Fishbone Prayer Plant
Ctenanthe burle-marxii
burle-marxii
About this plant
Ctenanthe burle-marxii, commonly known as the Fishbone Prayer Plant, is admired for its striking patterned leaves with dark green and light green stripes resembling a fishbone. It is a tropical plant that folds its leaves upward at night, a behavior known as nyctinasty. This plant is popular as a decorative houseplant due to its attractive foliage and air-purifying qualities.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Ctenanthe
- Family
- Marantaceae
- Higher classification
- Order Zingiberales
- Plant type
- Houseplant
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Brazil
- Distribution
- Native to Brazil; widely cultivated as a houseplant worldwide.
Care
- Light preference
- Partial shade
- Suitable locations
- Indoor, Greenhouse, Balcony
- Preferred window facing
- East-facing, North-facing, Northeast-facing, Northwest-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 3–7 days
- Humidity
- High
- Minimum
- 15 °C
- Maximum
- 30 °C
- Optimal
- 18-26 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 10-12
- Soil pH
- 5.5-6.5
- Soil type
- well-draining potting soil mix rich in organic matter
Watering. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid letting the plant sit in water to prevent root rot. Increase watering frequency in warmer months and reduce in cooler months.
Fertilizing. Feed the plant with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing in winter when growth slows down.
Ctenanthe burle-marxii is a moderately easy plant to care for. It prefers indirect light and high humidity. Overwatering or poor drainage can cause root problems, so watering should be moderate and the soil well-draining. Regular misting helps maintain humidity and keeps the leaves healthy.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Cuttings, Division
- Care difficulty
- Medium
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- summer
Decorative striped foliage with a fishbone pattern, leaves fold upward at night, small pale flowers occasionally appear.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Non-toxic to humans and pets, making it safe for homes with children and animals.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Skin contact
- Pollen level
- None
Ctenanthe burle-marxii may cause mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals due to contact with its leaves. It does not produce airborne pollen that typically triggers allergies. To reduce any risk, avoid direct skin contact if you have sensitive skin and wash hands after handling the plant.
Common problems
Common problems include leaf browning or curling due to low humidity or inconsistent watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot. Pests like spider mites or mealybugs may occasionally appear.
Uses
Primarily grown as an ornamental houseplant for its attractive foliage and air-purifying qualities.
Notes
Prune any damaged or yellow leaves to encourage healthy growth. Repot every 2-3 years in fresh soil to maintain vigor. Sensitive to cold drafts and sudden temperature changes.