Fishbone Prayer Plant
Ctenanthe burle-marxii
Fishbone Prayer Plant is a low, spreading Marantaceae with pale green leaves striped in dark green and backed in deep purple. The leaves fold upward at night like other prayer plants. High humidity and filtered water keep the patterns looking sharp.
Light
Bright Indirect
Water
Moderate
Difficulty
Moderate
Humidity
High
Pet Friendly
Ctenanthe burle-marxii is considered non-toxic to cats and dogs, making it an excellent choice for pet owners.
Care Notes
Light
Give bright, indirect light. Direct sun bleaches leaves or leaves brown scorch marks. Lower light slows growth and softens the pattern.
Water
Keep the soil evenly moist, never soggy. Water when the top 0.5 to 1 inch feels dry. Use lukewarm filtered water or rainwater when you can; this plant reacts poorly to fluoride in tap water.
Soil
Use an airy mix of peat moss, perlite, and pine bark in a planter with drainage holes. The goal is moisture without compaction.
Humidity & Temperature
Aim for humidity above 60% with a humidifier, plant grouping, or pebble tray. Keep temperatures between 65°F and 85°F (18°C-29°C) and away from drafts or AC vents.
Common Issues
Yellow leaves often mean overwatering. Crispy brown edges usually mean low humidity or mineral-heavy water. Curled leaves can signal too much light or thirst. Check regularly for spider mites and mealybugs.
In-Depth Care & Growth
Feeding & Soil
Fertilizer
Water-soluble balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength
Soil
A well-draining, aerated mix containing peat moss, perlite, and pine bark to retain moisture without becoming compacted.
Physical Attributes
Mature Size
10-12 inches tall, 15-20 inches wide
Growth Rate
Moderate
Propagation
Propagated through root division during the spring repotting season. Ensure each division has a healthy root system and at least one leaf shoot.
Common Varieties
Ctenanthe burle-marxii 'Amagris' (silvery leaves with dark veins)
Small oval silvery-mint leaves with a dark green herringbone pattern and deep purple undersides.
Ctenanthe burle-marxii 'Amabilis'
Oblong silvery-green leaves with dark green herringbone striping and burgundy undersides.