Source: Wikimedia Commons
Prayer Plant
IntermediateMaranta leuconeura
A houseplant with enjoyable 'prayer' movements, folding leaves upward at night. Leaf patterns are also beautiful.
About
Maranta leuconeura, the prayer plant, is a perennial in the family Marantaceae, native to the tropical rainforests of Brazil. Its common name derives from its remarkable nyctinastic behaviour: the leaves fold upward at night in a gesture resembling hands in prayer, then spread open again in daylight. The leaf surface is elaborately patterned with reddish-brown markings on a pale green background, while the undersides are rich red-purple. It thrives in bright indirect light; direct sun fades the vivid leaf patterns. Keep the soil consistently slightly moist, as drought stress causes leaf curl and browning. Like calatheas, it is sensitive to chlorine in tap water; filtered or rainwater is ideal. Slower-growing than calathea but similarly beautiful, and generally easier to maintain — a good choice for those new to marantaceae plants.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Size of the Prayer Plant
The Prayer Plant grows to 15-30cm.
Temperature & humidity for the Prayer Plant
High humidity (50–70%) and regular misting promote healthy growth.
Basic Info
Origin
Brazil
Lifespan
Perennial
Size
15-30cm
Temperature
15〜30℃
Humidity
50〜70%
Watering & Fertilizer
Watering, Liquid fertilizer
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
Bright indirect light is ideal; direct sun fades the leaf colors. It grows slowly and spreads sideways, so a table or shelf suits it.
Watering
It dislikes drying out, so keep the soil slightly moist at all times. It is sensitive to chlorine, so use rested or filtered water.
Temperature & Overwintering
Cold-sensitive; keep it above 15°C. High humidity (50-70%) is ideal, so mist often in dry winter rooms.
Soil & Repotting
Use a mix that drains yet holds moisture, and repot one size up once roots fill the pot.
Prayer Plant FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Prayer Plant?
Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.
QHow large does Prayer Plant get?
The mature size of Prayer Plant is 15-30cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Prayer Plant?
Prayer Plant: watering & fertilizer — Watering, Liquid fertilizer. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Prayer Plant?
The price of Prayer Plant varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: August 31, 2026
Growing Specifications
- USDA Zone
- 11–12
Sources: Missouri Botanical Garden Plant Finder - Maranta leuconeura
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Foliage plant. Confirmed by document review to be non-applicable to CITES Appendix (Flora), designated invasive species, or designated animals (the genus does not appear in the CITES flora section; Dracaena spp. listings in CITES refer to a reptile genus of the same name; the plant Dracaena is not applicable).
Sources: CITES Appendices I/II/III (flora section, grepped via dbca mirror) / CITES Appendices (official) / Ministry of the Environment List of Specified Invasive Alien Species
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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