Ctenanthe lubbersiana aka Never Never Plant
Taxonomy ID: 282
Ctenanthe lubbersiana, also known as the bamburanta, is a species of flowering plant in the genus Ctenanthe. Native to tropical Brazil, it belongs to the Marantaceae family and is closely related to the calathea and prayer plant. This evergreen perennial is primarily grown for its stunning and colorful leaves. It has gained recognition from the Royal Horticultural Society, receiving the Award of Garden Merit as a subtropical hothouse ornamental.
Growing up to 2 meters in height, Ctenanthe lubbersiana features branched stems that bear oblong deep green leaves, which are beautifully mottled and streaked with yellow on the upper surface and paler below. It is one of the three Ctenanthe species that make excellent houseplants, alongside C. oppenheimiana and C. burle-marxii.
Ctenanthe oppenheimiana, also called the 'Never Never Plant,' can reach a height of 3 feet and produces lance-shaped leaves that are dark green with silver bands. Its foliage showcases maroon undersides, and the Tricolor variety of C. oppenheimiana offers even more vibrant colors. On the other hand, C. burle-marxii is a smaller and more compact plant, featuring silver-gray elliptical leaves with green stripes.
While these Ctenanthe plants are visually appealing, they require a bit more care and attention. They are considered mildly poisonous, although often listed as non-toxic. It is important to note that they may cause individual allergic reactions and should be kept away from pets and children.
Common names
Never Never Plant, Never NeverMore information about Never Never Plant
How difficult is it to take care of Never Never Plant
If you're looking for a plant that offers a moderate level of challenge, Never Never Plant is a great choice to test your gardening skills.
What is the region of origin of Never Never Plant
Never Never Plant’s native range is Central and South America.
What are the water needs for Never Never Plant
Never Never Plant should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
What is the right soil for Never Never Plant
Never Never Plant loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
What is the sunlight requirement for Never Never Plant
To ensure optimal growth, the Never Never Plant prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
What's the right humidity for Never Never Plant
The Never Never Plant does not need extra humidity. Plants primarily absorb water through their root system, making soil watering the best way to provide humidity to your plants.
How to fertilize Never Never Plant
The Never Never Plant should be repotted when it has doubled in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing fresh potting soil with all the essential nutrients each year ensures the plant's well-being, eliminating the need for fertilizer. Remember, plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.
Is Never Never Plant toxic to humans/pets?
Never Never Plant is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.
What is the growth pattern of Never Never Plant
New growth will sprout from the top of the Never Never Plant as it grows vertically.
Is Never Never Plant flowering?
Yes, if you provide your Never Never Plant with adequate sunlight and water, you can expect it to bloom.
More info:
Wikipedia
