The “tiger plant,” Goeppertia lancifolia, also known as the Rattlesnake Plant, is a tropical perennial. Originating from Brazil’s rainforests, it thrives in warm, moist, shaded environments. This plant is cultivated for its striking foliage, featuring long, lance-shaped leaves with wavy margins. The upper surface displays dark green blotches on a lighter background, while the underside is a vibrant purplish-red. Its leaves also exhibit nyctinasty, folding upwards at night and unfurling during the day.
Key Environmental Factors
The tiger plant thrives in bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch leaves and fade patterns, so place it near a north-facing window or a few feet from an east or west-facing window with diffused light. Signs of inadequate light include fading leaf patterns, while scorched leaves indicate too much direct sun.
Maintain temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C). Sudden fluctuations, cold drafts, or temperatures below 60°F (15°C) stress the plant, causing drooping or yellowing leaves. Avoid drafts and sudden temperature changes.
High humidity is necessary for Goeppertia lancifolia. Low humidity causes leaf edges to curl or turn brown. Increase humidity by placing the plant on a pebble tray, using a room humidifier, or grouping it with other plants. Misting is generally not recommended as it can promote fungal issues.
Watering and Feeding
Consistent moisture is necessary for the tiger plant, but avoid waterlogging. Water when the top inch or two of soil feels slightly dry. Overwatering leads to root rot, while complete drying causes brown, crispy leaf edges.
This plant is sensitive to salts and additives in tap water, which can cause browning leaf tips. Use filtered, distilled, or rainwater. Ensure excess water drains away and the pot does not sit in standing water.
During the growing season, fertilize monthly with a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer. Dilute the fertilizer to half strength to prevent over-fertilization. Reduce or cease fertilization during the dormant fall and winter months.
Soil and Repotting
The tiger plant thrives in a well-draining, airy, and moisture-retentive soil mix. A suitable blend includes peat moss, perlite, and bark.
Repot every one to two years, or when the plant becomes root-bound. The best time for repotting is during spring or early summer. Choose a pot only 1-2 inches larger than the current one, ensuring it has drainage holes. Gently handle roots and water thoroughly after repotting.
Common Problems and Solutions
Browning leaf tips or edges are common. Increase humidity and use filtered or distilled water. Curling leaves indicate underwatering or insufficient humidity.
Fading leaf patterns signal too much light; move the plant to bright, indirect light to restore its vibrant coloring. Yellowing leaves can result from either overwatering or the soil becoming too dry.
Tiger plants can be affected by common houseplant pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. Inspect the undersides of leaves regularly for early detection. Address pests by wiping them off with a damp cloth or using insecticidal soap or neem oil. Overwatering can also lead to fungal leaf spots and root rot, so proper watering practices are preventative.
Propagation
Propagation is most commonly done through division. Perform this process during repotting, ideally in spring or early summer. Gently separate the plant’s rhizomes, ensuring each new section has a portion of the root system and at least 2-3 leaves.
After dividing, plant each new section into its own pot with fresh, well-draining potting mix. Water thoroughly. Place new plants in a warm, humid location with indirect light, in conditions similar to the mature plant for establishment.