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Description
Ctenanthe Oppenheimiana, also known as the Never Never plant, is a popular indoor plant that is native to the tropical rainforests of Brazil. This plant is known for its beautiful foliage and unique look. It belongs to the family Marantaceae, which is a group of plants that are commonly referred to as prayer plants due to their habit of folding their leaves upwards in the evening, resembling a pair of praying hands.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Zingiberales |
| Family | Marantaceae |
| Genus | Ctenanthe |
| Species | Oppenheimiana |
Appearance
Ctenanthe Oppenheimiana has large, lance-shaped leaves that can grow up to 12 inches in length. The leaves are green with a silver-grey pattern on the upper surface and a deep purple underside. The foliage of this plant is quite unique, with a distinct feathered pattern on the leaves that makes it stand out from other plants. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and wide, making it a great statement piece in any room.
Care Guide
Ctenanthe Oppenheimiana is a relatively easy plant to care for, making it a great choice for beginners. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
Water: Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely, as this can damage the plant.
Fertilization: Feed the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing during the winter months when the plant is dormant.
Soil: Ctenanthe Oppenheimiana prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil mix that contains peat moss, perlite, and compost is ideal.
Sunlight: This plant prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves. A north-facing window is ideal.
Hardiness Zones: Ctenanthe Oppenheimiana is not frost-tolerant and should be kept indoors in most parts of the United States.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ctenanthe Oppenheimiana is relatively pest-resistant, but it can still be affected by common houseplant pests such as spider mites and mealybugs. To prevent these pests, keep the plant clean and free of debris. If the plant does become infested, treat it with an insecticidal soap or neem oil. This plant is also susceptible to fungal diseases such as root rot and leaf spot. To prevent these diseases, make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering the plant.
Habitat
Ctenanthe Oppenheimiana is native to the tropical rainforests of Brazil, where it grows on the forest floor in the shade of larger trees. The plant thrives in warm, humid environments and prefers temperatures between 60-80°F.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Ctenanthe Oppenheimiana?
A: Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely, as this can damage the plant.
Q: Can I grow Ctenanthe Oppenheimiana outdoors?
A: Ctenanthe Oppenheimiana is not frost-tolerant and should be kept indoors in most parts of the United States.
Q: How big does Ctenanthe Oppenheimiana grow?
A: The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and wide.
Q: How do I propagate Ctenanthe Oppenheimiana?
A: Ctenanthe Oppenheimiana can be propagated by division during the spring or summer months. Simply separate the plant into smaller sections, making sure each section has its own roots and foliage.
Related Plants
- Ctenanthe Burle-Marxii
- Ctenanthe Lubbersiana
- Ctenanthe Setosa
References
- “Ctenanthe Oppenheimiana Care Guide – How to Grow Never Never Plant.” Epic Gardening, 15 Sept. 2021, epicgardening.com/ctenanthe-oppenheimiana/.
- “Ctenanthe Oppenheimiana.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c988.
- “Ctenanthe Oppenheimiana.” The Spruce, 7 Sept. 2021, www.thespruce.com/ctenanthe-oppenheimiana-care-5187053.
