Prayer Plant
Maranta leuconeura · Marantaceae
- Light
- Medium to bright-indirect
- Water
- Moderate
- Humidity
- High
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Pet-safe
- Yes
- Propagation
- Division, Stem Cuttings
Common problems: Spider MitesMealybugsRoot RotFungus Gnats
Quick facts
- Light: Medium to bright indirect · Water: Keep lightly moist
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Pet-safe: Yes
Description
A low, spreading plant with patterned leaves that fold upward at night, giving the “prayer plant” name. It is loved for foliage, but it wants more consistent care than pothos or ZZ plant.
Care
- Light: Medium to bright indirect. Too much direct sun fades or burns leaves.
- Water: Keep lightly moist, letting only the surface dry. Avoid soggy soil.
- Soil & potting: Moisture-retentive but airy mix.
- Humidity & temperature: Likes higher humidity and stable warmth.
- Feeding: Light feeding spring-summer.
- Repotting / propagation: Repot gently; shallow roots dislike extremes.
Propagation
By division or stem cuttings with nodes. Division is easiest when the plant is full; stem cuttings root in water or moist soil if a node is included. See Propagation Basics.
Toxicity
Pet-safe. ASPCA lists prayer plant as non-toxic to cats and dogs.
Common ailments, afflictions & pests
Click any item for how to identify and treat it.
- Spider Mites — stippling and webbing, especially in dry air.
- Mealybugs — white cotton in leaf/stem joints.
- Root Rot — from soil that stays wet and airless.
- Fungus Gnats — a sign the mix is too wet.
- Crispy edges? Usually low humidity, salts, underwatering, or too much sun.
See also: Diagnose a Problem.