Plant guide

Arrowroot.

Maranta arundinacea

Pronounced muh-RAN-tuh uh-run-din-AY-see-uh

Also known as Arrowroot, West Indian arrowroot, maranta

Arrowroot is a lovely tropical perennial known for its starchy rhizomes and lush foliage. It thrives in warm, humid environments that mimic its native rainforest floor. You will find it makes a charming addition to any indoor collection.

At a glance

Care level: Moderate
Plant type: Herbaceous perennial
Light: Partial shade to bright indirect light.
Indoor light: Bright indirect
Water: Every 3 to 7 days
Mature size: 3 to 5 feet
Growth rate: Medium

Care

Keep the soil consistently moist but never soggy to prevent root rot. Watch for browning leaf edges, which often signal that the air is too dry. It appreciates a spot with high humidity and protection from harsh, direct sun.

Watering: Water when the top inch of soil feels slightly dry to the touch.
Feeding: Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer once a month during the active growing season.
Pruning: Trim away any yellowing or damaged leaves to keep the plant looking tidy.
Repotting: Repot in the spring when the rhizomes become crowded in their current container.
Soil: Rich, well draining potting mix.
Soil pH: 5.5 to 6.5

Safety

Pets: This plant is generally considered non toxic to cats and dogs.

How to identify it

Broad, lance shaped green leaves
Prominent parallel leaf veins
Small white flowers on stalks
Fleshy, edible underground rhizomes

Science

Family: Marantaceae
Genus: Maranta
Order: Zingiberales
Class: Liliopsida

Taxonomy resolved against GBIF.

Also in

Plants for shade

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This page is a general guide. Pocket Botanist diagnoses problems from a photo of your actual plant, works out watering for your light and conditions, and reminds you when care is due.

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This guide was generated with AI and checked against GBIF taxonomy. It is general information, not horticultural or veterinary advice. Read about how we build these guides.