Prayer Plant

Maranta leuconeuraAlso known as: Herringbone Plant, Rabbit Tracks

The Prayer Plant is a captivating tropical plant known for its stunning patterned leaves and unique behavior - leaves fold upward at night like hands in prayer. Native to Brazilian rainforests, it features oval leaves with intricate patterns in green, red, and cream. Grows 10-12 inches (25-30 cm) tall.

Moderate Care

Low to Medium Light

Perennial

Quick Care Summary

Light
Low to Medium Light

Temperature Range
60-80°F (16-27°C)

Ideal Temp
70°F (21°C)

Pet Safe

This plant is non-toxic to cats and dogs. While it's safe to have around pets, ingestion of any plant material may still cause mild stomach upset.

Seasonal Care Schedule

Adjust your care routine based on the season for optimal plant health.

Watering Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Every 5-7 days, keep soil consistently moist
Summer	Every 3-5 days, never let soil dry out completely
Fall	Every 7-10 days
Winter	Every 10-14 days, slightly reduce but maintain moisture

Sensitive to chemicals in tap water. Use filtered, distilled, or rainwater for best results.

Misting Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Daily
Summer	Multiple times daily or use humidifier
Fall	Daily
Winter	Daily, essential in heated rooms

Requires high humidity (50%+). Brown leaf tips indicate low humidity.

Fertilizing Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Every 2 weeks with diluted balanced fertilizer
Summer	Every 2 weeks at half-strength
Fall	Monthly
Winter	No fertilizing

Light feeder. Flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.

Pruning

Frequency: As needed

Best Season: Spring

Prune to encourage bushier growth. Remove damaged or yellowing leaves at the base.

Repotting

Frequency: Every 1-2 years

Best Season: Spring

Use well-draining, peat-based mix. Shallow pots work well as roots spread horizontally.

Flowering

Season
Spring or summer in mature plants

Color
Small white or lavender flowers

Tiny flowers may appear on stems. Often removed to direct energy to foliage.

Propagation Methods

Division during repotting
Stem cuttings below a node
Root cuttings in water or moist soil

Common Problems

Brown leaf tips: Low humidity or water quality issues
Curling leaves: Underwatering or cold temperatures
Fading leaf patterns: Too much direct light
Yellow leaves: Overwatering or root rot

Pro Tips

Watch the leaves move - they fold up at night and open in morning
Perfect for terrariums due to humidity needs
Safe for pets - a great choice for pet owners
Group with other humidity-loving plants

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