Prayer Plant
Maranta leuconeura
houseplantThe Prayer Plant folds its leaves upward at night, resembling hands in prayer. Its beautifully patterned leaves make it a popular choice for desks and shelves.
Common Problems
Select the problem your Prayer Plant is experiencing to get a treatment guide.
Care Guide
Toxicity
Non-toxic.
Common Diseases
Common Pests
Seasonal Care
Resume regular watering and feeding as growth picks up.
Peak growing season. Water and feed regularly.
Reduce watering as growth slows. Stop heavy feeding.
Minimal watering and feeding. Protect from frost if needed.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why do my Prayer Plant's leaves fold up at night?
Prayer Plant folds its leaves upward at night in a movement called nyctinasty, resembling hands in prayer — this is completely normal behavior, not a sign of stress, and the leaves unfurl again in daylight.
Should I use tap water on my Prayer Plant?
Prayer Plant does best with filtered water, watered every 1–2 weeks while kept consistently moist — tap water minerals can build up and cause the leaf-tip browning this species is prone to.