Product Overview
Calathea lancifolia
Cultivated
Calathea lancifolia is a refined tropical foliage plant admired for its elongated, gently undulating leaves, deep green patterning, and rich purple undersides that introduce movement and texture into interior spaces. Often called the Rattlesnake Plant, this cultivated variety belongs to the prayer-plant family—known for subtle leaf movement that responds to light and day-to-night rhythm.
Native to Brazil’s humid forest understory, Calathea evolved in filtered light with consistently moist soil and warm, stable air. Indoors, it performs beautifully when given bright indirect light, even moisture, and moderate humidity—the exact conditions that keep its foliage crisp, vibrant, and expressive.
Selected for the Eden Tropicals Cultivated collection, Calathea lancifolia offers a graceful, architectural silhouette that complements modern, organic, and design-forward interiors. With proper care, it rewards attention with active leaf movement and enduring ornamental appeal—an elevated foliage plant that feels curated, balanced, and intentionally styled.
Quick Care Snapshot
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Light: Bright, indirect light (tolerates medium). Avoid direct sun.
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Water: Keep lightly, consistently moist—never soggy.
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Humidity: Prefers 50–70% (the higher end looks best).
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Temperature: 65–80°F ideal; avoid drafts and temps below 60°F.
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Pet note: Generally considered pet-friendly.
Watering
Calatheas prefer consistency—think “even moisture,” not cycles of drought and flood.
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When to water: When the top ½–1 inch of soil feels dry.
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How much: Water thoroughly until a little drains out, then empty the saucer.
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Typical frequency:
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Spring/Summer: about every 5–7 days
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Fall/Winter: about every 7–10 days
(Always adjust to your home’s light, temperature, and airflow.)
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Best water: Filtered, distilled, or rainwater helps prevent brown tips from mineral-heavy tap water.
Light & Placement
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Ideal: Bright, indirect light near an east window or set back from a south/west window behind sheer light.
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Acceptable: Medium light (growth slows).
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Avoid: Direct sun on the leaves (can fade, crisp, or scorch).
Humidity & Environment
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Best range: 50–70% humidity for clean edges and richer color.
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If your home is dry, consider: a small humidifier, grouping plants together, or placing it away from vents/drafts.
Soil & Pot
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Soil: Airy + moisture-retentive (not heavy).
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Great blend: potting mix + perlite + a little orchid bark/coco coir.
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Pot: Always use drainage holes. Calatheas dislike “wet feet.”
Fertilizing
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Spring–Early Fall: Feed monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer at ½ strength.
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Late Fall/Winter: Pause or reduce (growth naturally slows).
Practical Tips (the ones that save plants)
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Leaf curl = usually needs water or humidity (check soil first).
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Brown tips = low humidity, inconsistent watering, or mineral-heavy water.
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Yellowing leaves = often overwatering or poor drainage.
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Rotate the pot every couple weeks for even growth.
Repotting & Growth
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Repot every 12–18 months (or when roots feel crowded).
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Calatheas are steady growers—more lush with consistent light + humidity.
Plant Size Guide
Pot size reflects the plant’s stage of maturity and root development. Larger sizes indicate older, more established plants.
