Rattlesnake Plant

Overview

The Rattlesnake Plant (Calathea lancifolia), also known as Rattlesnake Calathea, is a striking tropical perennial native to the rainforests of Brazil. This member of the Marantaceae family has earned its common name from its distinctive elongated leaves with wavy edges and dark green spots that resemble the pattern of a rattlesnake's skin.

The most captivating feature of the Rattlesnake Plant is its foliage. Long, narrow leaves grow upward from a central rosette, displaying a vibrant light green background adorned with dark green oval spots. The undersides of the leaves reveal a rich purple-red color, adding another dimension to the plant's ornamental value. The wavy, rippled leaf margins create a dynamic, textural quality that sets this Calathea apart from many of its relatives.

Like other members of the prayer plant family, the Rattlesnake Plant exhibits nyctinasty—a daily movement where leaves rise upward in the evening and lower during the day in response to light changes. This fascinating behavior, often called "praying," occurs as the plant's leaves fold upward at night as if in prayer, then open again with the morning light.

Rattlesnake Plants typically grow to about 24-30 inches tall and 12-18 inches wide, forming an attractive clump of patterned foliage. While they can produce small, inconspicuous white flowers on short stems, they're grown almost exclusively for their spectacular foliage rather than their blooms.

As tropical understory plants, Rattlesnake Plants prefer conditions that mimic their natural habitat: filtered light, high humidity, and consistently moist (but not soggy) soil. While they require more specific care than some houseplants, their extraordinary beauty and interesting leaf movements make them worth the extra attention for many plant enthusiasts.

With their eye-catching patterns, fascinating movements, and non-toxic nature, Rattlesnake Plants make excellent houseplants for those willing to provide the humidity and consistent care they require. Their moderate size makes them perfect for tabletops, plant stands, or anywhere their detailed patterns can be appreciated up close.

Care Guide

Light Requirements

Rattlesnake Plants need adequate light to maintain their vibrant patterns, but must be protected from direct sunlight:

• Bright indirect light: Ideal for maintaining vibrant leaf patterns and colors
• Medium light: Will grow well but may develop less intense coloration
• Low light: Can survive but growth will slow and patterns may fade
• Direct sunlight: Avoid as it can scorch the delicate leaves and fade colors

For optimal growth and the most vibrant leaf patterns, place your Rattlesnake Plant near an east or north-facing window where it will receive bright, filtered light throughout the day. If placed near a south or west-facing window, ensure the plant is positioned several feet away from the window or protected by a sheer curtain to filter the intense direct sunlight.

The light requirements of Rattlesnake Plants directly affect the vibrancy of their distinctive patterning. Insufficient light causes patterns to become less pronounced, while too much direct light can burn the leaves and bleach the colors. Finding the right balance is key to maintaining the plant's ornamental value.

Light also plays a crucial role in the plant's nyctinastic movements (the daily raising and lowering of leaves). Without proper light cues and day/night cycles, these characteristic movements may diminish or stop altogether.

Watering

Proper watering is crucial for Rattlesnake Plants, as they prefer consistently moist soil without becoming waterlogged:

Watering Schedule:

• Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy
• Typically water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch
• Usually requires watering every 5-7 days, depending on your home's conditions
• Reduce frequency slightly in winter when growth slows
• Increase during hot, dry periods when soil dries more quickly

Watering Technique:

• Water thoroughly until it flows from the drainage holes
• Empty the saucer to prevent the plant from sitting in water
• Water the soil directly, avoiding wetting the leaves when possible
• Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots

Water Quality:

• Rattlesnake Plants are sensitive to chemicals in tap water
• Fluoride and chlorine can cause leaf browning and curling
• If possible, use rainwater, distilled water, or filtered water
• If using tap water, let it sit out overnight to allow chlorine to dissipate

Rattlesnake Plants communicate their watering needs through their leaves. Drooping or curling indicates underwatering, while yellowing leaves often signal overwatering. The plant prefers consistent moisture but is susceptible to root rot if kept too wet.

Finding the right watering balance can be one of the trickier aspects of Rattlesnake Plant care. When in doubt, it's generally better to err slightly on the drier side than to overwater, as these plants can recover more easily from slight underwatering than from root rot caused by overwatering.

Soil

Rattlesnake Plants thrive in rich, well-draining soil that retains some moisture:

Ideal Soil Mix:

• 2 parts standard potting soil
• 1 part perlite or pumice
• 1 part coco coir or peat moss
• Optional: Add a small handful of orchid bark for additional aeration

This combination creates a light, airy mix that holds moisture while still allowing excess water to drain away quickly. The addition of perlite or pumice helps create air pockets in the soil, promoting healthy root development and preventing compaction.

Container Considerations:

• Always use pots with drainage holes
• Plastic or glazed ceramic pots retain moisture better than terracotta
• Consider the mature size when selecting a container—most Rattlesnake Plants stay relatively compact
• A pot that's proportional to the plant's size works best—too large a pot can lead to overwatering issues

Repot your Rattlesnake Plant every 1-2 years, or when it has clearly outgrown its container. The best time to repot is in spring during the active growing season. When repotting, handle the plant gently to avoid damaging the roots and position it at the same depth it was previously growing.

These plants don't mind being slightly root-bound, so don't rush to repot them into much larger containers. When repotting, choose a pot that's only 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.

Temperature & Humidity

As tropical plants, Rattlesnake Plants have specific temperature and humidity preferences:

Temperature:

• Ideal range: 65-80°F (18-27°C)
• Minimum temperature: 60°F (15°C)
• Will suffer damage below 55°F (13°C)
• Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations
• Keep away from cold drafts, heating vents, and air conditioners

Humidity:

• Prefers high humidity (50-70%)
• Will struggle in dry environments below 40% humidity
• Increase humidity through these methods:
  • Use a humidifier near the plant (most effective method)
  • Place on a humidity tray (pebble tray with water)
  • Group with other plants to create a microclimate
  • Mist occasionally, though this provides only temporary relief
  • Place in naturally humid rooms like bathrooms (if adequate light is available)

Humidity is absolutely crucial for Rattlesnake Plants. In low humidity, leaves may develop brown edges and tips, curl, or fail to unfurl properly. The plant also becomes more susceptible to pest infestations, particularly spider mites. If you notice these signs, take immediate steps to increase humidity around your plant.

While Rattlesnake Plants can adapt to normal household temperatures, they're sensitive to cold drafts and sudden temperature changes. During winter, be especially mindful of keeping them away from cold windows and doors. Similarly, avoid placing them near heating vents, which can create hot, dry conditions that stress these humidity-loving plants.

Fertilizing

Rattlesnake Plants benefit from regular but moderate fertilization to support healthy growth and vibrant coloration:

Fertilizing Schedule:

• Apply a balanced, water-soluble houseplant fertilizer diluted to half the recommended strength
• Fertilize once a month during spring and summer (active growth period)
• Reduce to once every 2-3 months in fall
• Do not fertilize in winter when growth naturally slows
• Resume regular fertilizing in spring when new growth appears

Fertilizing Tips:

• Use a balanced formula (such as 10-10-10) or one specifically formulated for foliage plants
• Liquid fertilizers are easier to control and less likely to cause fertilizer burn
• Always apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn
• Flush the soil thoroughly with water every few months to prevent salt buildup

Rattlesnake Plants are moderate feeders and can be sensitive to over-fertilization, which can cause leaf burn, brown leaf tips, or salt buildup in the soil. Signs of over-fertilization include brown or black spots on leaves, especially near the edges, and a white crust on the soil surface.

Under-fertilization typically manifests as smaller leaves, less vibrant coloration, and slower growth. Finding the right balance of nutrients is important for maintaining the plant's ornamental value and supporting healthy growth.

Propagation

Rattlesnake Plants are primarily propagated through division, as they don't root readily from leaf cuttings:

Division Propagation:

1. Division is best done during repotting in spring
2. Remove the plant from its pot and gently shake off excess soil
3. Look for natural divisions in the root ball where multiple stems emerge
4. Using clean, sharp scissors or a knife, carefully separate the clumps, ensuring each division has both stems and roots
5. Plant each division in its own pot with fresh soil mix
6. Water thoroughly and place in bright, indirect light
7. Keep soil consistently moist and humidity high during the establishment period
8. Avoid fertilizing for at least a month after division

Important Propagation Tips:

• The best time to propagate is during spring or early summer when growth is most active
• Maintain high humidity around new divisions
• Avoid direct sunlight, which can stress new plants
• Be patient—while roots may establish relatively quickly, it can take several months for new plants to show significant growth
• Expect some leaf curling or drooping initially, which is normal as the plant adjusts

Division is the most reliable method for propagating Rattlesnake Plants. Unlike some other houseplants, they cannot be propagated from leaf cuttings, as individual leaves will not develop new growth points.

When dividing, aim to create sections with at least 2-3 leaves and a good portion of the root system. This ensures that each new plant has enough energy reserves to recover from the division process and establish itself successfully.

Common Problems

While Rattlesnake Plants are generally resilient when their humidity and watering needs are met, they can experience several common issues:

Brown Leaf Tips and Edges:

• Cause: Low humidity, underwatering, tap water sensitivity, or fertilizer buildup
• Solution: Increase humidity, adjust watering schedule, switch to filtered water, and flush soil occasionally to remove mineral buildup

Curling Leaves:

• Cause: Low humidity, underwatering, or exposure to drafts
• Solution: Increase humidity, maintain consistent moisture, and protect from temperature fluctuations

Yellowing Leaves:

• Cause: Overwatering is the most common cause, though normal aging of older leaves also produces yellowing
• Solution: Reduce watering frequency, ensure proper drainage, and remove only completely yellow leaves

Fading Leaf Patterns:

• Cause: Insufficient light or aging leaves
• Solution: Move to a brighter location (still avoiding direct sun)

Leaf Not Unfurling:

• Cause: Low humidity or underwatering
• Solution: Increase humidity significantly and ensure consistent soil moisture

Reduced or Stopped Leaf Movement:

• Cause: Environmental stress, typically from improper light, humidity, or watering
• Solution: Ensure proper light with clear day/night cycles, increase humidity, and maintain consistent watering

Pests:

• Spider Mites: Tiny pests that cause stippling on leaves and fine webbing, particularly in dry conditions
• Mealybugs: White, cotton-like clusters in leaf joints and on stems
• Scale: Small brown bumps on stems and leaves that don't scrape off easily
• Solution: Increase humidity (for spider mites), wipe leaves with insecticidal soap or neem oil, isolate affected plants

Root Rot:

• Cause: Overwatering, poor drainage, or compacted soil
• Symptoms: Wilting despite moist soil, yellowing leaves, mushy stems, foul smell
• Solution: Reduce watering, ensure proper drainage, and in severe cases, remove affected roots and repot in fresh soil

Most Rattlesnake Plant problems can be prevented with proper care focused on appropriate light, consistent moisture without overwatering, and adequate humidity. Regular inspection helps catch issues early when they're easier to address.

Popular Varieties

While the Rattlesnake Plant (Calathea lancifolia) is a distinct species with its characteristic elongated, wavy-edged leaves with dark spots, there are many other Calathea species and varieties that share similar care requirements:

Calathea orbifolia

• Large, round leaves with prominent silver and green striping
• Broader leaves than the Rattlesnake Plant
• More subdued pattern but equally striking
• Tends to grow wider rather than taller
• Requires similar care to the Rattlesnake Plant

Calathea makoyana (Peacock Plant)

• Oval leaves with a pattern resembling peacock feathers
• Light green background with dark green ovals and margins
• Purple undersides to the leaves
• More compact than some other Calatheas
• Particularly sensitive to low humidity

Calathea zebrina (Zebra Plant)

• Broad, oval leaves with bold zebra-like striping
• Dark green stripes on a lighter green background
• Velvety leaf texture
• Larger and more upright than the Rattlesnake Plant
• Makes a dramatic statement plant

Calathea roseopicta 'Medallion'

• Round leaves with a medallion-like pattern
• Dark green outer edge, silver-green middle zone, and dark green center
• Purple undersides
• Compact, bushy growth habit
• One of the more commonly available Calatheas

Calathea warscewiczii (Velvet Calathea)

• Elongated leaves with a velvety texture
• Dark green with lighter feather-like pattern
• Distinctive purple undersides
• More upright growth habit
• Requires very high humidity

Calathea ornata (Pinstripe Calathea)

• Glossy, dark green leaves with thin pink or white pinstripes
• More elongated leaf shape
• Less wavy edges than the Rattlesnake Plant
• Striking contrast between dark background and bright stripes
• Particularly sensitive to water quality

Calathea crocata (Eternal Flame)

• Unique among Calatheas for its showy orange flowers
• Dark green, lightly patterned leaves
• More compact growth habit
• Grown for both foliage and flowers
• Requires similar care to other Calatheas

Calathea rufibarba (Velvet Calathea)

• Long, narrow leaves with wavy edges
• Solid green on top with no pattern
• Distinctive velvety texture
• Purple-red undersides
• Fuzzy to the touch

Calathea 'White Fusion'

• Variegated leaves with white, green, and lilac coloration
• Highly sought after for its unique coloration
• More challenging to maintain than some other varieties
• Requires very consistent care
• Particularly sensitive to light conditions

Goeppertia kegeljanii 'Network' (formerly Calathea musaica)

• Unique tile-like or mosaic pattern
• Small, intricate green lines on a lighter background
• More compact than many other Calatheas
• Distinctive pattern unlike any other variety
• Recently reclassified from Calathea to Goeppertia

While these plants are all in the same family and share similar care requirements, each has its own unique appearance and specific preferences. Collectors often enjoy gathering different varieties to appreciate the incredible diversity of patterns and colors within the Calathea genus.

With their striking patterns, fascinating leaf movements, and tropical appearance, Calatheas including the Rattlesnake Plant make excellent houseplants for those willing to provide the humidity and consistent care they require. Their moderate size and extraordinary foliage make them perfect statement plants for indoor spaces.