant collection. Its bright, energising tones add a fresh, modern touch to interiors while maintaining the lush softness of the tropics.
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