Calathea Lancifolia Rattlesnake

Calathea Lancifolia Rattlesnake, plants are not generally considered the best option for a beginner's houseplant collection. They have very particular heat, light, and moisture requirements. However, it can be worth the extra effort when you see the beautiful ornamental leaves the plant produces.
 
Because this plant has large leaves, you may be tempted to use commercial leaf shine to give the foliage an extra boost. This can cause browning of the tips of the leaves, so you should stick with a simple damp cloth to remove any dust or debris instead.
Although this plant grows in shaded outdoor landscapes in Hawaii and some southern parts of California and Florida, it is most commonly kept as a houseplant or in greenhouses or terrariums. This tropical native needs a lot of heat and humidity to thrive.
 
Light
Filtered light is the best option. If you want to place your rattlesnake plant in a window, select one that doesn't have intense afternoon sun streaming through it, or diffuse the light with drapes. A bright spot in a well-lit room works well.
 
Soil
Choose a well-draining soil. Although these plants can't handle standing water, they like to be kept moist. A light sandy soil or a potting mix of two parts peat moss and one part perlite works well. Rattlesnake plant prefers slightly acidic or neutral pH levels, but alkaline soils should be avoided.
 
Water
Over the summer, when your rattlesnake plant experiences the most growth, it needs to be watered frequently to keep the soil or potting mix moist. During the winter season, allow the top layer of soil to dry out before watering again.
Rattlesnake plants don't tolerate waterlogged conditions; if the leaves start to turn yellow, you may be overwatering. Conversely, if the leaves begin to curl unattractively they aren't receiving enough water.
 
Frequent small waterings are required rather than deep irrigation. Water the plant until it just starts to trickle out of drainage holes (do not water so much that it is streaming out of the bottom). Do not let the plant sit in the excess water. Pour the excess water out and do not pour it back into the plant.