Species prayer plant
Green leaves with lime-green center, gray stems, pink midrib and veins,

prayer plant

Maranta leuconeura var. erythroneura

Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura var. erythroneura) is a tropical evergreen species native to Brazil. It is particularly known for its striking foliage, as its pointed, oval-shaped leaves display reddish-green stripes and veins. When placed in indirect sunlight, the leaves of the prayer plant will fold up like a prayer, hence its evocative name. The prayer plant is an easy and attractive houseplant, tolerating low light and making a great way to bring some unique color and texture to the home or office. With its manageable size and interesting leaf movements, the prayer plant is sure to be a conversation starter.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Stem Propagation,Leaf Cutting,Air Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

11 - 12

Flowers:

White Flowers

Sun:

part sun/part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Tropical:

Yes

Indoors:

Yes

Care Level:

Moderate

watering

Prayer plants should be watered every 1-2 weeks. Water should be applied lightly, to a point where the soil is moist, but not soggy. It is important to allow the top layer of soil to dry out before watering, as excess moisture can eventually cause root rot. During the growing season, it is best to water your prayer plant when the top 1-2 inches of the soil are dry. When winter approaches, the frequency of watering can be tapered down gradually. The key is to give the prayer plant just enough water to prevent it from wilting and drying out completely.

sunlight

Prayer plants need bright indirect or filtered light and grow best in medium light. As a rule, they should receive 8–12 hours of bright indirect or filtered sunlight each day, but should be kept out of direct sunlight, which can cause leaf scorch and sunburn. During the winter months, provide a few hours of direct sunlight each day if possible. Too little light can cause a lower rate of growth, and the plant may display some yellowish leaves and lose its patterned leaves.

pruning

Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura var. erythroneura) should be pruned lightly and regularly, any time from early spring to late summer. Cut off yellowed or browned leaves, but be very careful not to cut too much. Keep an eye out for stems with several leaves, and lightly prune those back to allow for fuller, bushier growth. When you prune, you should use sharp, clean pruning shears, and don't forget to sanitize them with rubbing alcohol after you finish pruning. Pruning your prayer plant will also allow more light to reach the inner leaves, promoting healthier plants and more vibrant foliage.

Hardiness Map