Rattlesnake Plant Care: Keep Your Calathea Healthy

Growing houseplants is a great way to improve the aesthetic appeal of the indoor environment. Caring for these plants is a useful, calming activity that can help with mental health. The Rattlesnake plant is one example.

It is easy to care for, grows from rhizomes, and matures in about two to three years. Like other indoor plants, it helps to clean the air naturally. Growcycle provides simple guides on how to care for these plants. People can also learn about supplements that keep the plants healthy and vibrant.

History and Origin of Rattlesnake Plant

The Rattlesnake plant, scientifically known as Calathea lancifolia, originates from the tropical rainforests of Brazil. It belongs to the Marantaceae family, commonly referred to as the "prayer plant" family, due to its leaves' unique movement in response to light.

Native to warm and humid environments, the Rattlesnake plant thrives under the canopy of larger trees, where it enjoys indirect sunlight and consistent moisture. Its striking foliage, featuring wavy green leaves with dark purple undersides and decorative patterns resembling a rattlesnake's skin, makes it a popular choice for indoor gardening worldwide.

The plant has long been valued for its ornamental beauty and air-purifying qualities. It has become a symbol of exotic elegance, often associated with bringing tropical charm and serenity to indoor spaces.

Botanical Features

The Rattlesnake plant is known for its striking appearance and unique botanical features:

1. Leaves

• Shape and Size: The leaves are long, lance-shaped, and wavy along the edges.
• Coloration: The upper side of the leaves displays light and dark green patterns resembling a rattlesnake's skin, while the underside is a rich, deep purple.
• Movement: Like other members of the prayer plant family, the leaves exhibit nyctinasty, folding upward at night and lowering during the day in response to light.

2. Growth Habit

• Height: The plant typically grows to about 2 to 3 feet tall.
• Spread: It forms clumps as it matures, creating a bushy appearance.
• Propagation: The plant spreads through rhizomes, which are horizontal underground stems.

3. Flowers

• Blooming: While grown indoors, flowering is rare. The Rattlesnake plant produces small, inconspicuous yellow or white flowers on short stems in its natural habitat.

4. Root System

• Rhizomes: The plant develops a robust rhizome system that stores nutrients and supports new growth.

5. Preferred Conditions

• The plant thrives in warm, humid environments with indirect light, mimicking its natural rainforest habitat. It prefers well-draining soil and consistent moisture.

Benefits of Rattlesnake Plants

The Rattlesnake plant offers a variety of benefits, making it a popular choice for indoor gardening:

• Aesthetic Appeal

The Rattlesnake plant is a beautiful indoor plant with eye-catching green and purple leaves. Its unique patterns and upright growth make it a perfect choice for decorating homes or offices. The plant adds a tropical feel to any space, making it more lively and attractive.

• Air Purification

This plant helps clean indoor air by removing harmful toxins and releasing fresh oxygen. It naturally improves air quality, making the environment healthier and more comfortable.

• Boosts Mental Well-Being

Taking care of a Rattlesnake plant can reduce stress and improve focus. Watching it grow and thrive gives a sense of accomplishment. Its bright and colorful leaves also create a peaceful and cheerful atmosphere, which can lift a person’s mood.

• Low Maintenance

The Rattlesnake plant is easy to care for, even for beginners. It grows well indoors with indirect light and regular watering. Its ability to adapt to different conditions makes it a popular choice for many plant lovers.

• Non-Toxic Nature

This plant is non-toxic and safe for homes with pets or children. Families can enjoy its beauty without worrying about safety concerns.

• Educational Value

The Rattlesnake plant is unique because its leaves move in response to light, folding up at night and opening during the day. This fascinating behavior can spark curiosity and make it a fun plant to observe and learn about.

• Tropical Vibes

Originally from rainforests, the Rattlesnake plant brings a touch of nature indoors. It adds warmth and vibrancy to rooms, connecting them to the natural world.

Water Soluble Fertilizers: Fast-Acting Solutions for Healthy Plant Growth

One of the most enjoyable hobbies that a lot of people take pleasure in is gardening since it provides them happiness and calmness when the plants flourish. One important part of helping plants grow strong and healthy is ensuring they get the right nutrients.

LEARN MORE →

Tips to Care for Rattlesnake Plant

The Rattlesnake is a stunning indoor plant that is easy to care for with the right approach. The following steps can help the plant grow healthy, maintain its vibrant patterns, and thrive indoors.

1. Light Requirements

The Rattlesnake plant grows best in bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight is harmful and can cause its delicate leaves to burn or lose their vibrant colors. If the plant receives too little light, its growth may slow down, and its leaves might appear dull.

A spot near a window with sheer curtains or filtered sunlight is ideal. In low-light rooms, adding artificial grow lights can help the plant get enough illumination without risking damage.

2. Watering

The plant likes consistently moist soil but cannot tolerate overwatering. It should be watered once the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Use lukewarm, filtered, or distilled water to avoid the build-up of hard water chemicals that might harm the plant.

Excess water should be drained from the pot to prevent root rot. A good routine and monitoring of soil moisture will help the plant stay hydrated without getting waterlogged.

3. Humidity

As a tropical plant, the Rattlesnake plant thrives in high humidity levels, ideally above 50%. Dry indoor air, especially during winter, can cause its leaves to dry out or curl. Placing the plant in a naturally humid area, such as the bathroom or kitchen, is helpful. 

Alternatively, a suitable environment can be created by using a humidifier, misting the plant’s leaves with water, or placing it on a tray filled with pebbles and water.

4. Temperature

This plant prefers warm temperatures between 65°F and 80°F (18°C to 27°C). It is sensitive to sudden temperature changes and should avoid cold drafts, air conditioners, and heating vents.

Extreme cold or heat can damage its leaves and stunt its growth. Keeping the plant in a stable and warm environment will help it thrive.

5. Soil and Potting

The Rattlesnake plant needs well-draining soil that retains some moisture but doesn’t become waterlogged. A good mix of peat, perlite, and sand works well for houseplants.

The plant also grows from rhizomes, so ensuring the pot has enough room for these underground stems is important. Repotting every two years or when the plant outgrows its pot will allow it to spread and grow healthily. Always use a pot with drainage holes to avoid water accumulation.

6. Fertilizing

A monthly dose of fertilizer is beneficial during the plant's spring and summer growing season. An ideal fertilizer is a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. Feeding helps the plant maintain its lush appearance and supports healthy growth. 

Over-fertilizing should be avoided, as it can damage the plant’s roots or cause a build-up of salts in the soil. Fertilizing can be reduced during fall and winter when the plant’s growth slows.

7. Pruning

Pruning is not essential for the Rattlesnake plant, but removing yellow, dry, or damaged leaves helps it look tidy and healthy. Trimming dead leaves also prevents unnecessary energy loss and allows the plant to focus on new growth.

Cleaning the leaves regularly with a damp cloth removes dust and helps them absorb more light, keeping their patterns bright and vibrant.

8. Pest Control

The Rattlesnake plant is resistant to many pests but can occasionally attract spider mites, mealybugs, or aphids. Regularly inspecting the leaves for signs of infestation helps catch problems early.

Using insecticidal soap, neem oil, or wiping the leaves with a damp cloth can effectively remove pests. Maintaining proper humidity and avoiding overly dry conditions also reduces the risk of pest problems.

9. Propagation

Propagating the Rattlesnake plant is easy through division. During repotting, its rhizomes can be separated carefully to create new plants. Before planting in fresh soil, each section should have healthy roots and a few leaves.

Watering the new plants lightly and keeping them warm, humid environments encourages successful propagation.

Propagating Rattlesnake Plant

Rattlesnake plant is easy to propagate by following the below steps:

1. Get the Required Material

First, all materials must be obtained to propagate the Rattlesnake plant effectively. These include a

• Healthy cutting from a parent plant
• Suitable pots to plant the cutting in healthy and well-draining soil
• Clean water
• Scissors

Sterilize the scissors to prevent contamination during the cutting. 

2. Select the Rhizomes to Propagate

Rhizomes are the stems that develop the plant's roots and shoots. They are required to propagate the Rattlesnake plant. Choose a disease-free and healthy rhizome, preferably with a growing point. The selected rhizome should be healthy for sound propagation and efficient plant growth. 

3. Divide the Rhizomes

Rhizome division is a crucial part of Rattlesnake plant propagation. To divide the rhizome, extract the plan from the soil to allow the rhizome to expose itself. Once the rhizome appears, take the sterilized scissor and very carefully cut it into sections. Each section must contain some roots and a part of a stem or leaf. For better propagation, take the rhizome, preferably in summer or spring. 

4. Insert Divisons in Pots

Fill the pots with a premium soil mix containing two well-draining, nutrient-rich soil parts: peat moss and perlite. Gently move some soil to the sides of the pot to create space in the center. Place one rhizome section in the center of each pot and fill all the pots this way. 

5. Water the Pots

The rhizome transfer from soil to a new pot may stress the plant. Water the soil immediately after inserting it into the pot to recover the rhizome section from this stress. Watering is also suitable for initiating the growth of the Rattlesnake plant. 

However, the water application must be minimal to moisten the soil and improve the soil-rhizome interaction. Over-applying water at this stage may damage the plant and cause several problems, including root rot. 

6. Provide Growing Conditions

Keep the pots in a spot with adequate, bright light from an indirect source. Provide a 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit temperature and enough humidity to support the growing plant. Keep the potting soil moist, as dry soil may damage the increasing Rattlesnake. Newly propagated rhizomes or young plants are vulnerable to even minor stress. Ensure the plant grows in optimal conditions to prevent any inconvenience. 

7. Monitor the Pots

Keep the pots from propagating on their own. Once planted, carefully monitor the growing plants to ensure that their surrounding environments are favorable. Immediately take remedial measures if any signs of stress or disease are observed.

Pruning a Rattlesnake Plant

Pruning the Rattlesnake plant is not always necessary, but it can help keep it looking neat, healthy, and vibrant. Regular pruning ensures the plant stays attractive and removes any damaged or unhealthy growth. Here is how to properly prune the Rattlesnake plant:

1. Inspect for Damaged or Yellowing Leaves

Check the plant for yellow, brown, or damaged leaves. These leaves do not contribute to the plant’s overall health and can make it look untidy. Also, remove any leaves that are wilting or have been affected by pests or diseases.

2. Use Clean, Sharp Tools

Always use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant or spreading disease. Sterilize the tools with rubbing alcohol or a bleach solution to ensure they are free of bacteria or fungi. Clean tools help maintain the plant’s health and prevent the spread of infections.

3. Trim Damaged Leaves

To prune a damaged leaf, cut it off at the base, where it meets the soil or the main stem. For yellowing or brown leaves, trim them close to the stem to avoid leaving any unsightly stubs. Be gentle when cutting to prevent accidental damage to nearby healthy leaves.

4. Remove Old or Dead Leaves

If any completely dead leaves have turned brown or dry, prune them away. Cutting dead leaves will prevent them from taking up valuable energy and space, allowing the plant to focus on new, healthy growth.

5. Clean the Plant’s Leaves

Regularly wiping the leaves with a damp cloth helps keep them clean and free from dust. This also allows the plant to absorb more light, which is essential for its growth. Clean leaves also make the plant look healthier and more vibrant.

6. Avoid Over-Pruning

While removing damaged or dead leaves is good, avoid cutting healthy leaves unnecessarily. Over-pruning can cause stress to the plant and may slow down its growth. Only prune when needed and focus on improving the plant’s overall appearance without overdoing it.

7. Dispose of Pruned Material

After pruning, be sure to properly dispose of any cut leaves or debris. If the gardener notices signs of pests or disease on the removed material, discard it far from the plant to avoid spreading the problem.

Common Problems and Solutions of Rattlesnake Plant

Although the plant is naturally pest-resistant, it may still develop several diseases and pests. Here are some common issues of Rattlesnake plants and ways to resolve them:

• Reduced Growth

Rattlesnake plants in the pot may show reduced or stunted growth for several reasons. Low light or low watering are significant causes, and poor air circulation can also minimize the plant’s growth. 

Loose the potting soil to improve its airflow. Trim the excess root growth to allow new growth. Adjust the pot location so that each side gets the required light and grows uniformly. 

• Leaf Discoloration

Direct sunlight exposure can turn the lush green and vibrant Rattlesnake leaves into yellowish or brown-colored foliage. The young leaves or growing plants can not withstand the intense sunlight and may turn yellow or even die. 

Move the plant immediately to the indirect light source or introduce a suitable curtain to the shielding. Prune the burnt leaves and apply a gentle fertilizer to allow the plant to recover from the stress. 

• Root Rot

Root rot is a fungal disease, and Rattlesnake plants may develop it for several reasons. The excess water retention in the potting soil is the primary reason for rotting roots. Improper drainage also accumulates water in the roots and causes fungal attacks. 

Use a pot with holes to drain excess water. Gentle water splashes can keep the soil moist. Monitor the soil's water requirements and avoid applying excess water.

FAQs

Why does my Rattlesnake plant stand up at night?

The Rattlesnake plant’s leaves fold up or stand upright at night in a natural process called "nyctinasty," which helps the plant conserve energy and reduce water loss.

Where should I put my Rattlesnake plant?

Place the Rattlesnake plant in bright, indirect light, away from direct sunlight. It also thrives in areas with moderate light and higher humidity, like bathrooms or kitchens.

Is the Rattlesnake plant poisonous?

No, the Rattlesnake plant is non-toxic to both humans and pets.

The Bottom Line

Rattlesnake plants are a great option for people who want attractive plants that don’t take up much space. These slow-growing plants are easy to propagate from the parent plant’s rhizomes, making them perfect for both new and experienced gardeners. They can grow well with minimal care.

However, the plant must be monitored and provided with the right conditions to ensure the best growth. Growcycle offers helpful solutions for keeping indoor plants healthy and thriving.

Disclaimer: This material is for informational purposes only and should not be relied on for legal, medical, financial, or any other form of professional advice.

About the Author

Victor Miller

Environmental Journalist Focused on Sustainable Agriculture

Victor Miller is an environmental journalist at Growcycle, where he covers the latest news, trends, and innovations in sustainable agriculture. He has a deep passion for storytelling that emphasizes ecological balance and responsible farming practices.

Before joining Growcycle, Victor worked for several agricultural and environmental publications, reporting on significant environmental issues and interviewing key figures in the sustainability sector. His work has been featured in various industry journals and online platforms.