Calathea Rattlesnake Prayer Plants
Best vibrant greenery for enhancing indoor living spaces.
The Calathea Rattlesnake, or Calathea lancifolia, is a striking tropical plant celebrated for its unique, patterned foliage. Its long, wavy leaves display dark green hues with lighter green markings, reminiscent of a rattlesnake's skin. These plants are known as 'prayer plants' due to their leaves' circadian movement, raising and lowering throughout the day and night. Calathea Rattlesnake is an excellent air purifier, capable of filtering indoor air and absorbing toxins. It thrives in bright, indirect light and prefers consistently moist soil with high humidity, making it a captivating addition to any indoor space.
$29.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
7611
/ 10298
#7611 in Potted Houseplants
Price vs Category Average
-43%
Below average
Grow in Zones
49911
/ - Patios / - Outdoors
Who it's for
- Home decorators seeking unique plant aesthetics
- Plant enthusiasts who appreciate dynamic botanical features
- Pet owners wanting safe, beautiful indoor greenery
Who should skip it
- Busy individuals living in dry climates
- New plant parents learning proper watering techniques
- Gardeners preferring low-maintenance, pest-resistant plants
Key Specs
Grow in Zones
4-9 Patios / 9-11 Outdoors
Growth Rate
Moderate
Mature Height
2-3 feet
Pet Friendly
No
Air Purifying
Yes
Placement Location
Indoor
Foliage Color
Dark Green with light green markings
Drought Tolerant
No
Features
- Striking rattlesnake-like leaf patterns
- Unique leaf movement (nyctinasty)
- Air purifying qualities
- Tolerates low light conditions
- Adds tropical elegance
- Easy to care for
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the vibrant health and robust condition of these prayer plants upon arrival. Many highlight the careful packaging, ensuring the plants reach their new homes undamaged and thriving. The lush foliage and striking patterns are frequently admired, contributing significantly to their aesthetic appeal. Buyers appreciate receiving a plant that immediately enhances their space, often exceeding expectations for size and vitality. This consistent quality and beautiful presentation are key drivers of positive feedback.
Know before you buy
This is a natural behavior called nyctinasty. The plant adjusts the position of its leaves in response to light cycles, folding them upward at night and lowering them during the day.
No, this plant is not considered pet-friendly. It is best to keep it in a location that is inaccessible to curious pets.
No, it actually prefers bright, indirect light. Direct sun can scorch the leaves and fade their unique markings, though it is hardy enough to tolerate lower light conditions.
You should aim for a weekly watering schedule. The plant prefers consistently moist soil, so ensure the top layer of soil stays slightly damp but not waterlogged.
It depends on your climate. While it can be kept on patios in zones 4-9, it is only suitable for year-round outdoor growth in zones 9-11 where temperatures remain consistently warm.
Yes, the Calathea Rattlesnake is an effective air purifier. It helps filter common indoor toxins, making it a functional and aesthetic choice for your living space.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.