Native to the lush Brazilian rainforest, the Calathea Rattlesnake is a stunning low-light plant that adds a touch of tropical beauty to any space. This remarkable plant flourishes in warm, semi-shady environments and requires ample heat and humidity to thrive. While it can occasionally produce vibrant yellow-orange flowers in the right conditions, blooming is rare indoors. With its impressive height of up to 30 inches or more, the Calathea Rattlesnake is sure to turn heads.
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When purchasing a Calathea Rattlesnake, keep in mind that it is often sold under its former scientific name, Calathea insignis. Now, let’s dive into everything you need to know about caring for your Calathea Rattlesnake.
You're reading: How to Keep Your Calathea Rattlesnake Thriving
Calathea Rattlesnake Care Tips
Caring for your Calathea Rattlesnake requires some extra tender loving care to maintain its gorgeous leaves. Follow our comprehensive guide below, covering sunlight requirements, common problems, and their solutions.
Sunlight
To ensure the health of your Calathea Rattlesnake, find a spot where it can receive medium to low light. Avoid direct sunlight and afternoon rays to prevent leaf scorching.
Common Problem: If you notice the beautiful bold patterns on your Calathea Rattlesnake fading, it means the plant is receiving too much direct sun.
Solution: Place your Calathea Rattlesnake in a low-light area, such as your bathroom or kitchen, where it can enjoy just the right amount of sunlight to thrive.
Water
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Establishing a regular watering schedule is crucial to maintaining the moisture levels in your Calathea Rattlesnake’s soil. However, be cautious not to overwater.
Common Problem: If the leaves of your Calathea Rattlesnake start to curl, it indicates that the soil is too dry. Signs of completely dry soil include drooping, wilting, and browning leaves.
Solution: Stick to a consistent watering schedule. Water your Calathea Rattlesnake when the top 1″-2″ of soil becomes dry.
Common Problem: If the edges of your Calathea Rattlesnake’s leaves turn yellow, the water quality might be harmful to the plant.
Solution: Tap water is unsuitable for plants due to its high salt, chlorine, mineral, and fluoride content, leading to leaf tip burn, curling, and browning. Filter the water using a water filtration system or let it sit in an open container overnight.
Humidity & Temperature
Creating a high humidity environment is essential for the well-being of your Calathea Rattlesnake. Consider placing it in an area such as the bathroom or kitchen. Moreover, the plant thrives in warm temperatures, ideally between 65°F to 85°F. Keep the indoor temperature above 64°F for optimal growth.
Common Problem: If the leaves of your Calathea Rattlesnake start browning or curling, it indicates that the environment lacks sufficient humidity.
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Solution: Mist your plant regularly with lukewarm water. Calathea Rattlesnakes love humidity, so misting it daily or using a pebble tray can help. Additionally, avoid exposing it to cold drafts or sudden temperature changes.
Toxicity
While the Calathea Rattlesnake is non-toxic to humans and pets, it is still best practice to keep houseplants out of reach from small children and pets.
Food
Feeding your Calathea Rattlesnake is essential for its growth and overall health. During spring and summer, apply a general houseplant fertilizer containing iron once every four weeks. Completely refrain from fertilizing during winter.
Common Problem: If the edges of your Calathea Rattlesnake’s leaves turn brown or wilt, you may be over-fertilizing the plant, which can lead to root burn and potential death.
Solution: Avoid excessive fertilization, particularly during the winter months. Overfeeding can harm your Calathea Rattlesnake.
Pests & Other Problems
The Calathea Rattlesnake is generally a trouble-free indoor plant, usually unaffected by pests. However, if you encounter aphids, mealybugs, or spider mites, it’s crucial to address the issue promptly. Treat your Calathea Rattlesnake with weekly sprays of horticultural oil. Boosting humidity by using a humidifier or water spray can also help combat these pests.
Dust can accumulate on your Calathea Rattlesnake’s leaves from time to time. Gently clean them with a damp cloth, ensuring not to use any leaf shine products.
That’s all you need to know to care for your Calathea Rattlesnake. Don’t forget to mist it regularly! For more plant care tips and information on different houseplants, visit our Plant Care blog. And remember, to display your plant baby in style, explore Omysa’s range of planters that perfectly complement your garden and home decor.
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Category: Snake Plant
