Rick, a Calathea Rattlesnake or Calathea Lancifolia, is definitely a show-off. His bright green leaves with deep green strokes, in the shape of lances, are sure to draw every eye in the room.
Native to the rainforests of South America, the Calathea, Prayer Plant, and Maranta families, have unique leaf movements whereby they actually raise and lower their leaves from day to night as if getting ready for bed!
And, if that wasn’t impressive enough, they’re also great at purifying the air!
Rick, Baby Calathea Rattlesnake
Rick prefers bright indirect light to partial shade, without prolonged exposure to direct sun - a touch of morning sunlight wouldn’t go a miss.
If you’re not sure what level of light you have, check the shadows cast by your plant:
- Minimal shadow = lower light
- Half shadow = indirect light
- Full shadow = direct sun