The prayer plant is a classic houseplant whose charm lies in its unusual leaves—get our tips for growing and caring for it

The prayer plant (Maranta leuconeura), is originally from the rainforests of Brazil. This popular plant is well-known for its broad, variegated, spotted green leaves. Spots run along both sides of the central vein, and their color varies by cultivar. The undersides of its leaves can be reddish-purple, pinkish, or red.

The plant's English name refers to the its playful feature: In the evening, the prayer plant raises its leaves up and folds them in, making them look like hands raised in prayer.

The prayer plant branches out sideways, so it needs space which is wide enough for it. The plant grows to about 20–30 centimeters in height.

The prayer plant often blooms in spring or summer and sometimes in the fall. Its flowers are small, white, and modest.

The prayer plant: growing and care

Temperature

The prayer plant does well in normal room temperature, which shouldn’t drop below 15 degrees.

Light conditions

As a rainforest plant, the prayer plant thrives in partial shade at home. A bright space also works, but direct sunlight can damage its leaves. In overly dark spots, the leaves lose their vibrant color.

Watering the prayer plant

Keep the soil evenly moist from spring through fall. Let the surface dry slightly between waterings, and pour off any excess water from the saucer to prevent rot. Water less in winter.

Fertilizing the prayer plant

Fertilize the prayer plant every two weeks when you water it. Skip fertilizing in winter.

Propagating the prayer plant

You can propagate the prayer plant by taking stem cuttings with two or three leaves. Place the cuttings in water, and plant once they develop sturdy roots.

You can also divide the root ball if it’s outgrown its pot.

Repotting the prayer plant

Change the prayer plant's potting mix in spring if needed.

Its root system is tuberous and fairly shallow, which means that a wide, shallow pot is ideal. Add expanded clay or broken pieces of clay pot to the bottom for drainage.

Other care for the prayer plant

The prayer plant loves humidity, so mist it often. Increasing humidity by grouping houseplants or placing a shallow tray of water among them also helps. If your bathroom has a window, it could be the perfect place for your prayer plant.

Varieties of the prayer plant:

The ‘Kerchoveana’ variety has light green veins and brownish-green spots, usually in groups of ten.

The ‘Erythroneura’ variety has red veins and dark green leaves with pale green spots lining the central vein.