Maranta (Prayer Plant) Care 101

The prayer plant is one of the most distinguishable tropicals, thanks to its beautiful decorative leaves. The popular tricolour variety has deep green, velvety leaves with yellow splotches down the midrib and arching red veins traveling to the leaf margins.

It gets its common name from the fact that its leaves stay flat during the day and then fold up like praying hands at night. They move their leaves from day to night as a part of their circadian rhythm.

Light

Although the prayer plant houseplant is somewhat tolerant of low light conditions, it does best in bright, indirect sunlight.

Marantas are not suited for intense, direct sun.

Water

Water every 1–2 weeks, allowing soil to dry out half way down between waterings. Expect to water more often in brighter light and less often in lower light.

This plant can benefit from extra humidity. 

Marantas can be sensitive to hard tap water. Try using filtered water or leaving water out overnight before using.

Pets

This plant is pet friendly!