Rattlesnake Calathea

Rattlesnake Calathea grows best in medium to bright, indirect light. This is similar to the filtered light it gets beneath rainforest trees.

Avoid direct sunlight, which can burn the leaves and fade their bold markings. The plant can tolerate lower light, but growth may slow and new leaves may not be as colorful.

A north- or east-facing window is ideal. You can also place it a few feet back from a bright window.

Keep the soil evenly moist, but not soggy. Water when the top half inch of soil feels dry. Try not to let the soil dry out completely.

This plant is sensitive to chlorine, fluoride, and minerals found in many tap water supplies. Distilled, filtered, or rainwater is the best choice whenever possible.

Water until it drains from the bottom of the pot, then empty the saucer so the roots aren't left sitting in water.

Rattlesnake Calathea prefers high humidity. Aim for 60% or more if you can. Dry air often causes the leaf edges to turn brown and crispy.

A humidifier, pebble tray, or grouping it with other tropical plants can help increase humidity.

Keep temperatures between 65°F and 80°F. Avoid cold drafts, heating vents, air conditioners, and sudden temperature changes.

Use a loose potting mix that holds moisture while draining well. A peat- or coco coir-based mix with perlite and orchid bark works well.

Feed once a month during spring and summer with a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer mixed at half strength.

Stop fertilizing during fall and winter while growth naturally slows.

This plant is best propagated by division. Stem or leaf cuttings won't grow into new plants.

During spring repotting, gently remove the plant from its pot and separate healthy clumps with their own roots and a few leaves. Use a clean knife if needed.

Plant each division in fresh, moist potting mix. Keep the humidity high until you see new growth.

Repot every 12 to 18 months in spring, or when the plant becomes root-bound.

Choose a pot that's only 1 to 2 inches wider than the current one and has drainage holes. A pot that's too large stays wet longer, which can lead to root rot.

Handle the fine roots gently, fill with fresh potting mix, and avoid packing the soil too tightly. Water well after repotting to help the roots settle.

Rattlesnake Calathea is non-toxic to cats and dogs.

Even though it's safe, it's still best to keep it out of reach if your pets like to chew on plants. This helps protect the leaves from damage.

Rattlesnake Calathea is native to the tropical rainforests of Brazil. It grows beneath dense tree canopies where the air is warm, humid, and the light is filtered.

Trying to recreate these conditions indoors will help keep your plant healthy.

The Rattlesnake Calathea belongs to the prayer plant family. Its leaves naturally rise at night and lower again in the morning, following a daily cycle called nyctinasty. This movement is controlled by a small joint at the base of each leaf that changes water pressure as light levels change.