Low, spreading clumps of pale leaves brushed with dark green fishbone bars and burgundy undersides. A lush, pet-safe groundcover-style foliage plant for shaded rooms.
At a glance
- Plant type: Indoor plant
- Mature size: 40 cm tall
- Aspect: part shade or morning sun and shade and low-light positions
- Water: consistently moist soil
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: moderate maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Fishbone Prayer Plant
Botanically, Ctenanthe burle-marxii is an moderate-growing indoor plant in the Marantaceae family. It reaches around 40 cm tall at maturity, with evergreen, variegated and purple-toned foliage.
Where to grow Fishbone Prayer Plant
Fishbone Prayer Plant suits tropical and subtropical climates and grows best in part shade or morning sun and shade and low-light positions. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot.
Soil & planting
Most soils suit Fishbone Prayer Plant provided drainage is reasonable. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Fishbone Prayer Plant is consistently moist soil. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Fishbone Prayer Plant in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Overall it is moderate maintenance.
Using Fishbone Prayer Plant in the garden
Fishbone Prayer Plant earns its place for pots and courtyard containers. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Fishbone Prayer Plant with other plants that enjoy the same consistently moist soil and tropical climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Fishbone Prayer Plant
Plant Sale lists Fishbone Prayer Plant as potted plants. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment we have it ready.