The Fishbone Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura var. erythroneura), also known as Ctenanthe burle-marxii, is a popular houseplant primarily recognized for its striking foliage. Native to Brazil’s tropical rainforests, these plants are admired for their vibrant leaf patterns and unique habit of folding their leaves upwards at night, resembling hands in prayer. While the plant’s captivating leaves are its main ornamental feature, it does produce flowers, though they are often less conspicuous than the foliage.
Characteristics of the Fishbone Prayer Plant Flower
The flowers of the Fishbone Prayer Plant are generally small and inconspicuous, often blending with the plant’s lush leaves. They typically appear in clusters on slender stalks, or inflorescences. Individual blooms are usually white or light purple, and sometimes exhibit faint spotting. These delicate, two-lipped flowers are modest in size, rarely reaching half an inch, and typically do not possess a strong scent.
Flowering Conditions and Care
For a Fishbone Prayer Plant to produce flowers, it generally needs consistent, favorable growing conditions that mimic its native rainforest habitat. Bright, indirect light is preferred, as too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and hinder blooming. High humidity, ideally between 50% and 80%, is beneficial for overall plant health and indirectly supports flowering; this can be achieved through regular misting or the use of a humidifier. Consistent watering is also important, keeping the soil evenly moist but never waterlogged to prevent root rot.
Allowing the top inch or so of soil to dry out between waterings is a good practice. Fertilization during the growing season, typically from spring to early fall, with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks can promote healthy growth that supports flowering. Mature, well-established plants are more likely to flower than younger specimens, as flowering indicates the plant is thriving and receiving optimal care.
Post-Flowering and Significance
After flowering, the small blooms on a Fishbone Prayer Plant will eventually fade. Removing these spent flowers, a process known as deadheading, is often optional due to their inconspicuous size. Deadheading can redirect the plant’s energy from seed production back into foliage growth, which is typically the desired outcome for this plant.
The presence of flowers on a Fishbone Prayer Plant is a clear indication of a healthy and well-cared-for plant. It signifies that the plant is receiving suitable light, humidity, and watering, allowing it to thrive in its environment. Although the flowers themselves may not be visually striking, their appearance is a testament to successful cultivation. Allowing the plant to flower does consume energy, which might otherwise be used for producing more of its characteristic vibrant leaves.