Calathea Lancifolia 'Rattlesnake' (Goeppertia lancifolia)

A Vibrant Addition to Your Indoor Garden

The Rattlesnake Calathea, scientifically classified as Goeppertia lancifolia (formerly Calathea lancifolia), is an eye-catching tropical plant prized for its long, lance-shaped leaves adorned with dark green, wavy markings that resemble the patterns of a rattlesnake’s skin. Adding to its exotic appeal, the undersides of the leaves showcase a deep purple hue, creating a stunning contrast that enhances its visual impact. A low-maintenance, pet-friendly houseplant, this Calathea is a must-have for plant lovers seeking bold, dynamic foliage in their indoor collection.

Why Choose the Rattlesnake Calathea?

✔ Striking Leaf Patterns – Vibrant green markings on top, rich purple undersides below.
✔ Pet-Friendly & Non-Toxic – Safe for cats and dogs, unlike many common houseplants.
✔ Thrives in Low to Medium Light – Perfect for apartments, offices, or shaded indoor spaces.
✔ Interactive Movement – Leaves rise and fall with the daily light cycle.
✔ Humidity-Loving & Easy Care – Ideal for bathrooms, kitchens, or homes with moderate to high humidity.

Product Details

• Scientific Name: Goeppertia lancifolia (formerly Calathea lancifolia)
• Common Names: Rattlesnake Plant, Rattlesnake Calathea
• Family: Marantaceae (Prayer Plant family)
• Native Habitat: Brazilian rainforests
• Mature Size: Up to 30 inches tall with a bushy, upright growth habit

How to Care for Your Rattlesnake Calathea

• Light: Prefers medium to bright, indirect light; avoid direct sun to prevent leaf burn.
• Water: Maintain consistently moist soil, allowing the top inch to slightly dry before watering again. Use filtered or distilled water to prevent sensitivity to hard minerals.
• Temperature: Thrives in 65-80°F (18-27°C); avoid cold drafts and sudden temperature changes.
• Humidity: Requires 50-70% humidity; mist occasionally or use a pebble tray/humidifier.
• Soil: Prefers a peat-based, well-draining mix with slight acidity (pH 5.5-6.5).
• Fertilizer: Feed bi-weekly during spring and summer with a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10 or 20-20-20).
• Pruning: Remove brown or yellowing leaves as needed.
• Propagation: Best propagated through root division during repotting.

📌 Pro Tip: This plant benefits from bottom watering, which prevents mineral buildup and promotes deep root hydration. Read our Calathea Care Guide for expert watering techniques!

Fascinating Feature: A Plant That Moves!

The Rattlesnake Calathea belongs to the Marantaceae family, commonly called Prayer Plants due to their nyctinastic movement—a daily rhythm in which their leaves rise in the morning and fold upwards at night, resembling praying hands. This natural movement, responding to light, makes it a truly interactive and engaging houseplant.