Prayer plant (Maranta amazonica)
Care, watering, light and tips for Prayer plant on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Marantaceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Prayer plant
Maranta amazonica, also known as Challwa kiwa, is a captivating tropical houseplant, admired for its dark green, oval leaves with distinctive veining and lighter 'eye' patterns. Its foliage folds up at night and unfurls at dawn, a phenomenon known as nyctinasty. It's ideal for adding an exotic and dynamic touch to shelves, coffee tables, or terrariums, where its movement can be appreciated.
Native range
Amazon basin in South America, including countries like Brazil, Peru, and Ecuador.
Care tips
It requires bright, indirect light; avoid direct sunlight which can scorch its leaves. Keep the substrate consistently moist but not waterlogged, and provide high ambient humidity through frequent misting or a humidifier, as it is sensitive to dryness. Use a well-draining, organic-rich potting mix. A common mistake is allowing the substrate to dry out completely between waterings, which can lead to brown leaf tips and curling.
How to save a dying Prayer plant
- Warning signs
- Curled, yellowing or browning, dry, brittle leaves. Lack of nightly leaf movement.
- First aid
- Increase humidity with a humidifier or pebble tray. Water only when substrate surface is dry. Move away from drafts and direct sun.
- What kills it
- Constant low humidity and dry substrate. Also overwatering leading to root rot.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots aren't completely rotted. Patience and humidity are key for recovery.