Plant Passport
Rattlesnake Plant
Goeppertia insignis
LightBright
Water7-10d
PetCheck
PP CALA THEA LANC
Issued 2026 · Valid while cared for
Rattlesnake Plant
Ratelslangplant
Goeppertia insignis
Also known as Calathea lancifolia
“I fold my leaves at night and complain quickly when the air gets dry.”
pet safechild safepatterned foliagebathroom planthumidity loving
- Light
- Medium light
- Water
- Keep lightly moist
- Pet safety
- Pet safe
- This month
- Finish the strongest growth flush with one more light feed. Review support or pruning needs for the rosette shape before tired leaves hide pests Cue: Long narrow rippled leaves with dark oval markings abo.
August care tip
Finish the strongest growth flush with one more light feed. Review support or pruning needs for the rosette shape before tired leaves hide pests Cue: Long narrow rippled leaves with dark oval markings abo.
Quick Care Summary
- Light
- Medium light
- Water
- Keep lightly moist
- Placement
- Best in medium to bright indirect light in a bright bathroom or warm room with humidifier and filtered light.
- Temperature
- 18–28°C
- Humidity
- high
Free printable Plant Passport card
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Plant Passport
Rattlesnake Plant
LightBright
Water7-10d
Botanical stake card
- Format
- 150 x 25mm
- Best for
- Slim plant stakes and gift pots
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View holders →Detailed Care Guide
Watering Method
Water according to the roots, not the calendar: keep the mix lightly moist, never soggy, then drain fully.
Soil Mix
Loose houseplant mix with perlite, bark or coco chips for drainage and air.
Repotting
Repot in spring only when roots fill the pot; choose one size larger.
Pruning
Remove old leaves at the base and trim stretched stems in spring if needed.
Pot Preference
A pot with drainage holes; avoid oversized pots that stay wet too long.
Fertilizing
Feed lightly from March to September; use half-strength balanced fertilizer and skip winter feeding.
Draft Sensitivity
Keep above 18 C and away from winter draughts.
Sources consulted
- powo.science.kew.org
- www.aspca.org
- www.rhs.org.uk
Room Placement
Window Direction
East or west window, or filtered south light set back from the glass.
Best Room
bright bathroom or warm room with humidifier and filtered light
Monthly Care Calendar
Aug (now)
Finish the strongest growth flush with one more light feed. Review support or pruning needs for the rosette shape before tired leaves hide pests Cue: Long narrow rippled leaves with dark oval markings abo.
Sep
Start reducing fertilizer and stretch watering as nights cool. Move Rattlesnake Plant closer to bright filtered light before autumn light drops Cue: Long narrow rippled leaves with dark oval markings abo.
Oct
Stop feeding and prepare for heating season. Set up humidity before edges crisp Cue: Long narrow rippled leaves with dark oval markings abo.
Nov
Winter risk check: test soil before watering, inspect long narrow rippled leaves with dark oval markings above and purple unde, and keep the pot draining freely while growth slows Cue: Long narrow rippled leaves with dark oval markings abo.
Watering Schedule
- Summer
- Every 5 days
- Winter
- Every 10 days
Feel below the surface and keep the mix lightly moist, never soggy before watering again.
Common Problems
Propagation
divisionmoderatespring
Propagate in spring from divisions or stem sections with a growing point; keep warm and lightly moist until established.
Pests & Diseases
Spider mites
Early signs
Fine webbing, speckled leaves and dull new growth.
Treatment
Rinse leaves and repeat insecticidal soap weekly while improving humidity.
Root rot
Early signs
Wilting despite wet soil and a sour smell from the pot.
Treatment
Remove damaged roots, repot in airy mix and water less often.
Buying Tips
Choose Rattlesnake Plant with firm stems, clean new leaves and no sour smell from the pot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Fun Facts
Rattlesnake Plant is often sold under older trade names, so the scientific name is the safest way to match care advice.
Origin & Natural Habitat
Tropical understory habitat with filtered light, warmth and moisture that drains away between rain events.
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