Medallion Prayer Plant
Meet the Medallion Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura), the plant with vibrant, heart-shaped leaves that are a showstopper in any space. This tropical beauty gets its name from its unique ability to fold its leaves upward at night, almost as if it’s praying — a magical display you’ll want to keep in your space. If you’re looking for a low-maintenance yet beautiful plant with a bit of personality, the Medallion Prayer Plant is your go-to. Let’s dive into how to care for this beauty!
🌞 Light: Bright, Indirect Light Medallion Prayer Plants thrive in bright, indirect light. Too much direct sunlight can scorch their leaves, causing them to lose their vibrant color and texture. They can tolerate lower light, but the more indirect light you give them, the better their colors and patterns will pop. A spot near a window with a sheer curtain is perfect!
Bonus Tip: If you notice the leaves losing their color or the plant becoming leggy, it’s probably a sign it needs more light. Just make sure to avoid direct sunlight, as it can cause the leaves to burn.
💦 Watering: Keep It Consistent Medallion Prayer Plants like consistently moist soil, but they don’t want to sit in water. Water them when the top inch of soil feels dry, but never let them sit in standing water. They are sensitive to water quality, so if your tap water has a lot of fluoride or chlorine, consider using filtered or distilled water.
Bonus Tip: During the winter months, the plant’s growth slows down, so it won’t need as much water. Keep an eye on the soil moisture and adjust watering accordingly.
🌡️ Temperature: Warm & Humid Being native to tropical regions, Medallion Prayer Plants love warm and humid environments. Keep them in temperatures between 65°F – 75°F (18°C – 24°C). They’re not fans of cold drafts or temperatures below 50°F (10°C), so keep them away from chilly windows, air conditioners, or heaters.
Bonus Tip: If your home is particularly dry, the plant will appreciate a little extra humidity. A humidity tray or small humidifier nearby will make your Medallion Prayer Plant feel right at home.
🌱 Humidity: Loves It! Medallion Prayer Plants love humidity and thrive in it. Ideally, aim for 60% or higher. If your space is dry (like during winter months), consider placing the plant on a humidity tray, grouping it with other plants, or using a humidifier to boost the moisture in the air. They’ll appreciate the extra love!
Bonus Tip: Misting the leaves occasionally can help, but don’t overdo it. Too much moisture on the leaves can lead to mold or fungal issues.
🌿 Soil: Well-Draining, Moist Mix Medallion Prayer Plants prefer a well-draining, moist soil mix. A standard houseplant mix with added perlite or sand will work great. They like their roots to be consistently moist but not waterlogged, so ensure that the soil drains well to avoid root rot.
Bonus Tip: Make sure the pot has good drainage holes so the water doesn’t accumulate at the bottom, which can lead to root rot.
🌳 Potting & Repotting: Slow Grower Medallion Prayer Plants don’t need to be repotted too often. Every 1-2 years is usually enough, or when you notice the plant becoming root-bound. When repotting, choose a pot that’s 1-2 inches larger than the current one. They don’t mind being a little snug, so don’t go too big!
Bonus Tip: Repot in spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Avoid repotting in the winter when it’s in its resting phase.
🧹 Cleaning: Keep Those Leaves Beautiful The beautiful patterns on the leaves of your Medallion Prayer Plant deserve to shine! Wipe them down with a damp cloth every couple of weeks to remove dust and help them photosynthesize more efficiently. Just be gentle, as the leaves are delicate.
Bonus Tip: Use lukewarm water when cleaning, and avoid any chemical leaf shine products — they can clog the pores on the leaves and affect the plant’s health.
⚡ Troubleshooting: What to Watch For
- Yellow Leaves: Yellowing leaves can be a sign of overwatering or underwatering. Check the soil moisture regularly, and make sure it’s draining well.
- Brown Tips: This is often a sign of low humidity or inconsistent watering. Make sure the air around your plant is humid enough and that you’re keeping a consistent watering schedule.
- Folding Leaves During Daytime: The Medallion Prayer Plant is known for its "praying" behavior at night, but if it’s doing this during the day, it could be a sign of stress due to overwatering, low light, or temperature fluctuations.
Medallion Prayer Plant’s Signature Look With its stunning green leaves, bold veins, and unique, heart-shaped shape, the Medallion Prayer Plant is a true eye-catcher. Its leaves fold upward in the evening, creating a beautiful and serene nighttime display that adds personality and elegance to any space.
You’ve got this! Keep your Medallion Prayer Plant happy with the basics — a little water, a touch of humidity, and some indirect light — and it will reward you with vibrant, stunning foliage that’s sure to brighten up your home. 🌿✨