Calathea Lancifolia, the Rattlesnake Calathea, native to Brazil is a member of the prayer plant family, Marantaceae. Calatheas are often called 'prayer plants' because of their unique leaf movements: they raise and lower their leaves from day to night as a part of their circadian rhythm. This phenomenon is called nyctinasty. Plant movements are controlled by a flux of water pressure in the pulvini - nodes at the base of the leaves. Scientists theorize that these movements are meant to follow the sun and catch as much light as possible an essential trait for a forest-floor-dwelling plant!
Care:
Bloom: Yellow, rarely flowers
Light: Bright indirect to low light
Moisture: Likes to dry out between watering, Water frequently with well draining soil
Humidity: Enjoys high humidity, Is the most tolerant calathea of lower humidity
Fertilizer: Once a month during the growing season.
Mature Size: 30in tall, 2ft wide
Habit: Compact Upright