Ctenanthe are related to Maranta, Calathea and Stromanthe. All are known and cherished for their extraordinary decorative foliage and are sometimes called Prayer Plants due to the way the leaves close upwards in a prayer-like fashion in the dark.
The Ctenanthe burle marxii Amabilis has long, oval, grey-green leaves with a stunning fishbone pattern. The Never-Never Plant is also known as Fishbone Prayer Plant and in parts of Europe they are also known as Stromanthe.
Horty Hints
Warm Water Weekly! These plants like a lot to drink in the summer, sometimes 4 times per week. Use room temperature water, to keep the soil evenly moist, but not soggy.
Wipe leaves with a damp cloth to remove accumulated dust. Avoid using leaf shine as this will damage the foliage. Brown leaf tips may occur.
Location, Location, Location! Too little sun will cause the vivid colours on this plant to fade, too much and it will bleach and burn. A north or east-facing window for the win.