Ctenanthe setosa - Never Never Plant

The striking Never Never plant stands out in any plant display with its green-and-silver leaf patterning, a natural-looking stripe pattern growing from the central vein of each leaf. Deep red undersides of each leaf also help it absorb the maximum amount of light in shadier spots. A prayer plant, it raises and lowers its leaves in response to daylight, a process known as nyctinasty - this clever, light-optimising adaptation is something to look out for! Keep this rainforest plant feeling at home with above-average humidity - it will be happiest in a bathroom or kitchen, or with the use of a pebble tray to increase local humidity. Add these patterned leaves to your home and keep them happy and you'll be enjoying its foliage for years to come.

Scientific Name
Ctenanthe setosa (hairy, comb-flower plant)

Synonyms: Maranta setosa, Myrosma setosa, Phrynium setosum, Stromanthe setosa, Thalia setosa

This species was identified as both a Maranta and a Stromanthe before its eventual classification as Ctenanthe in 1884, which is the currently accepted name. 

Common Name
Never Never Plant, Prayer Plant, Fishbone Prayer Plant

Origin
This plant is native to South America, mainly the Amazon basin in Eastern Brazil.

Light
Direct sun can easily scorch this plant; it will do best in a bright spot but away from the sun's strong rays. Can cope with lower light, where it will grow slower and need less water.

Water
Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry slightly between waterings. This plant can be sensitive to tapwater, so if you can provide rainwater or filtered water it will appreciate it.

Humidity
Ctenanthes love high humidity (60-80% is great) and will be appreciate it if you use a humidity tray. And don't keep them anywhere near an operating radiator!

Soil
Use a well-draining, moisture-retentive soil to keep this thirsty plant happy. A mix with added coir and perlite, or one designed for Calatheas and Marantas, should keep your Ctenanthe happy too! Repot every couple of years in Spring.

Food
Feed every four waters in the growing season, reduce to every six in autumn and winter.

Temperature
Ctenanthes thrive in temperatures between is 15-27°C; they need to stay above 12°C in winter.

Pet-safe
Yes, but too much nibbling won't be good for pets, small humans or the plant!

Sprouts Top Tips
A common issue with Ctenanthes is crisping brown edges of leaves. This is usually caused wither by too much sun or not enough moisture. Check that your plant is not getting any direct sun, that the soil is not drying out beyond the top few inches, and if necessary introduce a humidity tray to keep the local moisture level in the air higher.

Did You Know?
Ctenanthe is pronounced 'ten-ANTH-ie', with a silent C at the start!