Genus Information
Calathea is a Genus of plants that are found in the humid understory of tropical forests throughout the Americas. They are known as Prayer Plants due to their ability fold their leaves up during the night and then unfurl them in the morning in order to access the filtered sunlight on the forest floor. Kept for their varied and vibrant foliage they will not flower indoors despite flowering in their natural habitat.
Care Requirements – Moderate
Light requirements
Calathea insignis also known as Calathea lancifolia likes to be in an area with bright sunlight, however direct sunlight may scorch its leaves so direct midday sun should be avoided.
Watering requirements
Rattlesnake Plants like to be kept in moist conditions although it is important that they have good drainage as they won’t be happy sitting in water. The best method to create these conditions is to water the plant little and often.
Humidity requirements
Calathea insignis requires a location with high humidity such as a kitchen or a bathroom. It can survive in a location with normal humidity if misted regularly.
Growth
Rattlesnake Plants will reach a height of 0.5-1m and will reach a spread of around 0.1-0.5m and are fast growers.
Origin
Calathea insignis is native to South America.
Flowering
Calathea insignis does not produce flowers when grown indoors.
Foliage
Rattlesnake Plants produce green and purple foliage and have an upright habit. This plant is considered non-toxic.