Low to prostrate branched herb. Leaves variously variegated. Flower cluster a narrow spike with 2 bracts that are generally much shorter than the flower stalks. Flowers white or violet.

Brazil

Varieties are distinguished according to their leaf patterns.

var. kerchoviana E. Morren Leaves grey-green above with a row of brownish blotches on each side of the midrib, purplish below, at least under the blotches.

var. massangeana E. Morren Leaves with pale or coloured veins on a dark velvety background. Purplish below, at least under the darker areas.

 

The leaves of M. bicolor are rather similar but the flower clusters have 4 or more bracts (not 2).

Source: Spencer, R. (2005). Marantaceae. In: Spencer, R.. Horticultural Flora of South-eastern Australia. Volume 5. Flowering plants. Monocotyledons. The identification of garden and cultivated plants. University of New South Wales Press.