The Maranta leuconeura, commonly known as the prayer plant. The prayer plant is a striking houseplant known for its beautiful foliage. During the day, the leaves lie flat, but in the evening, they fold upward, resembling hands in prayer. This unique behavior is a response to light and helps the plant conserve moisture and energy. Native to the tropical rainforests of Brazil, this plant has become a popular choice for indoor gardening enthusiasts due to its vibrant colors, unique patterns, and relatively easy care requirements.
The prayer plant is recognizable by its large, oval leaves, which can grow up to 5 inches long. The leaves are usually dark green with a light green or cream-colored midrib, often displaying a herringbone pattern of red veins or patches of darker green, giving it a mesmerizing appearance. The underside of the leaves is often a rich reddish-purple, adding to the plant’s visual appeal. One of the most fascinating aspects of the prayer plant is its nyctinasty—the daily rhythmic movement of its leaves.
| Common Name | Prayer plant |
| Botanical Name | Maranta leuconeura |
| Family | Marantaceae |
| Plant Type | Herbaceous, perennial |
| Mature Size | 6–12 in. tall, 6–12 in. wide |
| Sun Exposure | Partial, shade |
| Soil Type | Moist but well-drained |
| Soil pH | Neutral, acidic |
| Bloom Time | Spring |
| Flower Color | White |
| Hardiness Zones | 11-12 (USDA) |
| Native Area | South America |
Types of Prayer Plant
Here’s a brief overview of popular prayer plant (Maranta leuconeura) varieties:
- ‘Kerchoveana’ (Green Prayer Plant): light green leaves with darker green patches, resembling rabbit tracks.
- ‘Erythroneura’ (Red-Veined Prayer Plant): dark green leaves with bold red veins in a herringbone pattern, burgundy undersides.
- ‘Leuconeura’ (Black Prayer Plant): deep green, almost black leaves with silver veins.
- ‘Massangeana’ (Silver Feather Prayer Plant): dark green leaves with silver or white central veins.
- ‘Kim’: smaller leaves with lime-colored margins and subtle patterns.
- ‘Lemon Lime’: Vibrant lime green leaves with darker veins and a bright lemon midrib.
- ‘Fascinator’ (Tricolor): tricolored leaves with dark green, red veins, light green patches, and purple undersides.
- ‘Marisela’: Light green leaves with a soft, feather-like, darker green pattern.
- ‘Silver Band’: leaves with a striking silver band down the center, glossy finish.
Each variety will add unique beauty to your indoor garden!
Prayer Plant Care
Growing Conditions
To keep your prayer plant healthy and vibrant, it’s essential to replicate the conditions it would experience in its natural habitat. Here’s what you need to know:
Light Requirements
The prayer plant thrives in bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch its leaves, so it’s best to place it in a spot where it will receive filtered light, such as near a north- or east-facing window. If there is not enough natural light, fluorescent lights can be used to complement it.
Temperature
Maranta leuconeura prefers a warm environment with temperatures ranging between 65°F and 75°F (18°C to 24°C). It’s sensitive to cold drafts and should be kept away from windows or doors that might expose it to chilly air.
Humidity
Being a tropical plant, the prayer plant loves high humidity. Aim for a humidity level of around 60% or higher. You can increase humidity by misting the plant regularly, placing a humidifier nearby, or setting the pot on a tray filled with water and pebbles (ensuring the pot isn’t sitting directly in the water).
Soil
Prayer plants demand well-drained soil that keeps moisture without becoming too wet. A peat-based potting mix combined with perlite or sand works well. The soil should be slightly acidic to neutral, with a pH between 5.5 and 6.0.
Watering
Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. When the top inch of soil seems completely dry to the touch, water the plant. During the growing season (spring and summer), you may need to water more regularly, whereas the dormant season (autumn and winter) requires less watering. Always use room-temperature water and avoid using water with high mineral content, as this can cause leaf browning.
Care Tips
Fertilizing
Feed your prayer plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing season. Since the plant’s growth slows down in the winter, fertilizer should be avoided during that time.
Pruning
Regular pruning is not necessary for the prayer plant, but you can trim back any leggy growth to encourage a fuller, bushier appearance. Remove any yellow or broken leaves to keep the plant healthy.
Repotting
Repot the prayer plant every 2 to 3 years or when it becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one and ensure it has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
Pest and Disease Management:
Prayer Plants are generally resistant to pests, but they can occasionally be affected by spider mites, aphids, or mealybugs. Inspect the plant regularly, and treat any infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to root rot, so be mindful of the plant’s watering needs.
Common Issues and Solutions
1. Leaf curling or browning:
If the leaves start to curl or turn brown at the edges, it could be a sign of low humidity or underwatering. Increase humidity and ensure consistent watering.
2. Yellowing Leaves:
Yellow leaves may indicate overwatering or poor drainage. Allow the soil to dry somewhat between waterings, and make sure the pot has good drainage.
3. Faded Colors:
If the leaves lose their vibrant color, the plant may not be receiving enough light. Shift it somewhere brighter, but out of direct sunlight.
Propagation
Prayer plants can be easily propagated through division or stem cuttings. While the plant is actively growing, in the spring or summer is the ideal time to propagate.
1. Division:
When repotting, gently separate the plant into smaller sections, each with its own root system. Plant the divisions in individual pots filled with brand-new soil.
2. Stem cuttings:
Take a cut just below a node and remove the bottom leaves. The cutting can be submerged in water or moist soil. If rooting in water, transplant it into soil once roots have developed.
The Maranta leuconeura is a captivating and relatively low-maintenance houseplant that can add a touch of the tropics to your home. By providing the right light, temperature, humidity, and care, you can enjoy its stunning foliage and the mesmerizing movement of its leaves for years to come.