The Green East

Ctenanthe Burle-marxii

£15.00
/
Tax included.

Ctenanthe burle-marxii, or as many of us affectionately call it, the Fishbone Prayer Plant it’s easily one of the most rewarding members of the Marantaceae family. While its cousins (like the Calathea) can be a bit "diva-ish," this one is generally more easy-going and puts on a wonderful show every evening when its leaves lift up as if in prayer.

Origins

  • Provenance: This beauty hails from the tropical rainforests of Brazil.

  • The Name: It’s named after the famous Brazilian landscape architect, Roberto Burle Marx.

Care Guide

  • Light: It fancies bright, indirect light. Think of a spot near an east-facing window. Avoid direct midday sun, as it’s quite harsh and will bleach those lovely fishbone patterns or crisp the leaf edges.

  • Watering: This is where they can be picky. Keep the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. I usually wait until the top inch of compost feels dry. In the winter, you can ease off a bit.

    • Top tip: If you can, use rainwater or filtered water. They aren't fans of the fluoride or chlorine often found in our tap water.

  • Humidity: Being a rainforest native, it loves a bit of "muckiness" in the air. A pebble tray or a regular misting is brilliant, but it’ll be happiest in a naturally humid room like a bathroom or kitchen.

  • Temperature: It prefers to stay warm, be sure to keep it away from cold draughts and radiators.

  • Feeding: During the growing season (roughly April to September), give it a splash of balanced liquid fertiliser every fortnight. There’s no need to feed it at all during the winter months.

  • Soil: A well-draining potting mix is essential. I usually mix standard peat-free houseplant compost with a bit of perlite to ensure the roots can breathe.

Quick Tip

If the leaves start to curl inward, it’s usually telling you it’s thirsty or the air is too dry. It’s a very communicative plant once you get to know its "language."

14Ø 40cm

Sold without a decorative pot, colour and size may vary slightly.

Local plant delivery or collection available in Belfast and throughout Northern Ireland.