Basic Rattlesnake Plant Care
We aren’t surprised that Rattlesnake Plants are becoming popular in the houseplant world as they are very easy to care for. Below you’ll find all the information you need to properly care for your Rattlesnake Plant.
| Light |
Low LightI prefer a shady spot as too much sunlight will damage my leaves. |
| Water |
Water ModeratelyI don’t like my soil to be too dry or too soggy. Little and often is what I’m after. |
| Humidity |
Medium HumidityPlease make sure the air isn’t too dry, otherwise I won’t be a happy plant. |
| Soil |
Potting SoilI need soil specifically for indoor plants as it retains the right amount of water. |
They are a great low-light plant
One thing we really love about Rattlesnake Plants is that they don’t need a lot of light to be happy. They will thrive well in medium to low light areas of your home. Direct sunlight is a definite no-go as it will scorch the leaves pretty quickly! Use a light meter if you aren’t sure where to place your plant.
Rattlesnake Plants like moist soil
It is important to not let your Rattlesnake Plant’s soil get waterlogged. Water more frequently in the growth period of spring and summer. In winter, we recommend only watering your Rattlesnake Plant when the top of the soil is very dry to touch. You can also use a moisture meter to check the soil before watering.
Rattlesnake Plants prefer warmer temperatures
Although they won’t necessarily die if your home is a little cooler, Rattlesnake Plants definitely like warmer rooms. Try to keep them away from drafty windows and doors as the cold air from outside may cause shock.
Try to keep the humidity up
Rattlesnake Plants like a spot with slightly more humidity. We recommend misting your plant in warmer months using a spray bottle, using a humidifier or growing it in your kitchen or bathroom where humidity levels are naturally higher. You can find out more about raising the humidity for your plants in our guide.
Only fertilise your Rattlesnake Plant in the growth period
As with the majority of other houseplants, Rattlesnake Plants do not need fertilisation in winter. You will get the best results if you use a general houseplant fertiliser every month or so during spring and summer. Our plants really love this feed from Miracle Gro.
Rattlesnake Plants are safe for pets and humans
Another reason why we love Rattlesnake Plants is that they are non-toxic for pets and children. So you don’t need to worry about moving it out of the way.
Propagate a Rattlesnake Plants using division
The best method to propagate your Rattlesnake Plants is through dividing the mother plant into several new plants. As long as each plant has a good bit of the main root system, your propagation should be successful. Be careful when handling the roots to minimise damage.
Rattlesnake Plant FAQs
Quick and simple answers to the most common questions we see about the Rattlesnake Plant .
Is the Rattlesnake Plant toxic?
Although their name doesn’t suggest it, the Rattlesnake Plant is completely safe and non-toxic for pets and humans. So you don’t need to worry about putting it out of reach.
Can a Rattlesnake Plant tolerate direct sunlight?
Direct sunlight is a no-no when it comes to caring for your Rattlesnake Plant as it will dry out and burn the plant. In fact, they actually make good low light houseplants as they can thrive in medium to low light areas.
Is the Rattlesnake Plant easy to care for?
Yes, the Rattlesnake Plant is a super low maintenance houseplant as they will thrive in a range of environments.
How often should I water my Rattlesnake Plant?
Whilst you want to increase how much or how often you water your Rattlesnake Plant during summer, you still need to make sure that the potting mix has enough time to dry out between waterings. Monitor the moisture in the soil to find out how often you need to water as it will depend on each individual plant.
Does the Rattlesnake Plant purify the air?
Yes, it is believed that the Rattlesnake Plant absorbs some level of toxins which will help purify the air in your home. Just another reason to love them!
Common Problems with your Rattlesnake Plant
Here are some common issues that you might run into. It's important to diagnose any issues early to give your plant the best chance of bouncing back.
Why are my Rattlesnake Plant's leaves curling?
If you notice the leaves on your Rattlesnake Plant are starting to curl, this is often due to either a lack of water or not enough humidity in the air. Slightly increase the frequency of your watering and occasionally mist your plant if you are not already as this may stop the leaves from curling. We also recommend using a humidifier to increase the humidity around your plant.
Why are there are brown leaf tips on my Rattlesnake Plant?
Brown leaf tips on a Rattlesnake Plant are most commonly due to underwatering or a lack of humidity. Slightly increase the frequency of your watering and occasionally mist your plant using a spray bottle or use a humidifier if you are not already.
Why is my Rattlesnake Plant wilting?
If you find that your Rattlesnake plant has started to wilt, you may be overwatering. Check the moisture in the soil using a moisture meter and replace with a high-quality potting mix if waterlogged. Reduce your watering and keep an eye on the moisture levels in the soil. We also recommend adding drainage holes to the pot if there aren’t any or switching to terracotta pots.
