Calathea Lancifolia 'Rattlesnake'

The Rattlesnake Calathea, renowned for its striking foliage and unique patterns, is an exceptional choice for any indoor plant collection. This plant features long, lance-shaped leaves with dark green markings that resemble the intricate patterns of a rattlesnake's skin, adding a touch of the exotic to your home. The underside of the leaves displays a rich purple hue, offering a beautiful contrast that enhances its visual appeal. Ideal for plant enthusiasts seeking to elevate their indoor garden, the Rattlesnake Calathea stands out with its dynamic and eye-catching appearance.

Ed's Plant Profile:

• Botanical Name: Calathea Lancifolia
• Common Names: Rattlesnake, Prayer Plant
• Family: Marantaceae
• Native Range: Brazil

Ed's Care Guide:

• Light Preference: Flourishes in medium to bright, indirect light; tolerant of lower light levels but avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf scorching and color fading.
• Watering Frequency: Requires high moisture levels; maintain evenly moist, well-drained soil, allowing the surface to slightly dry between watering sessions. Opt for filtered tap water or rainwater to prevent sensitivity to hard water or additives.
• Humidity Preference: Thrives in high humidity environments.
• Temperature: Prefers warmth within the range of 60-85°F.
• Soil Type: Flourishes in regular potting mix or peaty mix with slightly acidic, airy, and well-draining properties.
• Pruning: Trim as needed to eliminate brown or dead foliage.
• Feeding: Fertilize every couple of weeks with a diluted balanced fertilizer during the growing seasons of spring and summer.
• Propagation: Propagate through root division.
• Growth Habit: Exhibits an upright, bushy growth pattern, reaching heights of up to 2 feet; generally benefits from repotting every two years.
• Toxicity: Non-toxic to humans and pets; exercise caution with children and pets around all plants.

Caring for your Rattlesnake Calathea is straightforward with a few essential tips. This plant thrives in medium to low indirect light, making it perfect for spaces that don't receive direct sunlight. It prefers consistently moist soil, so regular watering is key, but be careful not to let the plant sit in water to avoid root rot. Additionally, maintaining high humidity levels will help keep its foliage vibrant and healthy; consider placing it in a bathroom or near a humidifier. With these care tips, your Rattlesnake Calathea will flourish, bringing a lush, tropical feel to your home.