Prayer plant care: light, water, and pet safety

Maranta leuconeura

Care table

LightMedium light to bright indirect light. Medium to bright indirect. Leaves fold up at night.
WaterLikes evenly moist soil. Water when the top inch of soil is dry.
HumidityWants 50 percent or more
RepottingSpring to early summer, when roots circle the pot or grow out the drainage hole. Go up 1 to 2 inches in pot width.

Winter care

Keep soil lightly moist and the air humid. Keep it above 60 F.

Pet safety

Non-toxic to cats and dogs (ASPCA). ASPCA entry: Prayer Plant (Marantaceae)

Pet safety comes from the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants list. The list is not exhaustive, and a plant marked non-toxic can still upset a pet stomach. If a pet eats a plant and you are worried, call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 (a fee may apply). ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants list.

Common problems

  • Brown leaf edges: Dry air or tap water salts.
  • Faded leaves: Too much direct sun.

Illinois Extension, Prayer plant

How to check the soil

Finger test: push a finger into the soil up to the first knuckle, about an inch. Dry and crumbly means that layer is dry. Cool or damp means wait. For deeper checks use a wooden skewer: it comes out clean when the soil is dry.

All houseplants and the Light and Water tool

Guides

Sources