Ctenanthe

Ctenanthe are grown for their attractive, often variegated foliage. They are frost tender plants, requiring a minimum temperature of 13°C. The three species which make good houseplants are C. lubbersiana, C. oppenheimiana, and C. burle-marxii. Ctenanthe is not an easy care plant and can be quite frustrating for a novice grower. These plants are considered poisonous and should be kept away from pets and children.

plant Features

Partial shade
Occasional watering
Not Frost hardy
Moist and free draining

plant information

Common name

Ctenanthe

Latin name

Ctenanthe

type

evergreen perennial

family

Marantaceae

ph

5.0 - 7.0 Acid - Neutral

Light

Partial shade
Frost

Not Frost hardy

Soil

Moist and free draining
Water

Occasional watering

Plant & bloom calendar

Best time to plant

full grown dimensions

0.60 M 0.90 M

Ctenanthe

Planting as a houseplant

From Early Spring TO Early Spring

Use a good all purpose potting mix that drains well but still retains moisture. Place in bright indirect light. If there is insufficient light, new leaves appear solid green rather than patterned with attractive colors. If there is too much light, the colors in the leaves fade. They like warm consistent temperatures and will not tolerate temperatures below 13C. It is very important for these plants to keep the humidity high. To achieve this, place your Ctenanthe on a pebble tray filled with water. Be sure the plant is sitting on the pebbles and not in the water.

Propagation

From Early Spring TO Late Summer

Ctenanthe are easily propagated using the offsets that develop into bushy clumps. When planting offsets, it is important to use the same type of soil as was in the original plant. Stem cuttings may also be used. Keep the new plants warm and the soil moist until established.

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