Ctenanthe burle-marxii ‘Amagris’

Ctenanthe burle-marxii ‘Amagris’, commonly known as the Never Never Plant or Fishbone Prayer Plant, is a beautifully patterned foliage plant with soft silver-green leaves marked by sweeping dark green fishbone stripes. Rich purple leaf undersides add another layer of colour, particularly as the leaves change position throughout the day.

Supplied in a 14cm diameter nursery pot at approximately 25cm tall, ‘Amagris’ has a naturally compact, spreading habit that makes it perfect for shelves, sideboards and plant displays. It belongs to the Marantaceae family alongside Maranta, Calathea and Stromanthe.

Why Is It Called a Prayer Plant?

Like other members of the prayer plant family, Ctenanthe ‘Amagris’ displays natural daily leaf movement. Its leaves gradually change position in response to changing light levels and often lift more upright as evening approaches.

This movement, combined with the contrasting purple undersides of the foliage, means the plant can look noticeably different from morning to evening.

Light & Position

Ctenanthe ‘Amagris’ grows best in bright, indirect light, where its silver and dark green markings remain particularly crisp.

It will also tolerate medium and slightly lower light levels, making it a useful choice for rooms that are not flooded with sunshine. Avoid strong direct sunlight, which can bleach or scorch the leaves.

Watering

Keep the compost lightly and consistently moist during spring and summer, allowing the upper few centimetres to dry slightly before watering again. Always allow excess water to drain away and never leave the plant sitting in water.

Reduce watering during autumn and winter as growth slows, while avoiding letting the root ball become completely dry for prolonged periods.

Ctenanthe can be sensitive to minerals and chemicals in hard tap water. If you notice persistent brown leaf tips, using rainwater or filtered water can help.

Humidity & Temperature

‘Amagris’ appreciates moderate to higher humidity, although it can adapt to normal household conditions if kept away from very dry heat sources.

A naturally humid kitchen or bathroom can suit it well, or group it with other houseplants to create a slightly more humid microclimate. In particularly dry homes, a humidifier is more effective than frequent misting.

Keep the plant warm and away from cold draughts. Normal indoor temperatures are ideal, preferably around 18–25°C.

Feeding

Feed approximately once a month during spring and summer using a balanced liquid houseplant fertiliser at a reduced strength.

Reduce or stop feeding during autumn and winter when growth naturally slows.

Growth & Care

Ctenanthe ‘Amagris’ develops a compact, spreading clump rather than growing tall and upright. Fresh leaves emerge rolled before gradually unfurling to reveal their distinctive pattern.

Remove occasional yellow or damaged leaves by cutting them cleanly near the base. Wipe the foliage gently with a damp cloth if it becomes dusty, but avoid using leaf-shine products.

When repotting, choose a free-draining but moisture-retentive houseplant compost and move up only one pot size.

Why You'll Love It

• Beautiful silver-green foliage with dark green fishbone markings
• Rich purple leaf undersides
• Leaves naturally move between day and night
• Compact, spreading growth habit
• Tolerates medium and moderately low light
• Brilliant for shelves, sideboards and smaller spaces
• Generally considered pet friendly

Pet & Child Safety

Ctenanthe and other members of the prayer plant family are generally regarded as non-toxic to cats and dogs, making ‘Amagris’ a good choice for pet-friendly homes. As with any houseplant, we still recommend discouraging pets and young children from chewing the foliage.

Plant Details

Botanical Name: Ctenanthe burle-marxii ‘Amagris’
Common Names: Never Never Plant / Fishbone Prayer Plant
Family: Marantaceae
Nursery Pot Size: 14cm diameter
Approximate Height: Around 25cm
Fits Decorative Pot Size: 16cm+
Growth Habit: Compact / spreading / clump-forming
Position: Bright to medium indirect light
Pet Friendly: Generally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs

Please note: As this is a living plant, the exact height, fullness, leaf markings and colouring will naturally vary. Decorative pots shown in photos are not included. This plant is supplied in a plastic nursery pot.