Calathea Lancifolia 'Rattlesnake' Plant
Product details
| Management number | 250426018 | Release Date | 2026/09/17 | List Price | US$7.30 | Model Number | 250426018 | ||
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- Description
- Calathea 'Rattlesnake' - Rattlesnake Plant Care Guide
- FAQ/Common Issues
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Calathea Lancifolia 'Rattlesnake' Plant, also called Rattlesnake Plant, is a tropical foliage plant native to the rainforests of Brazil. It belongs to the genus Goeppertia and naturally grows on shaded, humid forest floors, which is why it adapts well to indoor life as a desk plant, bathroom plant, or houseplant. The upright growth habit and distinctive leaf pattern make it recognizable among plant lovers.
The plant produces long, lance-shaped leaves with wavy edges and dark green spots along a lighter green surface. The undersides are deep purple, creating dramatic contrast each time a leaf shifts. Those bold markings earned it the "rattlesnake" name and distinguish it visually from other Calathea varieties. Throughout the day, it raises and lowers its leaves in a natural movement called nyctinasty.
Calathea 'Rattlesnake' functions as a confirmed air purifying plant, actively filtering formaldehyde and other indoor toxins while naturally humidifying the surrounding air. It works exceptionally well in enclosed spaces like terrariums and vivariums where its love of humidity and low-light tolerance benefit the setup. This air cleaning plant is also non-toxic to cats and dogs, so it is safe to display freely in any pet household.
Move it outside in summer in a shaded, sheltered spot once temperatures stay warm. Feng shui enthusiasts value it for its upward growth energy and air-purifying qualities. Keep it away from AC units, heating vents, and cold drafts, as dry air triggers leaf yellowing and stress. It does well under standard LED office lighting and works as a clean air plant for any workspace.
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Calathea Lancifolia 'Rattlesnake' Plant grows well in bright indirect light or low light and scorches quickly in direct sun from south-facing windows.
Water it every 7-10 days during spring and summer, reducing to every 14 days in winter. It wilts slightly when soil dries out.
Calathea 'Rattlesnake' does best in a well-draining, moisture-retentive mix of peat or coco coir, perlite, and a small amount of compost.
It prefers temperatures between 65 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit and cannot tolerate frost or temperatures below 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
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Calathea 'Rattlesnake' is a moderate grower. Feed it monthly with diluted balanced liquid fertilizer during the active growing season only.
It is hardy in USDA zones 11-12, tolerating no frost and requiring temperatures above 55 degrees Fahrenheit year-round. It grows outdoors in Hawaii and the southernmost tips of Florida and California. Gardeners in most of the continental United States, including Texas, Arizona, Georgia, Louisiana, South Carolina, Alabama, Mississippi, Nevada, North Carolina, Virginia, Oregon, Washington, New York, Illinois, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Colorado, and Tennessee, grow it most successfully as an indoor plant that moves outside for summer warmth.
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Q: Is Calathea Lancifolia 'Rattlesnake' Plant pet friendly?
A: It is non-toxic to cats and dogs and safe to display freely in any pet household.
Q: Why are my leaves turning yellow?
A: Yellowing is most often caused by overwatering, low humidity, or exposure to dry air from AC or heating systems. Keep it away from vents and cold drafts.
Q: How much light does Calathea 'Rattlesnake' need?
A: It tolerates low light, making it an excellent option for spaces without windows or under office LEDs. Avoid direct sun, which scorches the foliage.
Q: Can I use this plant in a terrarium or vivarium?
A: Calathea 'Rattlesnake' is excellent for terrariums and vivariums thanks to its love of high humidity and low-light conditions. Ensure good airflow to prevent fungal issues in enclosed setups.
Q: How often should Rattlesnake Plant be watered?
A: Water every 7-10 days during the growing season and every 14 days in winter. The plant wilts slightly when it needs water.
Q: Can this plant go outside in summer?
A: Yes, move Rattlesnake Plant to a shaded, sheltered spot with high humidity and warm temperatures. Cover it from heavy rain and bring it back indoors before temperatures drop below 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
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