Rattlesnake Plant

Rattlesnake plants should be watered pretty consistently. Allow the surface soil to dry out between waterings but do not let the plant dry out completely. To avoid blight, make sure to saturate the soil with water and then pour out any standing water that accumulates in the drainage tray. It is also important to feed the plant in spring and summer but not in winter.

Rattlesnake plants prefer low to medium light and should be kept away from direct sunlight. A north or east facing window is ideal in helping the leaves to keep color and for the plant to grow healthy. Prolonged direct sunlight is detrimental to the plant and will result in leaf scorch. In artificial light, the plant should be about 6 ft. away from the bulb.

Rattlesnake plants prefer temperatures between 65-80 degrees Fahrenheit and a minimum of 12°C (54°F). Avoid extreme temperatures because they can damage the foliage. If the temperature shifts drastically, this can cause the leaves to turn yellow and brown.

Rattlesnake plants prefer high humidity; however, they will still survive in dry air. During the summer, misting the leaves with water or placing the pot on a tray of wet pebbles or rocks will help increase moisture and humidity around the plant.

Rattlesnake plants need humus-rich, loose and well-draining soil. A good potting soil will contain equal parts peat moss, organic matter, and coarse horticultural sand for optimal drainage. Potting soil mixed with some perlite or bark chips works well too.

Rattlesnake plants should be fed with a balanced fertilizer during their growth period in spring and summer. Feed your plant with a liquid fertilizer diluted to one-quarter the recommended strength every two weeks. Avoid adding fertilizer during the rest period in autumn and winter.

Rattlesnake plants are susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale. To prevent an infestation, check the undersides of the leaves and the stem junction for any evidence of pests. If you spot any, you can try to manually remove them with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or with a commercial insecticide. Make sure to follow the instructions on the package.

Rattlesnake plants generally should be repotted once every two years in spring or summer. Avoid repotting when the plant is in its rest period as this can shock the plant. Make sure to pick a pot that is only a few inches larger than the current one and use soil specifically made for houseplants.

Rattlesnake plants don’t require much pruning, but it can be done to remove dead leaves or to keep the plant from becoming leggy. When you do prune, be sure to use sharp scissors and sterilize the blades with rubbing alcohol. Prune the dead foliage gently and avoid over-pruning as this can damage the plant.

Mulching is not necessary for Rattlesnake plants, but thick layers of organic mulch can help retain moisture in the soil and provide nutrients. Mulch also prevents weeds from developing in the soil around the plant.

Rattlesnake plants can be propagated by stem cuttings. Take a 4-6 inch cutting just below a leaf node and remove all the lower leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder before planting it in a moist, well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil damp but not soggy in order to encourage root growth. It may take several weeks for roots to form and a few more weeks for the stem to develop.

Rattlesnake plants prefer to be grown in pots and do not require any special support. You can use a stake if needed but proceed with caution as excessive use of stakes can make your plant appear unpleasing.

The Rattlesnake Plant goes through a winter rest period where it will stop growing and some leaves may turn yellow and dry out. Keep your plant in a cool and bright room with temperatures between 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit and reduce watering during this time.

Rattlesnake Plant is venomous and toxic to pets, such as cats and dogs. As a safety measure, keep pets away from it.