Ctenanthe lubbersiana aka Never Never Plant

Ctenanthe lubbersiana comes from the tropical forests of Brazil. It stays green all year and lives for many years. Its native range covers the south and southeast of Brazil. Kew records it in Minas Gerais and Santa Catarina. It belongs to the prayer plant family, Marantaceae. People call it bamburanta or never-never plant. Gardeners grow it mainly for the patterns on its leaves. It suits pots, greenhouses, and conservatories. Its leaves add a point of interest to plant displays.

The plant grows in upright clumps, with some stems arching. Its branched stems grow above ground and look like bamboo canes. It also grows from rhizomes, which are underground stems. NC State gives houseplant heights of 2–3 feet (0.6–0.9 metres). It lists a spread of 3–4 feet (0.9–1.2 metres). RHS gives heights of 4.9–8.2 feet (1.5–2.5 metres). Its listed spread reaches 3.3 feet (1 metre). Plants in native forests reach almost 6 feet (1.8 metres). These ranges differ because the sources describe different growing settings.

The smooth leaves grow one at a time along the stems. Each leaf has one blade, with plain edges. The leaves may be narrow or oblong in shape. Their dark green tops have cream or yellow marks. The lower sides are a lighter green. NC State gives leaf lengths of about 0.5 feet (0.15 metres). RHS lists lengths of up to 1 foot (0.3 metres). The leaves fold each evening and open again by morning. Small white flowers shaped like tubes grow in short groups. RHS reports blooms at times throughout the year. Chicago Botanic Garden lists blooms from March to December. NC State says plants rarely bloom indoors.

Grow it in bright light, but keep out direct sun. Strong sun can scorch its leaves. Use moist potting compost that drains well. NC State suggests mixes rich in humus, with bark and perlite. Water when the top inch feels dry. Keep the compost moist in winter as well. The plant needs medium to high humidity and steady warmth. NC State advises 60–85°F and shelter from drafts. RHS rates it H1B; Chicago lists USDA zones 11–13. Feed once a month while the plant grows. Divide plants in spring. RHS advises repotting each year and says it needs no pruning.

RHS and NC State both report few disease problems. Mealybugs can attack the plant. NC State also lists mites and aphids as pests. Salts in tap water can burn leaves or cause spots. NC State advises using filtered or distilled water. Too little water can make the leaves curl or wilt.