Plant of the day

Maranta leuconeura

Prayer PlantHerb

Maranta leuconeura, widely known as the prayer plant due to its daily sunlight-dependent movements, is a species of flowering plant in the family Marantaceae native to the Brazilian tropical forests. It is a variable, rhizomatous perennial, growing to 30 cm (12 in) tall and broad, with crowded clumps of evergreen, strikingly-marked oval leaves, each up to 12 cm (5 in) long. The plant spreads itself horizontally, carpeting an entire small area of forest floor, sending roots into the substrate at each leaf node.

FamilyMarantaceae

GenusMaranta

NativeSouth America

LifespanPerennial

Sunlight

Full Sun

6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for best flowering.

Watering

Moderate

Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering.

Soil

Well-drained

Prefers well-drained, fertile, loamy soil rich in organic matter.

Fertilizer

Every 2-3 weeks

Use balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during growing season.

Pruning

Regular

Prune regularly to maintain shape and encourage more blooms.

Temperature

18-30°C

Thrives in warm temperatures. Protect from frost.

Pro TipCheck the plant regularly and adjust care by season.

Seasonal Care

How to care for your Hibiscus throughout the year.

View as

JFMAMJJASONDFloweringPruningFertilizeWater Daily

Common Problems & Solutions

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Yellow LeavesCause

Overwatering or poor drainage

Solution

Reduce watering and improve drainage.

PestsCause

Aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites

Solution

Use neem oil or insecticidal soap.

No FlowersCause

Lack of sunlight or nutrients

Solution

Provide 6+ hours sunlight daily.

Wilting LeavesCause

Underwatering or extreme heat

Solution

Water thoroughly and move to shade.

Expert Tips

Deadhead regularly to encourage more blooms.

Mulch the soil to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Move the plant to a larger pot if roots are bound.

Use organic compost for healthy growth and more flowers.