Care Sheet - Maranta leuconeura “Prayer Plant”

Maranta leuconeura - “Prayer Plant”

Light: Maranta is naturally a low growing plant, lending it to do best in bright, ambient light conditions. Too much direct sunlight should be avoided, as it bleaches the dramatic colors of the leaves. 

Water: The maranta prefers evenly moist soil. It is okay for the first inch of soil to dry out, but ensure consistent moisture (not full saturation) to avoid wilting. Do not leave plants sitting in water. Mist leaves for ambient humidity. 

Environment: Native to Brazil, the prayer plant thrives in humid, warm conditions. It will not survive below 60 degrees Fahrenheit.  

Toxicity: Reported to be non-toxic

Of Note:

• The prayer plant is named after its unique behavior of folding its leaves at sundown (the folding resembles praying hands). This behavior is an evolutionary characteristic influenced by its native habitat where most predators are active at night in the cooler temperatures. The folding leaves resemble a dead plant, discouraging predators from taking a bite. 

• The maranta is a beautiful hanging plant that grows like philodendron and pothos, shooting leaves from the stem tips as it grows downward. 

If you notice your maranta crisping at the leaf edges or consistently drying out too fast, consider placing it on a “humidity tray” constructed of a plastic drainage pot and moistened volcanic rocks. Ask us for help creating one!
*When planting in a pot without a drainage hole, avoid over watering by estimating 25% of the container’s overall volume, with appropriate drainage materials incorporated when planting.