Rattlesnake Calathea Goeppertia insignis

The Rattlesnake Plant is a herbaceous perennial evergreen, native to Brazilian rainforests, with striking foliage and showy yellow flowers. Because it is a tropical plant and not frost hardy, it is typically grown as an indoor houseplant in most North American sites. The leaves, in particular, provide winter interest with wavy margins, purple undersides, and an alternating pattern of small and large green ellipses. The plant form is fountain-like with a spreading habit. 

Plants typically grow to 1 1/2 feet tall indoors, but can rise to 2 1/2 feet tall outdoors. The markings on each leaf resemble the markings found on some rattlesnakes, hence the common name for this plant. On plants grown outdoors, yellow flowers bloom from late spring to early summer in 2 to 4 inch long conical spikes. The genus name comes from the Latin word calathus meaning basket in reference to the inflorescence looking like a basket of flowers.

The Rattlesnake plant can be difficult to care for properly because of its humidity requirements; but when grown indoors it is typically used for accent, as a specimen in indoor settings, or in large terrariums or greenhouses because of its attractive leaves. Flowers rarely appear on indoor plants. For best results growing indoors, provide a uniformly moist environment in a well-drained, peaty potting mixture at room temperatures ranging from 65 to 75 degrees F. in limited sun to bright shade locations. Rattlesnake Plant does not tolerate full sun, drafts, or sudden temperature changes. It will tolerate early morning sun or diffused sun. To provide the required high humidity consider standing a potted plant in a bed of wet pebbles, misting the foliage regularly or growing the plant in a humidified room. During the growing season (spring and summer), water regularly to keep soils moist (but not wet) and apply a balanced fertilizer monthly. Reduce watering and fertilization in winter when plant growth typically slows down. Note that a sign of low humidity is leaves that roll or brown up.

Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems:  No serious disease/pest problems. Watch for aphids, scale, mealybugs and spider mites. Overwatering can result in fungal leaf spots. Yellowing of the leafs can be a result of underwatering or overwatering.