Rattlesnake Plant Care Guide
The Calathea lancifolia, better known as a Rattlesnake Plant, is a popular houseplant known for its striking foliage. Their long, narrow leaves feature patterns of dark green and bright green stripes, giving them a unique appearance. Rattlesnake plants are easy houseplants to care for and can thrive indoors with minimal effort, making them a great choice for those looking for a low-maintenance addition to their growing houseplant collection!
4 tips on Rattlesnake Plant Care (especially #1)
When you’re first getting acquainted with caring for rattlesnake plants, these five tips are good guides to success.
Pay Attention to Watering Habits
Rattlesnake plants prefer to be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. It's important to allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again, as overwatering can lead to root rot. In general, Rattlesnake plants require less frequent watering in the winter months when their growth slows down. To ensure proper drainage, make sure your plant is in a well-draining pot, and never let it sit in standing water.
Bright, Indirect Light
Your plant will enjoy a medium amount of light and prefer the light it does get to be bright, yet indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can scorch their leaves and cause discoloration. Place them near a north or east-facing window or provide filtered light if natural light is limited. If the leaves start to curl or the plant is growing slowly, it may need more light.
Tips on Humidity and Temperature
They prefer a humid environment and can be sensitive to dry air. To increase the humidity around the plant, mist the leaves regularly or place it on a tray of pebbles and water. They also prefer temperatures between 60-75°F and can be sensitive to sudden temperature changes. Avoid placing your rattlesnake plant near any cold drafts or hot air vents.
Easy to Propagate
Rattlesnake plants can be propagated through division or stem cuttings. To propagate through division, carefully remove the plant from its pot and gently separate the roots into two or more sections. Repot each section into its own container with fresh soil. To propagate through stem cuttings, take a cutting from the plant's stem and place it in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and provide bright, indirect light until the cutting has established roots.
Did you Know?
Rattlesnake plants are native to Brazil and are part of the Marantaceae family, which also includes the Prayer Plant. As part of its natural growth process, the plant’s leaves fold up at night and resemble praying hands!
These amazing plants are also known for their air-purifying properties and can help improve indoor air quality. They are also non-toxic to pets and children, making them a safe choice for households with animals or young children.
