The Ctenanthe burle-marxii, also known as the Fishbone Prayer Plant, is a popular indoor plant. Native to Brazil, this evergreen perennial features oval leaves with a pale green base and striking, dark green herringbone patterns. Its undersides display a rich burgundy-purple hue, visible when the plant folds its leaves upwards at night in a “prayer-like” motion, a characteristic called nyctinasty, before unfolding them at dawn.
Ctenanthe Burle-Marxii Care Essentials
Light Requirements
Ctenanthe burle-marxii thrives in bright, indirect light, mimicking its natural forest floor habitat. An east or north-facing window provides ideal filtered light. Direct sunlight can scorch delicate leaves, causing bleached patterns or brown spots. Insufficient light may fade vibrant patterns and slow growth.
Watering Practices
Keep the soil consistently moist, but never waterlogged. Water when the top inch or two of soil feels dry, ensuring thorough saturation until water drains from the pot’s bottom. This plant is sensitive to tap water chemicals like chlorine and fluoride, which can cause leaf tip burn or browning. Use distilled, filtered, or room-temperature rainwater to prevent these issues.
Humidity Needs
Ctenanthe burle-marxii thrives in high humidity, ideally 60-80%. Low humidity results in brown, crispy leaf edges or curling leaves. To increase humidity:
Use a humidifier near the plant.
Place the pot on a pebble tray filled with water.
Group plants together to create a localized humid microclimate.
Occasional misting provides a temporary boost.
Ideal Soil Mix
Ctenanthe burle-marxii requires a well-draining, moisture-retentive soil mix. A suitable blend includes potting soil, peat moss or coco coir, and perlite or sand. This combination ensures good aeration and prevents root rot from overly wet conditions. An aroid mix or a blend with orchid bark, pumice, or vermiculite also provides necessary drainage and moisture retention.
Temperature Range
Maintain stable temperatures for this tropical plant, ideally 65-80°F (18-27°C). Ctenanthe burle-marxii is sensitive to cold drafts and sudden temperature changes. Avoid placing it near drafty windows or doors, or close to heating/AC vents, as temperatures below 60°F (15°C) cause stress.
Fertilizing Guide
During the active growing season (spring and summer), fertilize every 4-6 weeks. Use a balanced, water-soluble liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength to prevent salt buildup and leaf burn. Reduce or stop fertilization entirely during fall and winter when the plant’s growth slows. Organic fertilizers like fish emulsion or worm castings can also be used sparingly.
Repotting Frequency
Repot Ctenanthe burle-marxii every 1-2 years or when it becomes root-bound. Signs include roots growing out of drainage holes, stagnant growth, or soil drying quickly. The best time to repot is spring, using a pot only slightly larger than the current one to avoid excess moisture retention.
Propagating Ctenanthe Burle-Marxii
Propagate Ctenanthe burle-marxii by division, ideally during spring or early summer repotting.
Division Steps
Carefully remove the plant from its pot and gently loosen soil around the root ball.
Identify natural divisions or clumps within the root system, ensuring each section has healthy roots and several stems or shoots.
Using a sharp, clean knife or secateurs, carefully separate these sections, ensuring each new division is substantial.
Pot each divided section into its own container with fresh, well-draining potting mix.
After potting, water thoroughly and place in a warm, humid environment with bright, indirect light to encourage establishment and new growth.
Addressing Common Ctenanthe Burle-Marxii Issues
Browning leaf tips or edges often indicate low humidity or water sensitivity. Increase ambient humidity and switch to distilled or filtered water. These symptoms can also arise from salt accumulation due to over-fertilization; adjust the feeding schedule if needed.
Curling leaves signal insufficient humidity, underwatering, or pests. If soil is dry, adjust watering practices for consistent moisture, and check for pests if humidity is adequate. Yellowing leaves suggest overwatering, which can lead to root rot, but may also indicate nutrient deficiencies or natural aging. Allow topsoil to dry before watering and ensure proper drainage to prevent overwatering.
Ctenanthe burle-marxii is susceptible to common houseplant pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. Regularly inspect the plant for signs such as webbing, sticky residue, or visible insects for early intervention. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap, neem oil, or by wiping leaves with a damp cloth. Loss of leaf movement (leaves not folding at night) indicates stress from improper light or other environmental factors. Ensure the plant receives appropriate bright, indirect light to restore its natural rhythm.