Maranta leuconeura ‘Cat Mustache’: The Playful Prayer Plant

If you’re searching for a plant that’s both playful and visually striking, the Maranta leuconeura ‘Cat Mustache’ is a must-have. Named for its charming leaf markings that resemble tiny cat whiskers, this prayer plant is a compact and vibrant addition to any indoor space. Its unique foliage and fascinating habit of folding leaves at night make it as entertaining as it is beautiful.

Pet and Reptile Safe

The Maranta ‘Cat Mustache’ is completely non-toxic, making it safe for households with cats, dogs, or small reptiles. You can enjoy its unique patterns without worrying about curious pets nibbling on the leaves. This makes it a perfect choice for both traditional indoor spaces and terrariums.

Indoor Plant Benefits

This prayer plant thrives indoors in bright, indirect light, though it tolerates medium light as well. Its compact size and low-growing habit make it ideal for desks, shelves, or tabletops. Beyond its decorative appeal, it helps increase humidity slightly in its immediate surroundings, contributing to a healthier indoor environment.

Terrarium and Vivarium Friendly

Thanks to its love of humidity and compact growth, the Cat Mustache Maranta is an excellent choice for terrariums and vivariums. Its unique leaf markings and vibrant green hues bring texture and visual interest to bioactive setups. Group it with mosses, ferns, or other pet-safe tropical plants for a lush mini-ecosystem.

Air-Purifying Qualities

While not a heavy-duty air purifier, Maranta plants do contribute to cleaner indoor air and increased humidity. Their dense, low foliage can help filter dust and minor pollutants while creating a calming, natural aesthetic.

Maranta leuconeura ‘Cat Mustache’ Care Guide

Light

• Prefers bright, indirect light.

• Can tolerate medium light, but too little light may reduce the vibrancy of the leaf markings.

• Avoid direct sun, which can scorch leaves.

Watering

• Keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged.

• Allow the top 1–2 cm to dry slightly between waterings.

• Sensitive to overwatering, which can cause root rot.

Temperature & Humidity

• Thrives in 18–27°C.

• Enjoys moderate to high humidity — misting or grouping with other plants can help.

• Avoid cold drafts or prolonged dry conditions.

🪴Soil

• Use a well-draining, peat-based potting mix.

• A mix with added perlite ensures proper drainage and prevents soggy soil.

Fertiliser

• Feed lightly during spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertiliser.

• Reduce feeding in winter when growth slows.

Pruning & Propagation

• Remove yellow or damaged leaves to keep the plant tidy.

• Propagate via stem cuttings in soil or water.

Final Thoughts

The Maranta leuconeura ‘Cat Mustache’ is a playful, compact, and pet- and reptile-safe plant that brightens any indoor space or terrarium with its whimsical markings and unique leaf-folding habit. Perfect for desks, shelves, or terrariums, it’s easy to care for while offering a little daily entertainment as it moves with the light.