Maranta leuconeura kerchoveana – The Green Prayer Plant

The Green Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura kerchoveana) is one of the most loved varieties of Prayer Plants, celebrated for its unique leaf patterns and its charming nightly ritual of folding its leaves like hands in prayer.

Appearance

• Soft light green leaves patterned with dark green blotches running down the midrib, often likened to little paw prints.

• Undersides are usually pale green to silvery, lacking the strong red tones found in other Marantas.

• Grows low to the soil, forming a spreading, dense mat of foliage.

Suitability for Terrariums

This variety is excellent for terrariums and vivariums due to its preference for high humidity and evenly moist soil. Its creeping growth habit makes it an attractive ground cover, especially under taller plants.

Pet & Reptile Safety

✅ Non-toxic – Safe for reptiles, cats, dogs, and other pets.This makes it a fantastic choice for animal enclosures where curious pets or reptiles may come into contact with the leaves.

Care Tips

• Light: Prefers bright, indirect light. Can tolerate medium light but avoid direct sun, which can scorch the leaves.

• Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Sensitive to tap water chemicals—use filtered or rainwater if possible.

• Humidity: Thrives in high humidity (60%+), ideal for closed terrariums or well-humidified rooms.

• Temperature: Keep warm and stable; avoid cold drafts or sudden changes.