Calathea lancifolia Goeppertia insignis
ABOUT
The Goeppertia insignis, commonly known as the Rattlesnake Plant, has a distinctive and attractive appearance. It features long, wavy-edged leaves that are decorated with an intricate pattern. The tops of the leaves exhibit a combination of green shades, ranging from dark forest green to light green, creating an alluring contrast. What's particularly unique is that the leaves have a fascinating pattern that resembles the skin of a rattlesnake, from which it derives its common name. The underside of each leaf contrasts sharply with the top, showcasing a rich purple or burgundy color that adds to the visual interest of the plant. Each individual leaf extends outward from a central base, gracefully arching with a shape that is somewhat elliptical or lanceolate. The foliage of the Rattlesnake Plant gathers in a rosette form, making it a lush and bushy specimen, with each leaf on its slender stalk contributing to a dense canopy of patterned greenery. This arrangement of leaves not only provides visual volume but also allows for a dramatic display of the contrasting undersides. In addition to its striking foliage, the Rattlesnake Plant may occasionally produce small flowers. However, the blooms are often considered inconsequential when compared to the stunning leaves, and thus, they do not generally contribute significantly to the plant's overall appearance. The focus remains on the mesmerizing patterns and colors of the foliage, which can make the Rattlesnake Plant a standout addition to any collection of houseplants or shaded garden areas.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Marantaceae
Synonyms
Rattlesnake Plant, Insignis Prayer Plant
Common names
Calathea insignis, Maranta insignis, Goeppertia marantina, Phrynium variegatum.
ToxicityTo humans
Goeppertia insignis, commonly known as the Rattlesnake Plant, is not considered toxic to humans. Therefore, ingesting this plant typically does not cause poisoning or adverse symptoms. However, it is always best to avoid ingesting any houseplants or parts thereof.
To pets
The Rattlesnake Plant (Goeppertia insignis) is not toxic to cats or dogs. If a pet ingests part of this plant, it is unlikely to suffer from poisoning or display symptoms related to toxicity. It's always prudent, however, to monitor pets and prevent them from chewing on any houseplants, as individual animals might have unique sensitivities or reactions.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Height
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
11
Native area
South America
Benefits
General Benefits- Enhances Decor: The plant, commonly known as Rattlesnake Plant, adds a tropical feel to indoor spaces with its attractive foliage.
- Low Light Adaptation: Rattlesnake Plant tolerates low light conditions, making it suitable for less sunny indoor locations.
- Humidity Lover: It thrives in high humidity environments, which can be beneficial in dry indoor climates and for those who enjoy tropical plants.
- Non-Toxic: Safe for homes with pets and children, as it is non-toxic if accidentally ingested.
- Easy to Care: Rattlesnake Plant is relatively easy to maintain, requiring simple care routines in terms of watering and feeding.
- Psychological Benefits: The presence of the plant can contribute to a calming atmosphere, reducing stress and promoting well-being.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Goeppertia insignis, commonly known as Calathea lancifolia, can be used as an educational tool for teaching about plant physiology and the adaptations of rainforest flora due to its rhythmic leaf movements known as nyctinasty.
- The striking leaf patterns of Calathea lancifolia serve as inspiration for artists and designers, who may use the plant's natural design in textiles, wallpaper, and other graphic elements.
- The leaves of Calathea lancifolia can be used in tropical-themed floral arrangements or as a natural decoration for eco-friendly events, adding a lush, vibrant touch.
- As an object of photography, Calathea lancifolia's distinctive foliage offers an opportunity for photographers to capture the details and patterns of nature.
- In terrariums or bottle gardens, Calathea lancifolia can be a feature plant due to its moderate size and ornamental leaves, which contribute to the miniature ecosystem's aesthetics.
- Calathea lancifolia is sometimes used in religious and cultural ceremonies as an ornamental plant, signifying the reverence for nature in various cultures.
- Due to its non-toxicity, Calathea lancifolia is a safe choice of vegetation for pet habitats, specifically for reptiles and amphibians that require a humid environment.
- Aquarium enthusiasts may use fallen leaves of Calathea lancifolia to simulate a tropical riverbed aesthetic in freshwater tanks, although the leaves are not aquatic and should only be used decoratively above water or replaced regularly.
- The humidity requirements of Calathea lancifolia make it a suitable plant choice for increasing localized humidity in a room, which can be beneficial for storing certain humidity-sensitive items like musical instruments.
- Calathea lancifolia can be used in natural dye-making due to the pigments in its leaves, though it is not commonly known for this purpose and would require experimentation for color extraction.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Calathea is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Calathea is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Elegance: Goeppertia insignis, commonly known as Rattlesnake Plant, has a sophisticated appearance with its unique pattern of wavy leaves, symbolizing grace and elegance.
- Rarity: Rattlesnake Plant is not commonly found in every houseplant collection, making it a symbol of uniqueness and rarity.
- Growth: As a houseplant that requires some care to thrive, it represents personal growth and the idea of nurturing to flourish.
- Balance: The Rattlesnake Plant's need for specific but balanced care conditions, like humidity and light, symbolizes the importance of balance in life.
WaterThe Rattlesnake Plant (Goeppertia insignis) should be watered when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch. The watering frequency can vary but typically ranges from once a week to every two weeks, depending on the humidity and temperature conditions of the environment. When watering, use lukewarm water and pour it evenly over the soil until it starts to drain out of the bottom of the pot; this could amount to around 8-16 ounces for a standard-sized indoor pot every time you water. Always allow the excess water to drain, and never let the plant sit in water as this can lead to root rot.
LightThe Rattlesnake Plant prefers bright, indirect light. It thrives in a spot that receives plenty of light without direct sunlight, which can scorch its leaves. An east or north-facing window is ideal for this plant. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, especially during the hot summer months.
TemperatureThe Rattlesnake Plant prefers temperatures between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit and can survive at a minimum temperature of 60 degrees Fahrenheit. It should not be exposed to temperatures below 60 degrees Fahrenheit as cold drafts and sudden temperature drops can harm it. The ideal conditions are moderately warm and consistent temperatures without any direct cold drafts or sudden fluctuations.
PruningThe Rattlesnake Plant should be pruned to remove any brown or damaged leaves and to promote healthy growth by encouraging a bushier shape. Pruning is best done in the spring or early summer when the plant is entering its active growing phase. You can prune every few months or as needed to maintain its appearance; simply cut back the unwanted leaves at the base without harming the main stalks.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Calathea Warscewiczii prefers a well-draining, peat-based potting mix, with an addition of perlite or bark to enhance drainage. The soil pH should ideally be in the range of 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingThe Calathea Warscewiczii should be repotted every two years or when it outgrows its pot, typically in the spring before the growing season begins.
Humidity & MistingThe Calathea Warscewiczii thrives in high humidity, ideally between 60% to 80%, to maintain its lush foliage.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Keep Calathea Warscewiczii in bright, indirect light with high humidity.
Outdoor
Grow Calathea Warscewiczii in shade with high ambient humidity.
Hardiness zone
11-12 USDA
Life cycleGoeppertia insignis, commonly known as rattlesnake plant, begins its life cycle as seeds which, once sowed in warm, moist soil, germinate to produce small seedlings. The seedlings grow through a vegetative stage, developing characteristic long, wavy-edged leaves with distinctive patterns and colors, particularly a purple underside. As the plant matures, it forms a clump through the production of new shoots from the rhizome, without a distinct flowering stage as it rarely blooms indoors. Under the right conditions, if the plant does flower, it produces small, inconspicuous flowers within bracts that are often hidden beneath the leaves. After flowering, the plant may enter a period of reduced growth or dormancy, particularly in cooler temperatures or shorter day lengths. Through proper care, including adequate water, humidity, and indirect light, the rattlesnake plant can live for several years, continuously producing new foliage to replace older leaves that naturally die back.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Summer
The Calathea insignis, also known as the Rattlesnake Plant, is typically propagated by division during the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. To propagate by division, carefully remove the plant from its pot and gently divide the root ball into smaller sections, ensuring that each new section has several healthy roots and at least one or two shoots. Plant these divisions into fresh potting soil and keep them in a warm, humid environment with indirect light. Water them regularly to maintain evenly moist soil without letting the roots sit in water. Over time, these divisions will grow into separate, independent plants, inheriting the unique leaf patterns and growth habits of the parent Rattlesnake Plant.
