Some houseplants simply sit pretty and then there are prayer plants, which come alive with motion. Known for their captivating behavior, these botanical wonders raise and lower their leaves in response to light, as if in prayer, giving them their enchanting name. Beyond their movement, prayer plants offer stunning leaf patterns, vibrant colors, and unique textures that bring a dynamic energy to any indoor space. Here are 10 mesmerizing prayer plants that will add rhythm, beauty, and a touch of magic to your home.
1. Maranta leuconeura ‘Red Vein’ (Red Prayer Plant)
Bold contrast and graceful movement.
This classic prayer plant features lush green leaves adorned with striking red veins and herringbone patterns. Its leaves fold upward at night and unfurl during the day, providing a daily performance that never grows old. It thrives in bright, indirect light and high humidity, making it perfect for terrariums or bathrooms. With a compact size and vivid coloration, the Red Prayer Plant is an ideal pick for shelves, desks, or coffee tables.
2. Maranta leuconeura ‘Lemon Lime’
Bright, citrus-inspired leaf patterns.
A cheerful twist on the classic Maranta, the ‘Lemon Lime’ variety boasts neon green veins and lime-colored midribs that pop against its olive-green foliage. This prayer plant brings a vibrant energy to any space, especially when placed in a white or neutral-colored pot. It appreciates warmth, humidity, and regular misting. Its rhythmic leaf movements and tropical hues make it a joyful addition to any plant collection.
3. Calathea orbifolia
Elegant stripes with a commanding presence.
With broad, rounded leaves marked by soft silvery stripes, Calathea orbifolia adds a touch of luxury and tranquility to interiors. Though technically in the Marantaceae family and not a “Maranta,” it behaves like a prayer plant raising and lowering its leaves daily. It prefers medium light and consistent moisture. This showstopper makes an excellent statement plant, perfect for modern and bohemian décor styles alike.
4. Calathea lancifolia (Rattlesnake Plant)
Wavy leaves with vibrant undersides.
True to its name, the Rattlesnake Plant features long, narrow leaves with deep green spots and purple undersides. It’s a lively and animated plant, especially in the evening when it lifts its foliage like hands in prayer. It thrives in low to moderate light and adds a wild, jungle-like feel to your room. Great for plant parents who want movement and flair in a low-light space.
5. Calathea makoyana (Peacock Plant)
Delicate patterns that look painted by hand.
The Peacock Plant flaunts lacy, feather-like designs in shades of green with purple-tinted undersides. Its translucent leaf patterns seem to glow when backlit. True to prayer plant fashion, it responds to changes in light with fluid, graceful motion. It needs high humidity, making it a good choice for terrariums or grouped with other tropicals. Its elegant beauty is perfect for elevating any corner of your home.
6. Ctenanthe burle-marxii (Fishbone Prayer Plant)
Subtle beauty with silvery green style.
With pale green leaves patterned like fishbones and rich purple undersides, this Ctenanthe variety is understated yet stunning. Its foliage folds up each evening and reopens with morning light, creating a daily ritual of gentle movement. It’s perfect for tabletop displays or grouped with other Marantaceae family members. Ctenanthe burle-marxii is a graceful and calming addition to any plant shelf or office nook.
7. Calathea roseopicta ‘Medallion’
Striking circular leaves with rich color contrast.
This popular Calathea variety features large, round leaves with deep green centers, light green margins, and pinkish-white markings plus deep purple undersides. Its leaves move in response to the light cycle, creating a visually mesmerizing rhythm. It enjoys bright, filtered light and regular watering. The ‘Medallion’ is a bold decorative plant that adds drama and movement to any indoor jungle.
8. Calathea triostar (Stromanthe sanguinea)
Colorful flair with graceful posture.
Though often grouped with Calatheas, Stromanthe triostar is a prayer plant cousin known for its painterly pink, white, and green foliage. At night, its variegated leaves fold upward, revealing deep burgundy undersides. The triostar thrives in bright, indirect light and humid conditions. It makes a stunning focal point and instantly brightens any room with its pastel palette and animated habit.
9. Maranta leuconeura ‘Kim’
Rare and refined with soft tones.
‘Kim’ is a lesser-known Maranta variety with delicate, pale green leaves and subtle silvery markings. It offers a softer look than the more dramatic red or lemon-lime types, making it ideal for minimalist or serene settings. Its gentle leaf movement remains as captivating as ever, rising at dusk and settling by day. This variety is perfect for collectors or anyone seeking a more refined take on prayer plants.
10. Ctenanthe setosa ‘Grey Star’
Architectural elegance with silvery sheen.
This Ctenanthe boasts long, elliptical leaves with soft gray-green coloring and deep green stripes, finished with velvety purple undersides. It behaves much like other prayer plants, with noticeable nyctinastic (nighttime) leaf movement. ‘Grey Star’ offers a cool, modern aesthetic and thrives in bright, filtered light. Use it to add vertical interest and silvery tones to a mixed plant display or minimalist setting.
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