Ctenanthe

Characteristics

The Ctenanthe is a type of prayer plant. It is a tropical houseplant that is grown primarily for its particularly decorative leaves. At night, the leaves fold upward, which is typical of plants in the Marantaceae family, such as the Maranta and the Calathea. In addition to the sought-after species Ctenanthe lubbersiana (Calathea Golden Mosaic), there are also other species that are popular such as Ctenanthe oppenheimiana, Ctenanthe setosa and Ctenanthe burle-marxii. 

Origin

The Ctenanthe comes from the rain forests of South America. There it thrives in high humidity under the canopy of trees with filtered sunlight.

Care

Although these plants are relatively easy to care for, they are plants where you should check weekly for pests on the plant. Spider mites, mealy bugs and other pests like to sit on this type of plant. Pests can be brought in through clothing or the wind. By treating the plant preventively once every few months with biological insecticides and keeping the plant's resistance high through good water quality and proper care, you can prevent infections. Put these plants in good air movement, indirect sunlight and relatively high humidity.