Ctenanthe pilosa 'Golden Mosaic'

Ctenanthe pilosa (syn. marantifolia ) 'Golden Mosaic' has beautifully and extensively variegated, light yellow leaves. It grows from an underground rhizome, which serves as a water and nutrient reservoir. Ctenanthe pilosa is a member of the arrowroot family (Marantaceae) and originates from the east coast of South America, specifically Brazil, around the area of ​​São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and especially the Serra da Bocaina National Park. There, it grows in wooded areas near the coast. The forests in this region are subtropical. It is warm but not humid year-round like a rainforest. During the dry season, the climate is more Mediterranean.

Some sources consider Ctenanthe pilosa a synonym of Ctenanthe marantifolia . According to the IAPT rules, Ctenanthe marantifolia would be the correct name. However, not all databases agree, which is why both names are currently treated as equivalent synonyms. The name C. pilosa is much more widespread and well-known, which is why we sell the plants under this name.



Arrowroot plants are also called "prayer plants" in English because of the way their leaves move; at night, they fold them upwards like hands in prayer. Generally, the leaves of Marantaceae move relatively quickly and frequently, so these movements (which almost all plants exhibit) are much more noticeable in Marantaceae. This makes them appear truly alive!