Calathea Rattlesnake Prayer Plant (Calathea lancifolia)

Distinctive light and dark-green patterned leaves with ruffled edges and a purple underside — the Rattlesnake Calathea is a pet-safe prayer plant native to the Brazilian rainforest.

The Calathea Rattlesnake (Calathea lancifolia, also known as Goeppertia insignis) is an evergreen herbaceous perennial with striking leaf patterns in light and dark green, ruffled edges, and a vivid purple underside. Like all Calatheas, it's a prayer plant — leaves fold at nighttime and open in the day. Native to the Brazilian rainforest, it thrives with regular watering, good humidity, and indirect light. Soil should be moist but not waterlogged; allow the top 2 inches to dry before rewatering. Available in 4"–6" nursery pot, Selene Ceramic Marble Planter (6.5"), or Athena Ceramic Marble Planter (5.5").

What I love about it

The Rattlesnake Calathea is the prayer plant with the most dramatic leaf pattern. The alternating light and dark green spots along each long, ruffled leaf are genuinely striking — they look painted on — and the purple underside adds a color contrast that's revealed every time the leaves fold at night. Pet-safe, air-purifying, and one of the most visually interesting Calatheas you can own. Rewards consistent humidity and indirect light with spectacular foliage.

Plant Care Tips

• ☀️ Light: Bright indirect light — no direct sun
• 💧 Water: Keep soil moist but not waterlogged; allow top 2" to dry before rewatering
• 💧 Humidity: Needs moderate to high humidity — mist regularly
• 🌡️ Temperature: Best in 65–75°F
• 🐾 Pet Safety: Non-toxic to cats and dogs
• 🪴 Difficulty: Intermediate — rewards consistent humidity and indirect light

Plant Specs

• Foliage: Light and dark green patterned leaves; ruffled edges; purple underside
• Available In: 4"–6" nursery pot; Selene Ceramic Marble Planter (6.5"); Athena Ceramic Marble Planter (5.5")
• Growing Zone: 10–11 outdoors; houseplant in all zones