Also known as Common Arrowroot · Krarus · Maranta
Arrowroot (Maranta arundinacea) is a tropical perennial with striking foliage, prized for its edible starch and ornamental appeal in warm climates.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, indirect light.
50% intensity
Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch leaves.
Keep soil consistently moist.
75% intensity
Avoid waterlogged conditions.
Rich, well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral
50% intensity
Average room temperatures.
50% intensity
Keep between 18-24°C. Avoid cold drafts.
Feed during growing season.
50% intensity
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during the growing season. Water more frequently in warmer months and reduce watering in cooler periods.
Allow the top inch of soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent root rot. Ensure good drainage.
Prune to remove any yellowed, brown, or damaged leaves as they appear. You can also trim back leggy growth to encourage a bushier plant.
Pruning is generally done to maintain shape and health rather than for significant size reduction.
Propagate by dividing the rhizomes during repotting in spring. Each division should have at least one eye or growth bud.
Plant the divisions in well-draining potting mix and keep them consistently moist and warm until new growth emerges.
Repot every 2-3 years in the spring, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one.
Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a blend for houseplants with added perlite or sand.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Arrowroot (Maranta arundinacea)
Where Arrowroot (Maranta arundinacea) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Zingiberales |
| Family | Marantaceae |
| Genus | Maranta |
| Species | Maranta arundinacea |
Similar in genus Maranta
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
