Rattlesnake Plant (Calathea lancifolia), 4-Inch Pot

The Rattlesnake Plant, often sold as Calathea lancifolia, brings lively pattern to a bright indoor spot. Its long, rippled green leaves carry dark oval markings and reveal purple undersides as they move. Leaf count, height, and pattern vary from plant to plant.

Size and what ships

One live Rattlesnake Plant in a 4-inch plastic nursery grow pot. Exact height, spread, and leaf count vary at shipping. With suitable care it can become a larger, fuller clump over time.

Care guide

• Light: Bright indirect light is best. Avoid strong direct sun, which can fade or scorch the patterned leaves.
• Water: Keep the mix lightly and evenly moist during active growth, watering when the upper layer begins to dry. Let excess drain and avoid waterlogged soil. Water somewhat less in cooler, darker months.
• Water quality: If leaf edges brown despite otherwise good care, try filtered, rain, or distilled water, as some plants are sensitive to minerals in tap water.
• Soil: Use a loose, moisture-retentive yet well-draining indoor mix in a pot with drainage.
• Humidity and temperature: Moderate to higher indoor humidity can help prevent crisp edges. Keep comfortably warm and away from cold drafts and hot dry vents.
• Feeding: Feed lightly with diluted balanced houseplant fertilizer during spring and summer growth if needed; reduce in winter.
• Grooming and repotting: Trim damaged leaves at the base with clean shears. Repot one size up if roots crowd the nursery pot.
• Propagation: Established clumps can be divided at repotting, keeping roots and growth points with each division.

Pet safety

Rattlesnake Plants are generally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs, though it is best to discourage pets from chewing houseplants.

Optional planter

The 4-inch nursery pot fits inside the white Basel 4.7-inch planter with a little room around it. Basel in the styled photo is sold separately; the plant ships in its plastic nursery pot. Furnishings are not included.