Calathea makoyana

Calathea makoyana, commonly known as the Peacock Plant, is an elegant houseplant with beautifully patterned foliage. Its pale green leaves feature dark green, feather-like markings and rich purple undersides, creating a display that looks almost hand-painted.

Supplied in a 14cm nursery pot at approximately 50cm tall, it brings generous greenery and intricate detail to a sideboard, plant stand or bright bathroom. Its upright, leafy shape makes it a lovely focal point, while its pet-friendly credentials add to its appeal.

What Makes the Peacock Plant Special?

The Peacock Plant takes its name from the elaborate markings on its leaves, which resemble the patterns of a peacock's feathers. The contrasting purple undersides add another layer of colour, particularly as new leaves unfurl.

Part of the prayer plant family, it gently changes its leaf position through the day and night, often lifting its leaves in the evening. Botanically known as Goeppertia makoyana, it is still widely sold under its familiar name, Calathea makoyana.

Light & Position

Choose bright, indirect light, sheltered from strong direct sunshine. A spot near an east- or north-facing window can work well, provided there is plenty of natural light.

Avoid dark corners and hot, sunny windowsills. Good filtered light will help you enjoy the intricate leaf patterns at their best.

Watering

Keep the compost evenly moist but never soggy during spring and summer. Check regularly and water as the surface begins to dry, allowing excess water to drain away before returning the plant to its decorative pot.

Water less frequently during autumn and winter, allowing the surface to dry slightly between waterings without letting the whole root ball dry out.

Use room-temperature water. Rainwater is a good choice, particularly if your tap water is hard.

Humidity & Temperature

The Peacock Plant enjoys warm, humid conditions. A bright bathroom can be ideal, or use a humidifier to provide more consistent humidity in a dry room.

Aim for a steady temperature of around 16–21°C, keeping the plant away from cold draughts, radiators and open fires.

Feeding

Feed approximately once a month during spring and summer with a balanced liquid houseplant fertiliser, following the product's dilution instructions. Avoid feeding during autumn and winter when growth slows.

Growth & Care

Calathea makoyana forms a leafy clump, with new growth gradually unfurling on slender stems. Gently wipe the leaves with a soft, damp cloth to remove dust and show off their detailed markings.

Remove faded leaves with clean scissors. Repot in spring or summer when the plant has filled its nursery pot, using a moisture-retentive but free-draining, peat-free houseplant compost.

This plant rewards a little regular attention, making it a lovely choice for someone who enjoys checking in on their houseplants.

Why You'll Love It

• Intricate, peacock-inspired leaf patterns
• Pale and deep green foliage with purple undersides
• Leaves that gently change position through the day and night
• Non-toxic to cats and dogs
• A beautiful focal point for a bright, humid room
• Supplied at approximately 50cm tall in a 14cm nursery pot

Pet & Child Safety

Calatheas are considered non-toxic to cats and dogs, making the Peacock Plant a pet-friendly choice. It is still an ornamental plant rather than a food plant, so discourage pets and young children from chewing the foliage.

Plant Details

Botanical Name: Goeppertia makoyana
Also Known As: Calathea makoyana
Common Name: Peacock Plant
Nursery Pot Size: 14cm
Approximate Height: 50cm
Fits Decorative Pot Size: 16cm+
Growth Habit: Upright / clump-forming
Position: Indoors
Pet Friendly: Yes

Each plant is naturally unique, so leaf markings, shape and size may vary slightly.

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