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Rattlesnake Plant

Goeppertia insignis

Calathea / GoeppertiaMood Meter: Drama Queen

Also called: Rattlesnake Calathea

Scientific Name History

Current accepted name: Goeppertia insignis

Previously or alternatively classified as:

Calathea lancifolia
Calathea insignis
Goeppertia lancifolia
Maranta insignis

How to identify it

Long narrow wavy-edged leaves with alternating dark oval markings and a purple/burgundy underside

Growing characteristics

Growth habit: upright clumping. Drought tolerance: low.

Same humidity-sensitive profile as other Goeppertia/Calathea. Distinctive purple/burgundy leaf underside.

Plant Mood Meter: Drama Queen

Like other Goeppertia, it responds quickly to dry air, inconsistent moisture, water-quality issues, and excessive light.

Care guide

Light

Medium to bright filtered light. Direct sun: Avoid strong direct sun.

Water

Keep lightly and consistently moist while maintaining drainage; avoid both prolonged drought and waterlogging.

Soil / substrate

Moisture-retentive but airy mix with good drainage.

Humidity

Moderate to high humidity is strongly preferred.

Support / growth

No support needed.

Problems Planticist can help with

UnderwateringOverwatering / poor aerationRoot rot / impaired rootsExcess light / sun scorchInsufficient light (etiolation)Normal lower-leaf senescenceLow-humidity stressPest damageFertilizer / mineral salt buildup

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