Rattlesnake plant care
Goeppertia insignis (Calathea lancifolia) needs bright light with no direct sun. Check the soil before you water.
This is general care advice. Check the label of your plant. Keep toxic plants away from pets and children.
Add to my plantsCare at a glance
- Botanical name
- Goeppertia insignis (Calathea lancifolia)
- Other names
- Calathea lancifolia, Goeppertia lancifolia
- Light
- Bright light, no direct sun. Put it in medium to bright, indirect light. Direct sun bleaches the leaves.
- Soil check
- Every 3 to 6 days in the growing season. The app learns the real time.
- Humidity
- High humidity
- Feeding
- Feed once a month in spring and summer. Do not feed in winter.
How to check the soil of Rattlesnake plant
How does the soil feel on the surface?
Touch the soil surface. This plant must never dry out.
- Dry: the surface feels dry and light. Water the plant.
- Damp: the surface feels cool and a little moist. Do not water yet.
- Wet: the surface is soggy, or you see water. Do not water. Check the drainage.
Do not water on a fixed day. Test the soil first. Read the soil check guide.
Soil mix
Use a light, peaty potting soil with some perlite. The mix must drain well.
Tips for Rattlesnake plant
- Use rain water or filtered water. Tap water minerals cause brown leaf edges.
- Curled leaves mean thirst or dry air. Water the plant and raise humidity.
- The leaves move up at night and down in the day. This is normal.
- Pale, faded leaves mean too much sun. Move the plant away from the window.
Pet safety
Not toxic to cats and dogs. Keep it away from pets that chew plants.
ASPCA: Calathea