Goeppertia insignis

Rattlesnake Plant, Rattlesnake Calathea, Calathea lancifolia

Moderate careTerrestrialNon-toxic23–76 cm

A tropical plant with long, lance-shaped leaves marked by alternating dark green spots along the midrib and gently wavy margins. The undersides are a deep purple-maroon. It does best in high humidity and indirect light, which makes it well suited to closed terrariums.

Build a terrarium with this plant
Rattlesnake Plant image

Photo by Cary Bass-Deschênes·CC BY-SA 3.0

Care

Prefers high humidity, indirect light, with 16–27 °C, and reaches 76 cm at maturity.

Light

Indirect light(preferred)Shade tolerant

Humidity

High (60–80%)(preferred)Very high (80%+)

Temperature

10°C25°C40°C
16°C – 27°C

Soil

Peat moss(preferred)Well draining

Moisture

Moist(preferred)

Soil pH

5.5 – 7

Propagation

Divide the rhizome — a thick horizontal stem below the soil — during repotting in spring. Each division should have several stems and a healthy root system.

Native range

Native to Brazil.

Appearance

Growth habit

ClumpingUpright

Leaf shape

Lance

Leaf texture

SmoothGlossy

Frequently asked

Can Rattlesnake Plant grow in a closed terrarium?

Yes. Rattlesnake Plant prefers high (60–80%) humidity, which is what a closed terrarium provides, and tolerates indirect-light-loving conditions.

Does Rattlesnake Plant need drainage?

Rattlesnake Plant prefers a moist substrate. Drainage is helpful but not critical; consistent moisture matters more.

What humidity does Rattlesnake Plant need?

Rattlesnake Plant does best in high (60–80%) humidity.

Is Rattlesnake Plant pet-safe?

Rattlesnake Plant is considered non-toxic to common household pets.

How tall does Rattlesnake Plant grow?

Rattlesnake Plant typically reaches 23–76 cm at maturity.

How do you propagate Rattlesnake Plant?

Rattlesnake Plant can be propagated by division.

References

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    NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox

    https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/goeppertia-insignis/
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