Calathea Lancifolia, commonly known as the Rattlesnake Plant, is a captivating houseplant admired for its long, lance-shaped leaves featuring a striking pattern of dark green spots on a light green background. The leaf undersides display a rich purple hue, making it an attractive addition to any indoor space. Native to the tropical forests of South America, this plant thrives in warm, humid environments with indirect light.
Common Names
- Rattlesnake Plant
- Calathea Lancifolia
Botanical Classification
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Order: Zingiberales
- Family: Marantaceae
- Genus: Calathea
- Species: Calathea lancifolia
Native Habitat
Calathea Lancifolia originates from the tropical rainforests of Brazil. It grows in the shaded understory, thriving in warm, humid environments with filtered sunlight. Indoors, replicating these conditions ensures its optimal growth and vibrant leaf patterns.
Historical and Cultural Significance
The Rattlesnake Plant has become a popular choice among plant enthusiasts for its unique foliage and air-purifying qualities. It symbolizes vitality and renewal, making it a meaningful addition to homes focused on well-being and tranquility.
Uses and Popularity
Calathea Lancifolia is primarily grown as an ornamental houseplant. Its striking foliage makes it a focal point in any indoor plant collection. It is particularly well-suited for offices, living rooms, and bedrooms, where it adds a touch of tropical elegance.
Description
Physical Characteristics
The leaves of Calathea Lancifolia are elongated and lance-shaped, with dark green oval patterns that resemble the markings of a rattlesnake. The contrasting purple undersides create a dynamic visual appeal.
Growth Habit
This plant grows in a clumping formation and can reach a height of 18 to 30 inches. It prefers indirect light and consistent moisture for healthy growth. With proper care, it produces small, non-showy flowers near the base of the plant.
Popular Calathea Varieties
Calathea Freddie
- Known for its light and dark green striped leaves.
Calathea Ornata (Pinstripe)
- Features dark green leaves with elegant pink pinstripes.
Calathea Grey Star
- Boasts silvery-grey foliage with dark green veins.
Calathea Leopardina
- Characterized by bold, elliptical leaves with dark green markings.
Care Guide
Light Requirements
Calathea Lancifolia thrives in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can fade the vibrant patterns on its leaves. It also tolerates low-light conditions, making it suitable for shaded indoor spaces. Learn more about plant light requirements
Watering Needs
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry and ensure proper drainage to prevent root rot. Use distilled or rainwater to avoid mineral build-up. Indoor Plant Watering Guide
Soil Preferences
Use a well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand to enhance aeration. A peat-based mix works well to retain moisture without causing waterlogging. Indoor Potting Mix
Humidity
This plant requires high humidity (50%-70%) to thrive. Use a humidifier, mist the leaves regularly, or place a tray of water near the plant to maintain optimal humidity levels.
Fertilization
Feed Calathea Lancifolia with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent leaf damage. Natural Fertilizer
Common Pests
Spider Mites
Spider mites can cause discoloration and stippling on leaves. Increase humidity and wipe leaves with a damp cloth to prevent infestations. Learn More
Mealybugs
Mealybugs appear as white, cottony masses on the leaves and stems. Remove them with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Learn More
Fungus Gnats
Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings to prevent fungus gnats, which thrive in overly moist soil. Use sticky traps to catch adult gnats. Learn More
FAQs
Why are my Calathea Lancifolia’s leaves curling?
Curling leaves indicate underwatering or low humidity. Increase watering frequency and boost humidity levels to improve the plant's health.
How often should I repot my Calathea Lancifolia?
Repot the plant every 2 years or when it becomes root-bound. Use a pot slightly larger than the current one.
Can I grow Calathea Lancifolia in low light?
Yes, it tolerates low-light conditions but thrives best in bright, indirect light for vibrant leaf patterns.
What should I do if my plant's leaves are turning yellow?
Yellowing leaves can result from overwatering or poor drainage. Check the soil moisture and ensure the pot has good drainage.
How to take care of Calathea Lancifolia Rattlesnake
Light: Medium - Bright
Light: Medium - Bright
Provide ample ambient light for your Calathea Lancifolia, but avoid direct sunlight to maintain its vibrant foliage and prevent scorching.
Sun: Indirect
Sun: Indirect
Place your Calathea Lancifolia Rattlesnake in bright, indirect sunlight to prevent leaf burn while still promoting healthy growth.
Water: When half dry
Water: When half dry
Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy, allowing the top inch to dry out between watering to prevent root rot.
Humidity: High
Humidity: High
Maintain high humidity levels by misting the leaves regularly or placing a humidifier nearby to mimic its natural tropical habitat.
Pet Friendly: Yes
Pet Friendly: Yes
While Calathea Lancifolia Rattlesnake isn't toxic to pets, ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset, so it's best to keep it out of reach.
Pro Tip
Pro Tip
Consider using filtered water to prevent mineral buildup in the soil, which can harm the plant over time.
Delivery Policy for Plant Condition
Delivery Policy for Plant Condition
"I have only received part of my order. What to do?
No worries if you've only got part of your order! Our plants come from different nurseries and might arrive in separate shipments, typically 1-2 days apart. It's all part of ensuring your green friends reach you in top-notch condition!
If you do not receive the remaining packages within 48 hours contact support at info@mygreenscape.ca
What is the Life Time Support?
Absolutely! Lifetime support means you can count on us whenever you have questions or uncertainties about your plant. Whether you're puzzled by its behavior or just want to ensure it's thriving, we're here for you. Connect with us on Instagram @mygreenscapeto or shoot us an email at support@mygreenscape.ca.
When it comes to our guarantee for plants shipped with standard or express, rest assured that we offer a 30-day happy healthy plant guarantee on all such shipments. This ensures that your plants are covered for 30 days after delivery, giving you peace of mind regarding their condition. If you have any concerns within this period, feel free to reach out to us for assistance.
For further details, please visit our Local Delivery, Store Pickup, Standard Shipping Guide Page.
What to expect
What to expect
Your plant will arrive in a standard nursery pot, typically 0.5" - 1" smaller than the stated size to seamlessly fit into your chosen decorative pot. Washable Paper Planter Bags are available for separate purchase.
Just like nature intended, each plant is unique, showcasing natural variations in size, shape, and characteristics. Our commitment is to deliver a plant that closely resembles the one featured on our website, matching your chosen size, and with the potential to thrive happily in your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Certainly! If you're pondering about ordering plants online, you're not alone. We've compiled the most frequently asked questions. Check out our FAQ section here for quick answers! Happy planting!
Plant & Pot Size Chart
Plant & Pot Size Chart
Choosing the right pot size for your plants can be a daunting task, especially if you're new to gardening. But fear not! Our pot sizes chart can help you find the perfect match for your plants, ensuring they have enough space to grow and thrive. With our guide, you'll be able to confidently choose the right pot size and plant variety for your gardening needs.
Plant Pot Size Guide.
Extra Small | 7-10 cm | 2.5 - 3 inches |
Small | 11-12 cm | 3.5 - 4 inches |
Medium | 14-17 cm | 5 - 6 inches |
Large | 19-21 cm | 8 - 10 inches |
Extra Large | 24-27 cm | 12 - 14 inches |
All sizes are specified in product details.
Your Complete Guide to Pot Sizes: What Size Should You Choose?
When selecting a pot for your plant, it's important to find the right size. But with all the different options out there, how do you know which one is best? We're here to help!
MyGreenscape's pot sizes chart is a great resource for finding your perfect fit. Our easy-to-read chart takes out all the guesswork and helps you quickly choose the right size for your plant.
Smaller pots are best for seedlings or small plants just starting out. These tend to be shallow but wide, allowing enough room for the roots of the young plant but not too much where they get overcrowded. Medium-sized pots are ideal when your plant has grown from its infancy and is ready for more space. These are deeper and wider than small pots, so that it can accommodate larger root systems - making sure your plant gets enough nourishment while still giving it breathing room. Large pots are top choice if you have an established plant in need of lots of space - think trees and large shrubs! The spacious depth and width allow plenty of room for deep root systems without struggling for air or light.
No matter what size you choose, MyGreenscape has got you covered, with our pot sizes chart guaranteeing you find the perfect fit every time!
Winter Shipping Protection
Winter Shipping Protection
We take extra care with each package during the colder months. For destinations experiencing cold weather, we provide insulated packaging and heat packs as needed to protect your plants from freezing temperatures. With Winter Shipping Protection, your plants are equipped to arrive safe and sound, even in winter’s chill.
Care Guide
Care Guide
Explore essential care tips. check out our Comprehensive Resource for Indoor Plant Care.
WATERING MADE EASY
Check soil moisture before watering and use a potting mix that drains well. It’s the secret to healthy, happy plants!
I purchased a couple of plants. Delivery was prompt, well packaged and very healthy. They will continue to get my business.
Thank you for taking the time to leave a review for our Calathea Lancifolia Rattlesnake. We are thrilled to hear that you are happy with your purchase and that our delivery and packaging met your expectations. We appreciate your support and look forward to serving you again in the future. Happy gardening!
The Calathea Lancifolia Rattlesnake is breathtaking. The intricate patterns on the leaves are mesmerizing.
The Calathea Lancifolia Rattlesnake is a stunner! The intricate patterns on its leaves are mesmerizing. Great addition to my indoor garden!
2023-11-08