Maranta leuconeura 'Kerchoveana' (Prayer plant)

Another variety of the Maranta prayer plant, native to the Brazilian tropical rainforests- these colourful beasts are great indoor house plants and are very versatile! They're happy in terrariums, hanging in macrame hangers or just potted up and looking lovely on a shelf. This variety have gorgeous pale green leaves with darker green patches - the leaves fold up at night, giving the nickname 'prayer plant'. Mist the leaves regularly to keep them healthy, prayer plants love humidity.

Care Difficulty: This plant has moderate care needs.

Light requirements: Maranta'sprefers partial shade, colours will fade in bright light. Keep out of direct sunlight as this will scorch the leaves.

Watering: Water when the top inch of the soil is dry. Keep soil moist but not waterlogged, overwatering this plant can cause root rot. Try using room-temperature water so as not to shock the plant. The prayer plant prefers soft water.

Humidity: Maranta's love humidity. Increase the humidity by grouping plants together, using a humidifier, misting or placing them in a kitchen or bathroom. This plant doesn't like fluctuations in temperature, and prefers temperatures around 18°c.

Toxicity: Non-toxic to humans and pets.

Feeding: Apply a liquid fertiliser as directed during the growing season (spring and summer) but reduce it in winter. Follow the instructions on the fertiliser packaging for the dilution ratio.

Repotting: Likes to be repotted every two to three years. Use a plant pot one- two sizes bigger in diameter and make sure the pot has adequate drainage holes.