Calathea Makoyana

Calathea mokoyana

Scientifically called the Calathea makoyana, the Peacock plant is a stunning indoor plant with patterned leaves that resemble the delicate feathers of a peacock. These eye-catching variegations come in a variety of hues ranging from green, pink, cream, white, and gray, a quality that greatly adds to its allure along with its pet-friendly nature.

3 Unique Features of the plant makes it distinctive :

1. Distinctive Appearance

The Peacock plant is characterized by its striking foliage with vibrant patterns reminiscent of peacock feathers. It has large, broad leaves with intricate markings, including hues of green, purple, and sometimes pink.

1. Air Purification

Like many indoor plants, the Peacock plant contributes to air purification by filtering out toxins and improving indoor air quality. Its broad leaves help to absorb commonly found pollutants such as formaldehyde and benzene, common in indoor environments.

1. Stress Reduction

Caring for indoor plants like the Calathea Makoyana Peacock plant has been shown to reduce stress and promote a sense of well-being. The act of nurturing and observing the plant's growth can have calming effects, enhancing the ambiance of living and workspaces.

Growing Conditions: 

• Sunlight-Partial Shade, Low-Light Tolerance : The Calathea Peacock plant thrives in low to moderate light conditions, making it suitable for indoor settings with limited sunlight exposure. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight to prevent leaf burn and maintain the vibrancy of its foliage
• Watering-Medium, Maintain consistently moist soil without waterlogging it. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely between waterings, as this can lead to leaf curling and browning.This is a tropical plant and cannot stand having dry soil at any point. Water with room temperature, filtered water to avoid chlorine or fluoride damage to the sensitive roots and foliage.
• Soil-Sandy soil, use a well-draining, peat-based potting mix to provide adequate moisture retention without waterlogging the roots. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and compost can create an ideal growing medium for the peacock plant. The soil needs to be well-drained as the Peacock plant cannot handle wet feet or waterlogging.

Temperature-20 to 30 degree C.  Indirect or filtered light is preferable, as direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.

• Fertilizer-Apply any organic fertilizer.
• Humidity Requirements : As a tropical plant, the Calathea Makoyana requires high humidity levels. Mimic the high humidity of its native tropical environment by regularly misting the leaves or placing a humidity tray nearby. Avoid placing your plant near drafts or vents as it can cause the air to dry out and harm the foliage.
• Pruning and Maintenance Remove any yellowing or damaged leaves as soon as you see them in order to maintain the plant's appearance and prevent the spread of disease. Regularly dust the delicate leaves of the Peacock Plant with a damp cloth to keep them clean and free from dust buildup, which can hamper with its photosynthesis process.

Repotting : Calathea are not necessarily fast-growing plants and even healthy specimens likely only need to be repotted every other year. During repotting, gently remove plant from its old container, shake roots clean, and place into new container with fresh potting soil. Divide the plant during repotting to increase your stock. Repot in the spring, before the growing season starts.