Calathea lancifolia, commonly known as rattlesnake plant, is an amazing houseplant that has extra-ordinary foliage. The leaves are long, narrow and wavy, like snakeskin, and have alternating white and dark green stripes. When its leaves move, the leaves gently shake which earns it its name! Rattlesnake plants are unique and hardy plants that require medium light and moist but well-drained soil. They are also non-toxic and easy to care for which make them a great houseplant for any environment. The wavy foliage will add beauty and movement to any room, making rattlesnake plants a great choice for any gardener.
Read MorePlant Care Essentials:
Plant Profile:
- Scientific Name: Calathea lancifolia
- Plant Family: Marantaceae
- Drought Tolerant: No
- Poisonous To Humans: No
- Fruits: No
- Tropical: No
- Poisonous To Pets: No
- Edible Fruit: No
Care Instructions:
- Light: The Rattlesnake Plant thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can cause the leaves to scorch and lose their vibrant patterns. It does well in areas with filtered light or in rooms with north or east-facing windows.
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry. Like other Calatheas, this plant prefers soft, filtered water to avoid leaf discoloration from chemicals found in tap water. Distilled or rainwater is ideal.
- Humidity: Calathea lancifolia loves high humidity, ideally between 60-70%. To maintain high humidity levels, mist the plant regularly, place it on a tray with water and pebbles, or use a humidifier. Low humidity can cause the leaf edges to brown and curl.
- Temperature: This plant prefers warm temperatures, ideally between 65-75°F (18-24°C). It should be protected from cold drafts and temperatures below 60°F (16°C). Also, avoid placing it near heating vents that can dry out the air.
- Soil: Use a well-draining, peat-based potting mix that retains moisture but still provides good aeration. A mix designed for tropical houseplants or a blend of potting soil, peat moss, and perlite works well.
- Fertilization: Feed with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce feeding during the fall and winter months when the plant’s growth slows down.
Additional Care Tips:
- Regularly clean the leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust and allow the plant to absorb light more effectively.
- Calathea lancifolia is prized for its long, wavy leaves with distinctive dark green markings, resembling the patterns of a rattlesnake, making it a popular choice for adding visual interest to indoor spaces.
Did You Know? 
Calathea Lancifolia, commonly known as Rattlesnake Plant, features long, wavy leaves with dark green spots and purple undersides. It thrives in bright, indirect light and well-drained, consistently moist soil. This plant is perfect for adding a touch of vibrant and exotic foliage to indoor spaces, known for its striking appearance.
Popular Questions about rattlesnake plant
Find answers to the most common queries on light, water, soil, propagation, and keeping your "rattlesnake plant" thriving indoors.
Care Guides
Santolina
Santolina is mainly indigenous in Mediterranean regions, and comprises 10 species of fragrant, low-growing, (sub-)shrubs...
Cheiranthus
Bulbs, Forget-me-nots, Primroses and Wallflowers are the low-growing heralds of spring. Millions of Wallflowers are plan...
Euphorbia Obesa
The illustrated species is native to South Africa where, however, it is now relatively rare because hundreds of specimen...
