The Story
Common name: Peacock Plant
Latin name: Calathea makoyana (often classified as Goeppertia makoyana)
Best position in the home: Thrives in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can fade its intricate leaf patterns. Ideal for a warm, humid spot such as a bathroom, or a well-lit room with soft, filtered light.
Water requirements: Keep the soil consistently lightly moist, but not waterlogged. Water when the top layer begins to dry out. Prefers rainwater or filtered water where possible. Enjoys higher humidity, so misting or a pebble tray is beneficial.
Home impact: With its beautifully patterned leaves resembling peacock feathers, this plant adds elegance and interest to any space. It helps create a calm, tropical atmosphere. Generally considered non-toxic, making it suitable for homes with pets.
Potential height at full growth: Typically grows to around 30–60cm in height, with a similar spread.
How to look after it: Place in bright, indirect light and maintain even moisture in the soil. Avoid letting it dry out completely or sit in water. Feed monthly during spring and summer with a balanced houseplant fertiliser. Keep in a warm, humid environment and away from draughts. Repot every couple of years and wipe leaves to keep them dust-free.
Beginner friendliness 2/5
Needs a Bit of Know-How! This Calathea can be a little fussy about humidity and watering. With the right conditions, it thrives, but it may show signs of stress if the environment isn’t consistent.
Like other Calatheas, its leaves gently move throughout the day in response to light. Brown edges can indicate low humidity or inconsistent watering, so it benefits from a steady care routine.
Description
Common name: Peacock Plant
Latin name: Calathea makoyana (often classified as Goeppertia makoyana)
Best position in the home: Thrives in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can fade its intricate leaf patterns. Ideal for a warm, humid spot such as a bathroom, or a well-lit room with soft, filtered light.
Water requirements: Keep the soil consistently lightly moist, but not waterlogged. Water when the top layer begins to dry out. Prefers rainwater or filtered water where possible. Enjoys higher humidity, so misting or a pebble tray is beneficial.
Home impact: With its beautifully patterned leaves resembling peacock feathers, this plant adds elegance and interest to any space. It helps create a calm, tropical atmosphere. Generally considered non-toxic, making it suitable for homes with pets.
Potential height at full growth: Typically grows to around 30–60cm in height, with a similar spread.
How to look after it: Place in bright, indirect light and maintain even moisture in the soil. Avoid letting it dry out completely or sit in water. Feed monthly during spring and summer with a balanced houseplant fertiliser. Keep in a warm, humid environment and away from draughts. Repot every couple of years and wipe leaves to keep them dust-free.
Beginner friendliness 2/5
Needs a Bit of Know-How! This Calathea can be a little fussy about humidity and watering. With the right conditions, it thrives, but it may show signs of stress if the environment isn’t consistent.
Like other Calatheas, its leaves gently move throughout the day in response to light. Brown edges can indicate low humidity or inconsistent watering, so it benefits from a steady care routine.
