How to grow a rattlesnake plant – 6 essential, expert-recommended steps for indoor care

Native to the rainforests of Brazil, the rattlesnake plant (Goeppertia insignis - formerly known as Calathea lancifolia) is a truly unique addition to any home, adding a touch of tropical charm. When provided with the right conditions, including proper light, humidity, and temperature, rattlesnake plants can reach heights of 9 to 20 inches.

As with all calathea care, the rattlesnake plant may not be the easiest houseplant for beginners – unlike caring for a snake plant, which is typically more resilient. But its unique, patterned leaves stand out in any indoor space, making it well worth the extra effort.

We've consulted with horticulturists to provide expert tips in this care guide on how to successfully grow and maintain your rattlesnake plant, so you can enjoy its beauty year-round.

1. Provide bright, filtered light

Where you place your rattlesnake plant is crucial for its healthy growth, primarily because proper placement ensures it receives the appropriate amount of sunlight.

Rattlesnake plants thrive in bright and indirect light conditions, reflecting the dappled sunlight they naturally receive under the lower canopies of their rainforest habitat.

Rattlesnake plants should be kept out of direct sunlight, a common mistake in Calathea care. Direct exposure can scorch the leaves, causing them to become unhealthy and discolored.

Horticulturist and owner of Splendid Landscape, Kaushikan Ganesan suggests, 'Rattlesnake plants should be placed near southeast or northern windows to provide the bright, indirect light they need. Alternatively, sheer curtains can be used to filter direct sunlight.'

When placing them near east-facing windows, ensure they are a few feet away to avoid exposure to harsh rays.

You should also wipe leaves at least once a fortnight to remove dust and other impurities restricting light usage. To gently clean houseplant leaves without damaging them, use a spray bottle filled with water and a microfiber cloth or a leaf cleaning tong, such as this one from Amazon.

Kaushikan Ganesan

Kaushikan Ganesan is the owner of Splendid Landscape and a dedicated horticulturist. His skills span plant identification, environmental education, gardening, sustainability, and agriculture, all backed by a strong academic foundation – Bachelor’s Degree in environmental horticulture. His passion lies in creating thriving, sustainable landscapes that harmonize nature and design, fostering environments where both plants and people can flourish.

2. Maintain warm, consistent temperatures

A stable, warm environment is crucial for the health of rattlesnake plants.

To mimic their tropical environment, provide these plants with a steady room temperature, between 65°F and 75°F. Outdoors, they thrive in hardiness zones 10-11, where the climate remains warm and consistent.

You can keep a plant thermometer – such as this ThermoPro TP49 digital hygrometer from Amazon – near the plant can allow you to easily check if temperatures are ideal.

Avoid placing rattlesnake plants near drafty windows, air vents, or heaters, as sudden changes in temperature can stress the plant.

3. Keep the soil moist but not soggy

The key to watering rattlesnake plants is to do so only when the top inch (2.5 cm) of soil feels dry. This will ensure the soil remains moist but not soggy.

Additionally, Mathew Wilson, horticulturist and CEO of Handy Gardeners advises: 'Try to use a watering can with a narrow spout to control water flow and minimize splashing on leaves.'

Another essential step in watering calatheas correctly is to avoid tap water. This has a high mineral content, including chlorine and fluoride, which can lead to deficiency in plants, such as browning tips. Instead, opt for distilled or filtered water, or leave tap water out overnight before watering to allow harmful chemicals to dissipate.

Matthew Wilson

Matthew Wilson, CEO of Handy Gardeners, leads the company with a passion for landscaping and environmental sustainability. Under his guidance, Handy Gardeners has become a trusted name in the industry, providing top-notch gardening and landscaping services.


4. Use well-draining, aerated soil and fertilize moderately

Soil type plays a crucial role in growing healthy rattlesnake plants, affecting water drainage, moisture retention, and overall plant health.

These plants thrive in soil that drains well yet retains enough moisture to prevent the roots from drying out. A high-quality, well-draining potting mix is essential to avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot and other health issues.

The soil should have a neutral pH, although slightly acidic is acceptable. However, rattlesnake plants cannot tolerate alkaline soil, which can stunt their growth and cause nutrient deficiencies.

For rattlesnake plants, a mix designed for tropical plants – such as one containing moss, perlite, and orchid bark – is ideal. This 7.5lb Miracle-Gro tropical potting mix at Walmart is ideal. These ingredients promote proper drainage while also retaining the moisture necessary for the plant's growth.

You can enhance aeration in the soil by adding perlite or coco coir – available at Amazon – to allow the roots to breathe more easily and prevent compaction.

5. Maintain high humidity levels

Since rattlesnake plants originate from tropical rainforests, they thrive in a humid climate. To replicate these conditions, aim for a humidity level of 50% to 60%.

Kaushikan Ganesan recommends using a pebble tray of water or humidifiers, such as the one below, to keep humidity high around the plant. You should also occasionally mist the leaves.

Doing this is especially during the winter, to protect the leaves from drying and getting brown. This makes rattlesnake plants a perfect plant for bathrooms.

6. Fertilize moderately

To maintain healthy growth, use a balanced fertilizer diluted in water every four to six weeks during the spring and summer when the plant is actively growing. 'As the growth rate naturally slows in the fall and winter, reduce or stop feeding during these seasons,' advises Mathew Wilson.

Additionally, ensure the soil contains a trace of organic matter, such as this organic liquid fertilizer, from Amazon. This will provide essential nutrients, complementing the fertilizer and supporting the plant's overall health.

Additional tips for healthy rattlesnake plant growth

• Pruning: Regular pruning helps your rattlesnake plant focus its energy on new, healthy growth. Remove any leaves with yellowing or crispy edges using clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears. These Fiskars Bypass pruning shears are the best seller on Amazon. Ensure you cut close to the base of the affected leaf without damaging the surrounding healthy parts.
• Repotting: Repot your rattlesnake plant every two to three years. This will give you an opportunity to refresh its soil and accommodate for root growth. Select a container that is slightly larger than the current one to give the roots room to grow without overwhelming the plant.
• Leaf care: Kaushikan Ganesan says: 'Gently wiping leaves with a damp cloth serves to minimize dust on them and increase the rate of photosynthesis.'
• Rotating for balanced growth: 'Rattlesnake plants naturally seek light, which can cause uneven growth if they are not regularly rotated,' warns Mathew Wilson. 'To keep the plant growing straight and balanced, rotate the pot by a quarter turn every week. This ensures all sides of the plant receive equal light exposure, promoting uniform growth and a symmetrical shape.'

Throughout the growing process, keep a close eye on your rattlesnake plant for any signs of stress. For instance, look out for common houseplant pests that may invade the plant, browning leaf edges caused by low humidity, or faded leaf color, which often indicates too much light exposure. If these issues arise, implement appropriate methods or adjust your care routine accordingly.