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Plant Profiles / Prayer plant
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Prayer plant
Maranta leuconeura · Maranta, red prayer plant
A compact houseplant with patterned leaves featuring red veins and dark blotches. The leaves fold upward at night like praying hands.
Bright indirectLight
WeeklyWater
ModerateCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Bright indirect
ShadeFull sun
Medium, indirect light.
Water
Weekly
DryWet
Keep lightly moist; use filtered water.
Humidity
High
LowHigh
Needs humidity.
Temperature
18–27°C (65–80°F)
CoolWarm
Keep above 15°C (59°F).
Growth
Moderate, spreading
SlowFast
Grows 20–30 cm tall.
Soil
Moisture-retentive
LeanRich
Potting mix with perlite.
Fertiliser
Monthly
RarelyOften
Diluted liquid fertiliser.
Pet safety
Non-toxic
SafeToxic
Non-toxic to cats and dogs.
About this plant
Prayer plants come from Brazilian rainforests. Their leaves move daily in a rhythm called nyctinasty. They're related to calatheas and like similar care: humidity, indirect light and soft water.
Best spots
Bathrooms, shelves, hanging pots and bright bedrooms.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Maranta leuconeura |
| Family | Marantaceae |
| Origin | Brazil |
| Plant type | Evergreen perennial |
| Mature size | 20–30 cm |
| Growth rate | Moderate |
| Foliage | Patterned, red-veined leaves |
| Flowers | Small white flowers |
| Toxicity | Non-toxic to pets |
| Propagation | Division or cuttings |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Active growth
Fertilise
Water less
Active growthFertiliseWater less
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Crispy edges | Low humidity or tap water. |
| Curling leaves | Underwatering. |
| Faded leaves | Too much light. |
| Yellow leaves | Overwatering. |
| Spider mites | Raise humidity. |
Common questions
Why do the leaves move?
It's a natural daily rhythm.
Is it pet safe?
Yes.
Is it a calathea?
A close relative.
Can it hang?
Yes, it trails nicely.
