Besides colorful stripes on leaves to mimic painting, one more thing about Prayer Plant at night makes it stand out among houseplants.
Although many assumptions about the Prayer Plant leaves rolling up at night exist, these phenomena have several advantages.
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Do All Prayer Plants Always Close At Night?
Prayer Plant is priced for its velvety trichromatic leaves with pale splotches down the midrib and arching veins along the margin.
However, with the onset of the sunlight, the leaves gradually open and continue their photosynthesis process.
Prayer Plant at Night Vs. Day
The Prayer Plant looks more active as it rises in the evening while lowering during the day makes it appear droopy.
However, the Prayer Plant expands the leaves to allow more surface area for light and its biological process.
Also, the leaves’ aesthetic, vibrant patterns and color are more visible during the day.
Further, the Prayer Plant’s leaf motion during sunrise and sunlight is more visible.
But Maranta foliage keeps adjusting its foliage throughout the day, so it looks like moving.
Here is a timelapse of Prayer Plant for a clear understanding.
Why Does My Prayer Plant Close At Night?
Many people worry, mistaking the folding of Prayer Plant leaves as curling at night.
Instead, it is the natural phenomenon of the plant controlled by the special part called a pulvinus, located at the base of leaves.
While there is no solid reason for Prayer Plants to fold their leaves, the minimized surface area helps the plant prevent water loss and evaporation.
Even if there are water droplets, which might be a potential threat for fungal infection, the leaf drops the water while folding in.
Further, the plant might adapt to protect itself from the cold and temperature differences.
Also, the closed foliage makes it less likely for pests to enter and damage the leaves, allowing you to enjoy the Prayer Plant benefits for a long time.
Note: The closing of the Prayer Plant depends on the factors like light intensity, temperature, and overall plant health as well.
That said, if the plant starts curling during the day, it signifies its deteriorating health.
Improper watering schedule, nutrient deficiency, and excess humidity could be the problems taking on the health of your Prayer Plant.
But needless to worry! Revive your Prayer Plant with regular watering, well-balanced fertilizer, and a humidifier in case you need it.
From Editorial Team
Avoid Excessive Sunlight!
Too much sunlight can tend to burn the edges of the Prayer Plant leaves, turning them brown.
Ensure you place the plant under indirect sunlight to prevent the plant from wilting and drying.
