Ctenanthe oppenheimiana aka Never Never Plant
Taxonomy ID: 277
Ctenanthe oppenheimiana, commonly known as the giant bamburanta or never-never plant, is an evergreen perennial of the Marantaceae family native to Brazil. This stunning, fast-growing houseplant has long, almost vertical, leafstalks and large, pointed elliptical leaves up to 12in/30cm in length. The upper sides of the leaves boast dark green bands merging into cream colored bands with red tinges. The undersides of the leaves have a red-ish hue. The cultivar 'Tricolor' is a particularly popular ornamental variety, and is often confused with Stromanthe Sanguinea 'Triostar'. The Royal Horticultural Society has awarded it their Award of Garden Merit (confirmed 2017). Ctenanthe enjoys average room temperatures and requires soil that is well draining and moderate sunlight. Water your plant regularly, and make sure not to overwater: if you repot each time it doubles in size, it shouldn't need added fertilizers. As this plant is not edible and potentially harmful if ingested, it is best to keep it out of reach of children, cats, and dogs.
Common names
Never Never Plant, Tiger Stripe, Pilosa, Prayer PlantMore information about Never Never Plant
How difficult is it to take care of Never Never Plant
With its straightforward care requirements, Never Never Plant is a hassle-free plant that anyone can enjoy.
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
No extra humidity is necessary for the Never Never Plant. Absorption of water by plants is primarily done through their roots, and soil watering is the most effective method to provide humidity to your plants.
How to fertilize Never Never Plant
Repotting the Never Never Plant should be done either when it has doubled in size or on a yearly basis, whichever occurs sooner. Fresh potting soil with all the required nutrients, refreshed annually, will provide the plant with all the necessary sustenance, making the use of fertilizer unnecessary. Keep in mind that plants receive their energy from the sun, 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
