Why Is It Called a Prayer Plant? Explained

By Emma Thompson · April 26, 2025

The prayer plant gets its name from the unique way its leaves fold upward at night, resembling hands in prayer. This movement, known as nyctinasty, is a natural response to light changes and is most visible in species like Maranta leuconeura.

Why Is It Called a Prayer Plant?

The name "prayer plant" comes from the plant's distinctive leaf movement. Each evening, the leaves rise and close together, mimicking the posture of folded hands during prayer. This behavior reverses each morning when the leaves open flat again to absorb sunlight.

Origins of the Name

The term "prayer plant" primarily refers to Maranta leuconeura, the most well-known species in the group.
The motion is a circadian rhythm-driven process influenced by light and temperature.
The scientific term for this movement is nyctinasty, derived from Greek words for "night" and "to bend."
Although other plants in the Marantaceae family (like Calathea and Stromanthe) show similar behavior, only Maranta species are true "prayer plants."

How Do Prayer Plants Move Their Leaves?

Prayer plants use specialized structures called pulvini—thickened motor organs at the base of each leaf stalk—to control leaf position. These pulvini adjust turgor pressure in response to environmental cues.

Key Triggers for Leaf Movement

Light levels: Leaves close as daylight fades and reopen with sunrise.
Circadian rhythm: Even in constant darkness, the movement continues on a roughly 24-hour cycle.
Humidity and temperature: Extreme changes can alter the timing or extent of movement.

Species	Common Name	Leaf Movement Amplitude	Optimal Humidity (%)	Light Requirement (fc)
Maranta leuconeura	Prayer Plant	High	60–80	100–200
Calathea makoyana	Peacock Plant	High	70–85	100–150
Stromanthe sanguinea	Tricolor Stromanthe	Very High	65–80	150–250
Maranta leuconeura var. kerchoveana	Rabbit Track Prayer Plant	High	60–75	100–200

Table data source:1, 2

The data shows that all Marantaceae species exhibit significant nyctinastic movement, with Stromanthe sanguinea showing the most dramatic shift. High humidity is critical across species, reflecting their native tropical understory habitats. Light requirements remain moderate, aligning with their preference for indirect sunlight.

Benefits of Owning a Prayer Plant

Air purification: Removes common indoor pollutants like formaldehyde and benzene.
Humidity regulation: Releases moisture into the air, improving indoor comfort.
Visual interest: Striking foliage patterns combined with dynamic movement enhance interior aesthetics.
Biophilic design: Supports mental well-being through connection to natural rhythms.

Frequently Asked Questions About Prayer Plants

What causes a prayer plant's leaves to move up and down?

The movement is driven by changes in turgor pressure within the pulvinus, a joint-like structure at the leaf base. Light and circadian signals trigger water shifts in these cells, causing the leaves to lift or droop.

Do all prayer plants pray every night?

Most healthy prayer plants display consistent nyctinastic movement under normal conditions. However, stress from low humidity, poor lighting, or pests can reduce or stop the motion temporarily.

Are Calatheas the same as prayer plants?

No, but they are closely related. Both belong to the Marantaceae family and exhibit similar leaf movements. True prayer plants are Maranta species, while Calatheas are a separate genus.

Can I keep a prayer plant in low light?

Prayer plants prefer bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light. However, too little light may reduce leaf movement, slow growth, and dull foliage coloration. East-facing windows are ideal.

How often should I water my prayer plant?

Water when the top inch of soil feels dry—typically once a week. Use distilled or rainwater if possible, as prayer plants are sensitive to chlorine and fluoride in tap water.