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How to Care Prayer plant
How to Care Prayer plant, Growing Prayer plant, Caring for Prayer plant
The genus prayer plant, often called 'Prayer Plants', is visually distinctive and requires specific care. The Basic Care Needs include medium to low indirect light, evenly moist soil, and warm temperatures. Prayer plant prefers a humid environment and well-draining soil. Common Challenges gardeners face include pests like spider mites, diseases such as leaf spot, and sensitivity to fluoride in tap water. Seasonal Considerations impact the care schedule; prayer plants require more water in summer and less in winter, and should be kept away from cold drafts. Regular misting can keep them healthy and vibrant.
Watering Frequency
Every week
Sunlight
Full shade
Basic Care Guide
Feedback
How to Water Prayer plant?
Watering Frequency: Every week
Prayer plant thrives in environments that mimic its native tropical rainforest habitat, where high humidity and regular rainfall are the norm. This species has adapted to prefer consistently moist soil without being waterlogged, showcasing a balance between hydration and drainage. Regular watering every week is necessary to maintain this equilibrium. Prayer plant typically flourishes indoors where humidity levels can be more easily controlled. As an evergreen plant, prayer plant's need for water remains constant throughout the year, making it essential to maintain a steady watering schedule regardless of the season.
What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Prayer plant?
Ideal Lighting: Full shade
Prayer plant originates from tropical rainforests, where it thrives under the canopy's dappled light. Ideally, prayer plant requires bright, indirect light for about 10-12 hours per day. Direct sun can scorch its leaves, while insufficient light diminishes leaf patterns and slows growth. Proper lighting fosters efficient photosynthesis, maintaining vibrant foliage and supporting its natural rhythms. Achieving this indoors requires close proximity to north or east-facing windows or gentle supplemental light from grow lights, ensuring prayer plant's lush development and potential flowering.
Advanced Care Guide
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How to Propagate Prayer plant?
Primary propagation methods for prayer plant include division and stem cuttings, as seeds are not commonly used. Success hinges on warmth (65-75°F), high humidity, and indirect light. Specific to prayer plant, the nodes on cuttings must be submerged in water or soil for root formation. Propagation is moderately difficult due to its humidity requirements. To propagate, divide during repotting or snip a stem with a few leaves and nodes, let it root in water, then pot in well-draining soil.
Steps:
- Select healthy stems;
- Cut below a node;
- Place in water or soil;
- Wait for roots;
- Pot rooted cuttings.
How to Plant Prayer plant?
Prayer plant thrive in rich, well-draining soil, medium to low light, and warm, humid conditions. To plant, prepare a planting area with these considerations, and ensure the plant sits at the same height as it was in its previous pot. Water lightly after planting and keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. While prayer plant is generally low-maintenance, individual species might have specific needs. Free from direct sunlight, consistent humidity, and avoiding water-logging are the key successful cultivation tips.
Key Facts About Prayer plant
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Attributes of Prayer plant
Sunlight
Full shade
Ideal Temperature
20 - 41 ℃
Scientific Classification of Prayer plant
More Info About Prayer plant
Types of Prayer Plant
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Variegated Arrowroot
Variegated Arrowroot is a variegated version of the tropical arrowroot plant best known for its alternating cream and green stripes on its foliage. Due to its attractive leaves, it is a popular houseplant. It also produces white short-lived flowers. In the early 19th century, it was commercially grown as a source of starch, which was obtained from the root.
Prayer plant
The prayer plant is a common houseplant and is known as a prayer plant due to it raising its leaves in a prayer motion during the evening. This plant requires indirect sunlight, high humidity and minimum temperatures of 15 ℃.
Prayer plant 'Fascinator'
Prayer plant 'Fascinator' is a particularly colorful variety of prayer plant. Leaves of this "fascinating" plant are tri-colored, featuring a pinkish-red herringbone pattern and light yellow splotches on a deep green background. The leaves' undersides sport pink-red splotches, which can be better seen when this plant folds up its leaves in the evening. All the markings on the foliage become more pronounced as the plant matures.
Prayer plant 'Lemon Lime'
The prayer plant 'Lemon Lime' is a striking prayer plant cultivar that, at first, may look similar to M. leuconeura 'Fascinator.' These two cultivars share very similar patterns: thin, roughly-horizontal herringbone stripes across each leaf and splotches down the center of each leaf. Where the cultivars differ is in their color. Prayer plant 'Lemon Lime' has a dark green background with very bright yellow or yellow-green stripes and splotches (as opposed to red or pink splotches). These cultivar's bold patterns make them popular amongst collectors.
Prayer plant 'Kerchoviana'
The prayer plant 'Kerchoviana' is instantly recognizable among prayer plants. This plant sports two rows of dark, roughly geometrical splotches on an emerald-green background. From a distance, this plant can even appear to be spotted. A small yet very hardy cultivar, the prayer plant 'Kerchoviana' is a popular houseplant that can be put in small nooks and crannies where other plants may not fit.
Calathea 'White Fusion'
Calathea 'White Fusion' often folds its leaves at night, making it look like it is praying. The variegated leaves are why it is sometimes called a white fusion plant. The foliage also separates it from other cultivars in the genus. The plant's purple underside also makes it stand out, giving it a peacock-like appearance.
Arrowroot
Arrowroot (Maranta arundinacea) is a perennial herb found in rainforest environments. Currently, this species is grown mostly in St. Vincent in the series of Caribbean islands. This plant is commercially viable because the root starch extract is used to make foods, makeup, and glue.
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Thaumatococcus
Thaumatococcus is a genus of tropical flowering plants in the arrowroot family, Marantaceae, containing 2 species native to Africa.
Calatheas
The genus of calatheas contains flowering plants that thrive in moist, tropical environments. They are often used as ornamental ground cover but also work well as container plants. Many species feature striking leaves. The Latin name of the genus, Goeppertia, honors German botanist Heinrich Goppert (1800–1884).
Stromanthe
Stromanthe can usually be identified by their long, narrow bi-color leaves. Some species in the genus rarely bloom but when they do the flowers are typically white with red bracts. Stromanthe are perennials that are native to tropical America and have produced many cultivars which are popularly used as house plants.
packing leaf
Packing leaf is a plant genus native to China, India, Southeast Asia, New Guinea and Melanesia.
Stachyphrynium
Stachyphrynium is a genus of plants native to China, the Indian Subcontinent, and Southeast Asia.
Prayer plant
Prayer plant are a relatively small group of tropical flowering plants. These plants got their common name from a quirky behavioral feature - their leaves, while flat during the day, fold and turn upward at night as if offering a prayer. Their unique foliage makes prayer plant attractive houseplants or specimens in conservatories.
Alligator-flag
Alligator-flag are plants found in aquatic or marshy habitats, such as swamps and ditches. They grow in North America, South America, and Africa. They have large, simple leaves that protrude from tall stalks. Alligator-flag are sometimes cultivated in water gardens in North America due to their bright foliage and ease of care.
Prayer plant
Prayer plant has a deep Burgundy color on the underneath of the foliage. This phenomenon is made possible by a small "joint" the plant possesses between the stem and leaf. Many species have decorative leaves and, in some species, colorful inflorescences. There are several dozen species in this genus. Prayer plant is native to the tropical Americas.
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About
Basic Care Guide
Advanced Care
Key Facts
Types
Similar Plants
Prayer plant
Maranta
The genus prayer plant, often called 'Prayer Plants', is visually distinctive and requires specific care. The Basic Care Needs include medium to low indirect light, evenly moist soil, and warm temperatures. Prayer plant prefers a humid environment and well-draining soil. Common Challenges gardeners face include pests like spider mites, diseases such as leaf spot, and sensitivity to fluoride in tap water. Seasonal Considerations impact the care schedule; prayer plants require more water in summer and less in winter, and should be kept away from cold drafts. Regular misting can keep them healthy and vibrant.
Watering Frequency
Every week
Sunlight
Full shade
Basic Care Guide
Feedback
How to Water Prayer plant?
Watering Frequency: Every week
Prayer plant thrives in environments that mimic its native tropical rainforest habitat, where high humidity and regular rainfall are the norm. This species has adapted to prefer consistently moist soil without being waterlogged, showcasing a balance between hydration and drainage. Regular watering every week is necessary to maintain this equilibrium. Prayer plant typically flourishes indoors where humidity levels can be more easily controlled. As an evergreen plant, prayer plant's need for water remains constant throughout the year, making it essential to maintain a steady watering schedule regardless of the season.
What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Prayer plant?
Ideal Lighting: Full shade
Prayer plant originates from tropical rainforests, where it thrives under the canopy's dappled light. Ideally, prayer plant requires bright, indirect light for about 10-12 hours per day. Direct sun can scorch its leaves, while insufficient light diminishes leaf patterns and slows growth. Proper lighting fosters efficient photosynthesis, maintaining vibrant foliage and supporting its natural rhythms. Achieving this indoors requires close proximity to north or east-facing windows or gentle supplemental light from grow lights, ensuring prayer plant's lush development and potential flowering.
Advanced Care Guide
Feedback
How to Propagate Prayer plant?
Primary propagation methods for prayer plant include division and stem cuttings, as seeds are not commonly used. Success hinges on warmth (65-75°F), high humidity, and indirect light. Specific to prayer plant, the nodes on cuttings must be submerged in water or soil for root formation. Propagation is moderately difficult due to its humidity requirements. To propagate, divide during repotting or snip a stem with a few leaves and nodes, let it root in water, then pot in well-draining soil.
Steps:
- Select healthy stems;
- Cut below a node;
- Place in water or soil;
- Wait for roots;
- Pot rooted cuttings.
How to Plant Prayer plant?
Prayer plant thrive in rich, well-draining soil, medium to low light, and warm, humid conditions. To plant, prepare a planting area with these considerations, and ensure the plant sits at the same height as it was in its previous pot. Water lightly after planting and keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. While prayer plant is generally low-maintenance, individual species might have specific needs. Free from direct sunlight, consistent humidity, and avoiding water-logging are the key successful cultivation tips.
How to Grow and Care for Gardenia
Feedback
Attributes of Prayer plant
Sunlight
Full shade
Ideal Temperature
20 - 41 ℃
Scientific Classification of Prayer plant
Types of Prayer Plant
Feedback
Variegated Arrowroot
Variegated Arrowroot is a variegated version of the tropical arrowroot plant best known for its alternating cream and green stripes on its foliage. Due to its attractive leaves, it is a popular houseplant. It also produces white short-lived flowers. In the early 19th century, it was commercially grown as a source of starch, which was obtained from the root.
Prayer plant
The prayer plant is a common houseplant and is known as a prayer plant due to it raising its leaves in a prayer motion during the evening. This plant requires indirect sunlight, high humidity and minimum temperatures of 15 ℃.
Prayer plant 'Fascinator'
Prayer plant 'Fascinator' is a particularly colorful variety of prayer plant. Leaves of this "fascinating" plant are tri-colored, featuring a pinkish-red herringbone pattern and light yellow splotches on a deep green background. The leaves' undersides sport pink-red splotches, which can be better seen when this plant folds up its leaves in the evening. All the markings on the foliage become more pronounced as the plant matures.
Prayer plant 'Lemon Lime'
The prayer plant 'Lemon Lime' is a striking prayer plant cultivar that, at first, may look similar to M. leuconeura 'Fascinator.' These two cultivars share very similar patterns: thin, roughly-horizontal herringbone stripes across each leaf and splotches down the center of each leaf. Where the cultivars differ is in their color. Prayer plant 'Lemon Lime' has a dark green background with very bright yellow or yellow-green stripes and splotches (as opposed to red or pink splotches). These cultivar's bold patterns make them popular amongst collectors.
Show More Plants
More Similar Plants
Feedback
Thaumatococcus
Thaumatococcus is a genus of tropical flowering plants in the arrowroot family, Marantaceae, containing 2 species native to Africa.
Calatheas
The genus of calatheas contains flowering plants that thrive in moist, tropical environments. They are often used as ornamental ground cover but also work well as container plants. Many species feature striking leaves. The Latin name of the genus, Goeppertia, honors German botanist Heinrich Goppert (1800–1884).
Stromanthe
Stromanthe can usually be identified by their long, narrow bi-color leaves. Some species in the genus rarely bloom but when they do the flowers are typically white with red bracts. Stromanthe are perennials that are native to tropical America and have produced many cultivars which are popularly used as house plants.
packing leaf
Packing leaf is a plant genus native to China, India, Southeast Asia, New Guinea and Melanesia.
Stachyphrynium
Stachyphrynium is a genus of plants native to China, the Indian Subcontinent, and Southeast Asia.
Prayer plant
Prayer plant are a relatively small group of tropical flowering plants. These plants got their common name from a quirky behavioral feature - their leaves, while flat during the day, fold and turn upward at night as if offering a prayer. Their unique foliage makes prayer plant attractive houseplants or specimens in conservatories.
Alligator-flag
Alligator-flag are plants found in aquatic or marshy habitats, such as swamps and ditches. They grow in North America, South America, and Africa. They have large, simple leaves that protrude from tall stalks. Alligator-flag are sometimes cultivated in water gardens in North America due to their bright foliage and ease of care.
Prayer plant
Prayer plant has a deep Burgundy color on the underneath of the foliage. This phenomenon is made possible by a small "joint" the plant possesses between the stem and leaf. Many species have decorative leaves and, in some species, colorful inflorescences. There are several dozen species in this genus. Prayer plant is native to the tropical Americas.
Your Ultimate Guide to Plants
Identify grow and nurture the better way!
17,000 local species +400,000 global species studied
Nearly 5 years of research
80+ scholars in botany and gardening
Continue reading in our app - it's better
A database of 400000+ plants
unlimited guides at your fingertips...
unlimited guides at your fingertips...
