Family: Marantaceae
Common Name: Calathea makoyana, Cathedral Windows, Peacock Plant
Botanical Name: Calathea (Geoppertia) makoyana
You know when you order a latte and the barista makes that gorgeous leaf pattern on top of the froth -- so beautifully you hesitate to drink it? Thank the makoyana, the plant with the leaf pattern that launched a million lattes and counting. The underside of the leaf has dark rose variegation, providing the perfect contrast to the intricate patterning on top. Give these indoor plants a little extra humidity and a watchful eye for the best results. Learn how to care for your Peacock Plant.
Light
The ideal spot for a Peacock Plant is where it will receive medium to bright indirect light. Aim to have your Calathea makoyana receive 4-6 hours of indirect sunlight daily as this will help it develop into a full and dense plant! Calathea species can handle low light, but increased light can help maintain the vivid colors and patterns on the foliage. Direct sunlight can be damaging and may cause colors to fade.
Water
Calathea maoyana needs to be consistently watered. Thoroughly water these indoor plants when the top inch of the soil is dry letting the soil partially dry out before you water it again. Peacock Plants do best in well-draining soil and in containers with drainage.
The type of water used can make a difference when it comes to watering prayer plants. Tap water may contain different minerals or compounds that can be damaging to the leaves. Brown edges along the leaves can be an indication that the water is high in salt or contains chlorine, chloramine, bromide, or fluoride. Use filtered or distilled water, or water collected from a dehumidifier if you suspect tap water is not suitable for your Calathea makoyana.
Soil
All prayer plants, including makoyana love loose, nutrient-rich potting soil. Use a soil medium that can retain moisture but also allows for draining excess water to avoid root rot. Most pre-mixed soils will suffice. Make sure that there is plenty of organic matter, like coco-coir, peat moss, or shredded leaves, and avoid soils that contain moisture retaining crystals. If your soil drains too quickly, we recommend re-potting your calathea into a compost-rich soil mixture, with less drainage materials. Learn how to create your own universal soil mixture for all your indoor plants!
Temperature
As tropical plants, Calathea makoyana like warmer temperatures. Average room temperature above 65°F is fine, but these indoor plants won't mind if it gets warmer and the temperature creeps closer to 85°F. The higher the temperature the more you will need to monitor the soil for dryness!
Avoid placing Calathea makoyana near exterior doors, drafty windows, and vents, particularly during the colder months. Make sure to avoid placement near heating vents during the warmer months.
Humidity
High humidity is a must-have for most prayer plants. The leaves may begin to curl, or the edges will turn brown and dry out if they do not receive enough humidity. Calathea makoyana indoor plants do well in a kitchen, bathroom, or any area with extra moisture in the air. Using a humidifier or a pebble tray with water can help give Calathea makoyana the extra dampness they crave. Learn how to increase the humidity in the air around your indoor plants!
Fertilizer
Fertilizing your Peacock Plants can help promote new growth and even blooms depending on the variety. A complete liquid fertilizer diluted to 1/4 the recommended strength is a good option. Fertilize your Peacock Plants every 2-3 weeks during the growing season. Another option is to top dress your plants in the spring with compost (like worm castings). This will slowly release nutrients to the roots throughout the growing season. These indoor plants should not be fertilized during the colder months when the plant is dormant. Learn how and when to fertilize your houseplants!
Growth Rate
A mature Calathea makoyana can reach a height of 2’+. It develops rapidly from March to October, depending on your location, climate and care!
Pet Friend or Foe
Calathea makoyana is non-toxic to pets! Friend.
Pro Tips
- Calathea makoyanas are moisture-loving plants, but over-watering is still a concern and can introduce a whole host of problems. Making sure the plants receive lots of bright indirect light can help regulate the dampness while helping the plant thrive.
- Don't be too worried if you notice the leaves beginning to curl or the stems of your Calathea makoyana drooping. These are signs of dehydration. It's important to pay attention to these indicators, but these hardy houseplants can bounce back within a day or so after receiving water.
- Calathea makoyana can only be propagated through division. These plants naturally propagate themselves by expanding their root system and sending new shoots up through the soil. When a mature plant is re-potted, gently separate the roots to divide the main plant into several smaller plants. Each new plant can be potted in its own container. Given time and proper care, those new plants will fill in.
- Rotate your calathea to promote a full, balanced indoor plant.
- Always check the leaves (top and bottom) during your care sessions. Check for unwanted guests (pests and diseases) and clean with room temperature water.
- Learn how use neem oil to prevent or remove pests!