The Fishbone Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura ‘Erythroneura’) is a striking ornamental houseplant known for its distinctive foliage. Its vibrant green leaves feature a unique herringbone pattern, resembling fishbones, and often display reddish-purple undersides. The plant exhibits a fascinating “prayer-like” movement, with leaves folding upwards at night and unfurling with morning light.
Fishbone Prayer Plant Care
Light Needs
Fishbone Prayer Plants thrive in bright, indirect light, mimicking their natural rainforest habitat. Place the plant near a north or east-facing window, or a few feet from a south or west-facing window, for ideal diffused light. Direct sunlight can scorch delicate leaves, causing fading or brown patches. If natural light is limited, artificial grow lights can supplement for 10-12 hours daily, positioned at least 12 inches above the plant. Rotate the plant periodically for balanced growth.
Watering
Maintain consistent soil moisture, but avoid waterlogging. Allow the top inch (2.5 cm) of soil to dry between waterings to prevent overwatering and root rot. Watering once a week is often sufficient, though this varies by environment. Use lukewarm, filtered, distilled, or rainwater, as these plants are sensitive to chlorine and hard minerals in tap water, which can cause brown leaf tips. Water thoroughly until drainage occurs, then discard excess.
Humidity and Temperature
Fishbone Prayer Plants thrive in high humidity, ideally 50-80%. Low humidity causes brown leaf edges. Increase humidity by placing the pot on a pebble tray, using a room humidifier, or grouping plants. These plants prefer warm temperatures, ideally 65-85°F (18-29°C), tolerating 68-100°F (20-38°C). Avoid temperatures below 50°F (10°C) and protect from cold drafts or sudden fluctuations.
Soil and Fertilizing
Use a well-draining, humus-rich potting mix that retains moisture and provides aeration. A common mix includes equal parts potting soil, peat or coco coir, and perlite or vermiculite. During the active growing season (spring through fall), fertilize every 2-6 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Reduce or cease fertilization in winter to prevent nutrient buildup.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Leaf Problems
Browning leaf tips or edges often indicate low humidity, inconsistent watering, or mineral buildup from tap water. Increase ambient humidity and use filtered water. Curling leaves signal underwatering or insufficient humidity.
Fading leaf color or scorched patches suggest too much direct light; move the plant to a shadier spot. Yellowing leaves can result from overwatering (leading to root rot) or a nutrient deficiency. Ensure proper drainage and review the watering schedule.
Pests and Diseases
Fishbone Prayer Plants can attract common houseplant pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and thrips. Spider mites cause speckled foliage and webbing; mealybugs appear as cottony masses. Regularly inspect leaves, especially undersides, for early detection. Treat by wiping leaves with a damp cloth or applying insecticidal soap or neem oil. Overwatering can lead to fungal issues like leaf rot or dark blotch, characterized by discolored patches. Improve air circulation and allow soil to dry slightly between waterings to prevent these problems.
Propagating Your Plant
The most common and successful method is root division. Gently separate clumps from a mature plant during repotting, ensuring each new section has healthy roots and at least one established stem. Stem cuttings can also be rooted in water or soil.
For water propagation, take a cutting about one inch below a node with a few leaves, then place it in filtered water in bright, indirect light. For soil propagation, dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining mix, then cover to create a humid environment. Spring and autumn are the best times for propagation, as mild temperatures encourage root growth.
Repotting Practices
Fishbone Prayer Plants do not require frequent repotting, typically every 1-2 years or when root-bound. Signs include roots emerging from drainage holes, water draining too quickly, or slowed growth. The best time to repot is spring or winter, minimizing stress.
Choose a new pot only 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) larger in diameter with drainage holes. Gently remove the plant, loosen the root ball, and trim any dead or decaying roots. Place fresh, well-draining soil mix in the new pot, center the plant, and backfill, keeping the plant at the same depth. After repotting, water thoroughly and place in bright, indirect light with high humidity for recovery.