Rattlesnake Calathea

Rattlesnake Calathea (Calathea lancifolia) is a tall, slender calathea that grows 60cm to 75cm high and about 60cm wide. Long, lance shaped leaves with wavy edges are marked with a neat, symmetrical pattern of dark spots on deep green, and the undersides are purple. Mature, happy plants even send up small, sand coloured flowers at the foot of the stems that look like a rattlesnake tail.

Why you'll love it

• Spotted, wavy leaves. Each long leaf carries a symmetrical pattern of spots and a wavy edge, so the plant has texture as well as colour.
• Purple undersides. The backs of the leaves are purple, which shows when the foliage moves and when you lift a leaf.
• A flower like a rattlesnake tail. Mature plants produce small, sand coloured flowers at the base of the stems, a curiosity that adds interest to an already patterned plant.
• Height without bulk. Slender leaves reach 60cm to 75cm, so it fills a corner without spreading across the floor.
• Pet friendly. Calatheas are not considered toxic to cats and dogs.

Where it works best

Shaded patio containers. A tall pot stands up to the slender leaves and keeps them clear of the ground. Place it where it gets bright shade and no cold wind.

Tropical underplanting. In frost free gardens, plant 60cm apart under trees and tall shrubs for a flowing, spotted layer.

Indoors. A bright room away from direct sun and cold draughts gives it the warmth and humidity it likes.

Growing Rattlesnake Calathea in Australia

Position and climate. A shady spot with indirect sunlight. It likes warm, humid conditions, so it grows outdoors in tropical and subtropical gardens that never see frost. In cooler regions, keep it indoors or on a sheltered patio in summer.

Soil. Moisture retaining soil or a good quality potting mix, with drainage so the roots do not sit in water.

Water and feed. Water regularly during the first 12 weeks and regularly once established. Mist when the air is dry. Apply a slow release fertiliser once a year, and liquid feed every three months for vibrant, healthy foliage.

Pruning. Pruning is not required. Simply remove old leaves for a quick tidy up.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell Rattlesnake Calathea as tube stock, a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly, in 140mm pots in packs of 10 and in 200mm pots in packs of 6. The potted packs give a fuller plant to start with, and tubes are the value choice for a shaded bed. Keep it warm and sheltered when it arrives, and avoid cold draughts.

The tube comes direct from our grower, who does not always have it. A sold out tube simply means none is ready today, and the notify button on this page emails you the day it is back.

Plants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.

Plant care guides and related reading

• Browse the calathea range
• More tropical plants
• Pet friendly indoor plants
• Calathea care guide for brown edges and curling

Common questions

How tall does it grow?

Rattlesnake Calathea reaches 60cm to 75cm tall and about 60cm wide, so it is one of the taller calatheas and suits a floor pot.

Will it flower?

Yes, when it is mature and happy. Small, sand coloured flowers appear at the foot of the stems and resemble a rattlesnake tail, though the leaves are the main feature.

What temperature does it like?

Warm and humid. Keep it frost free and out of cold draughts, and mist the leaves regularly if the air is dry.