Rattlesnake Calathea Plant: Description and Taxonomic Specification
Also known as the prayer plant, the rattlesnake plant is a popular low-maintenance and air-purifying indoor plant that grows up to 2 feet tall and is ideal for container gardening.
The leaves of the plant fold upwards and resemble folded hands at night, giving it the popular name it has. Featuring the big green leaves with hints of purple on the underside, this houseplant is considered safe for pets.
Here is the taxonomy of the rattlesnake plant for a better understanding:
| Botanical name | Goeppertia insignis |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Zingiberales |
| Family | Marantaceae |
| Genus | Goeppertia insignis |
How to Care for the Rattlesnake Plant at Home?
Although the rattlesnake plant is easy to care for, to be on the safe side, take a look at these care tips for the best maintenance:
- Sunlight
Place the live Calathea plant in bright, filtered sunlight. Direct sun exposure can scorch the leaves.
- Soil
The rattlesnake prefers a well-draining soil mix with one part peat moss and perlite, and waterlogging can lead to root rot.
- Water
Water the plant consistently to keep the soil moist. Wait for the top inch of the soil to dry out in winter before watering.
- Fertiliser
Feed the plant with a balanced liquid fertilizer once a month in the growing season for healthy growth.
Benefits of the Rattlesnake Live Plant
Getting a live rattlesnake calathea plant has various benefits apart from adding a touch of nature to the house.
Take a look at the benefits of the Rattlesnake live plants:
- The plant thrives on low light, which makes the placement convenient and the care minimal.
- Rattlesnake is a pet-friendly plant, which ensures your furry friends are safe from toxicity.
- Along with enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the house, it also purifies the air, making it a popular houseplant choice with minimal care effort.
The unique rattlesnake print adds an exotic touch to the decor and fits all types of settings, personal or professional.
What are the benefits of a rattlesnake plant?
The benefits of the rattlesnake plant are that it is low-maintenance, pet-friendly, and air-purifying.
Is the rattlesnake plant called the prayer plant?
Yes, the rattlesnake calathea is called the prayer plant because its leaves fold upwards like folded hands at night.
Can I place the rattlesnake calathea plant in direct sunlight?
No, placing the Calathea plant in direct sunlight will lead to browning of leaves.







Mary Evans –
The plant arrived in the best condition with zero damage and looks lovely indoors.
Jonathan –
These indoor plants are really easy to care for and so far are doing great. I have placed them in filtered sunlight.
John –
The quality and the size are perfect and look lovely indoors. Almost fits all the decor styles.