How to care for your Prayer Plant

How to care for your Prayer Plant

Our tips for helping it grow healthy and strong

The Prayer Plant, also known as Kokedama maranta, is a beautiful herbaceous perennial native to Brazil. In our nursery, this plant is appreciated for its decorative leaves that close at night, resembling praying hands. It is a perfect choice for anyone who wants a touch of exotic, dynamic greenery in their home.

The right location

The Prayer Plant loves bright, indirect light, but it also tolerates partial shade. It is important to avoid direct exposure to sunlight, which could damage its delicate leaves. Place it somewhere it can receive moderate light to ensure optimal growth.

Illustrated guide: placing the Prayer Plant near a window with indirect light
The right location for your plant

When and how to water it

Water your Prayer Plant when the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch. During summer, you may need to water it every 3 days, while every 7 days will be sufficient in winter. Check the soil moisture by inserting a finger into the substrate to make sure it is the right time to water.

Annual watering schedule for the Prayer Plant, with different frequencies in summer and winter
The watering schedule throughout the year

Temperature and humidity

This plant thrives in an environment with temperatures between 18 and 25 degrees Celsius. It is important to maintain a high humidity level, between 60% and 80%, to recreate the conditions of its natural habitat. If the air is too dry, consider using a humidifier or misting the leaves regularly.

Thermometer with ideal temperature range and humidity bar for the Prayer Plant
Comfort temperature and humidity

The right fertilizer

During spring and summer, we recommend using a balanced liquid fertilizer every 30 days. This will help your Prayer Plant maintain lush, healthy foliage.

The pot and soil

For your Prayer Plant, choose well-draining potting soil made of peat and perlite. This type of substrate ensures good drainage and prevents waterlogging, which could cause root problems. Repot the plant when necessary, preferably in spring.

How to propagate it

The Prayer Plant can be propagated by division during spring. This method is moderately difficult, but with a little attention and care, you can grow new plants to add to your collection.

Our final tip

The Prayer Plant is a green companion that requires a little attention, but it will reward you with its unique beauty. Remember to monitor humidity and avoid overwatering to prevent yellowing leaves. With the right care, it will become a charming feature of your green space.

— Giulia's Gardens

Verified care data

This data comes directly from the validated botanical profile used to generate the guide.

Light
Moderate · Bright indirect light; also tolerates partial shade.
Watering
3 days in summer · 7 days in winter · Water when the top layer of soil is dry. · Check the soil moisture with a finger.
Temperature
18 °C ideal minimum · 25 °C ideal maximum · 15 °C tolerated minimum · 30 °C tolerated maximum
Humidity
High · 60% minimum · 80% maximum
Fertilization
Balanced liquid fertilizer · Spring and summer · Every 30 days
Propagation
Division · Moderate · Propagate during spring.