The Rattlesnake Plant (Goeppertia insignis, formerly Calathea lancifolia), a popular houseplant, is known for its striking foliage and unique leaf movements. Native to Brazilian rainforests, this tropical perennial adds vibrant greenery to indoor spaces. It typically reaches 9 to 20 inches tall, making it suitable for various indoor settings.
Distinctive Features
The Rattlesnake Plant’s visual appeal comes from its unique leaves. Lance-shaped, they display a pattern of dark green splotches resembling a rattlesnake’s skin against a lighter green background. The undersides are a rich, vibrant purple.
Beyond their striking coloration, the leaves exhibit nyctinasty. During the day, they unfurl to capture light; in the evening, they fold upwards, resembling praying hands. This movement, common in the Marantaceae family, contributes to its nickname, “prayer plant.”
Rattlesnake Plant Care
Caring for a Rattlesnake Plant involves mimicking its native rainforest environment. Providing the right balance of light, water, humidity, and nutrients is important for its health and growth.
Light
Rattlesnake Plants thrive in bright, indirect light. They prefer diffused sunlight, similar to what they would receive on the rainforest floor. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the delicate leaves and fade their patterns. Place them near a north or east-facing window for ample, non-harsh light.
Watering
Maintain consistent soil moisture, but avoid waterlogging. Keep the soil evenly moist during the growing season (spring through summer). Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry slightly before rewatering. Using filtered, distilled, or rainwater is recommended, as these plants are sensitive to minerals and chemicals often found in tap water, which can lead to browning leaf tips.
Humidity and Temperature
Rattlesnake Plants prefer high humidity, ideally above 60%, reflecting their tropical origins. Low humidity can cause leaf edges to brown or curl. Increase humidity by placing the plant on a pebble tray, grouping it with other plants, or using a humidifier. They prefer stable warm temperatures, between 65°F and 75°F (18°C to 24°C). Avoid sudden temperature drops or cold drafts, which can stress the plant.
Soil and Fertilizer
A well-draining yet moisture-retentive potting mix is suitable for Rattlesnake Plants. A mix containing peat moss, perlite, or compost provides aeration and moisture retention without becoming overly soggy. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent water accumulation and root rot. During the active growing season (spring and summer), apply a balanced liquid fertilizer monthly, diluted to half strength. Water the plant thoroughly before fertilizing to minimize the risk of root damage.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Rattlesnake Plants can exhibit specific symptoms when their environmental conditions are not ideal. Brown leaf tips or edges often indicate insufficient humidity or sensitivity to minerals in tap water. Increasing the surrounding humidity or switching to filtered water can alleviate these issues.
Curling leaves can be a sign of underwatering or low humidity, as the plant attempts to conserve moisture. Consistent watering and humidity adjustments can help resolve this. Faded leaf patterns or a loss of vibrant coloration may suggest that the plant is receiving too much direct sunlight. Moving the plant to a location with bright, indirect light can help restore its characteristic markings.
Pest infestations, while less common, can occur. Spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids are potential culprits, often found on the undersides of leaves. Regular inspection and prompt treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil can manage these pests effectively. Overwatering can lead to yellowing leaves or soft, mushy stems, indicating potential root rot. Allowing the soil to dry adequately between waterings and ensuring proper drainage are crucial preventative measures.
Repotting and Propagation
Repotting a Rattlesnake Plant is generally recommended every one to two years, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Spring is an ideal time for repotting, as the plant is entering its active growth phase. When repotting, select a pot that is only slightly larger than the previous one and ensure it has sufficient drainage holes.
Propagation of Rattlesnake Plants is most successfully achieved through division. This involves carefully removing the plant from its pot and gently separating sections of the root ball where natural divisions exist. Each separated section should have its own roots and a portion of the foliage. These divisions can then be planted in their own pots with fresh, well-draining potting mix.
Pet Safety
The Rattlesnake Plant (Goeppertia insignis) is considered non-toxic to common household pets, including cats and dogs. This makes it a suitable choice for homes with animals, providing peace of mind for pet owners. While ingesting small amounts is generally not harmful, consuming large quantities of any plant material can potentially lead to mild digestive upset in pets.