Calathea insignis, more widely known as the Rattlesnake Plant, is a foliage species from Brazil. Its leaves are long, narrow, and lance-shaped, patterned with alternating dark green blotches against a lighter green background. The undersides of the leaves are coloured deep purple, a common trait in the group. It grows naturally in shaded, humid forest environments and is cultivated worldwide as a decorative indoor foliage plant.
Distinctive Features
Leaves: Large, lance-shaped leaves with a light green base and a striking pattern of dark green, wavy lines. The underside of the leaves is a deep purple colour, adding to their visual appeal.
Growth Habit: This Calathea has an upright growth habit. It typically reaches a height of 45-60cm (18-24 inches) and forms a dense, colourful display.
Care Tips
Light: Bright, indirect light is best. Avoid harsh direct sunlight, which can scorch the delicate leaves.
Water: Keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. Allow the top layer of soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Humidity: This Calathea appreciates high humidity. You can increase humidity by using a humidifier, placing the plant on a pebble tray filled with water, or misting the leaves regularly.
Temperature: Maintain warm temperatures between 18-24°C (65-75°F). Avoid exposing this Calathea to cold draughts or frost.
Fertiliser: Use a diluted liquid fertiliser once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).
Propagation: This Calathea can be propagated through division. Simply divide the plant into smaller sections, ensuring each section has roots and foliage.
Shipping Schedule and Biosecurity Information
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Dispatch & Shipping Information
ALL STATES (including WA, NT, TAS): We now offer a universal, streamlined schedule with two dispatches per week for all regions. This schedule includes all necessary biosecurity treatment and processing for plants sent interstate.
Tuesday Dispatch: Orders placed by Sunday 11:59 PM AEST.
Friday Dispatch: Orders placed by Wednesday 11:59 PM AEST.
Orders placed after these cut-offs will be dispatched on the next available day.
Plant Health Certification (PHC) Fees:
$20 fee applies to WA orders.
$10 fee applies to NT and TAS orders.
This fee is per order (not per plant) and is included in your shipping cost at checkout. It covers the mandatory biosecurity treatments (ICA-29, PS-27, ICA-62) required for interstate compliance.
Important Note: We operate independently from Collectors Corner. For any enquiries, please refer to our Help Centre (Contact Page).
