The genus Calathea contains several species, known for their beautiful leaves, and some are called “prayer” because their leaves grow and curl overnight. Calathea makoyana, often a tropical plant, is commonly known as the peacock plant because of its distinctive peacock-like shape.
The leaves offer the most pleasing shades of green, cream, pink, white and attractive shapes like the tail of a peacock. The stems are reddish-brown, with purple leaves beneath. While they produce small, tiny flowers, the peacock plant is valued primarily for its leaves.
Peacock plants thrive in warm, humid conditions away from bright sunlight and can grow indoors or outdoors at appropriate temperatures. For outdoor use, they are suitable for ground covers, borders and opaque containers for patios.
Peacock plant care requires attention to specific requirements. Adequate filtered light, high humidity and proper watering are important. These plants prefer shade or full shade to prevent leaf blooming. Well-drained, moist soil with organic matter is recommended.
It is important to balance watering, as signs of under-watering are drying of the leaves and over-watering can cause rotting of the roots. Additionally, humidity levels are prioritized, and watering frequency should be reduced during the winter dormant season. Distilled or rainwater is preferred due to fluoride sensitivity, and the water temperature should be warm or room temperature.
It is important to maintain the ideal temperature between 60ºF – 75ºF to avoid sudden temperature changes and drafts. High humidity levels are necessary for healthy growth, including things like sprinkling, using a humidifier, or placing charcoal under the pot to add moisture. When properly cared for, peacock plants produce stunning foliage, making them an impressive addition to any collection.