Calathea Lancifolia (Rattlesnake plant) is an attractive tropical houseplant with slender pointed leaves decorated with light and dark green patterns. The main attraction is its lance-shaped leaves with dark ellipse patterns on the upper side and purple colours on the underside. It is native to Brazil, and as an evergreen perennial, Calathea lancifolia is easy to grow indoors.
The Calathea lancifolia grows to about 30 inches tall as a houseplant and about approximately 24 inches in width.
This unique houseplant prefers indirect light for 8-10 hours a day. Indirect sunlight is best, but artificial lights work well too.
Too much direct sun will cause damage to the leaves, including scorch marks. Keep it out of the full sun for best results.
On the flip side, if there isn’t enough light, its leaves will likely turn yellow, and lower leaves will begin to fall.
Remember, you’re trying to give a rattlesnake plant a home that’s similar to its natural climate. Since lancifolia comes from the tropical areas of Brazil (where a canopy covers it), it’s most comfortable in indirect light.
If you’re concerned that your Calathea lancifolia or other house plants aren’t getting enough light, consider moving them closer to a window or utilizing artificial lighting.