Calathea ‘Makoyana’ Peacock

Each broad, oval leaf has an intricate pattern of dark green markings on a pale silvery-green background, mirroring the eyespots of a peacock feather, which is why it is also called the cathedral windows plant. The undersides are purple-maroon, and the clumping, upright growth style creates a sculptural presence that suits any bohemian indoor plant aesthetic. Calathea ‘Makoyana’ performs its most captivating trait at dusk and dawn: leaves fold gently upward when evening falls and reopen as daylight returns, a rhythmic nyctinastic movement.

Calathea ‘Makoyana’ is grown primarily for its foliage rather than its flowers, and indoor blooms are rare and modest when they appear.

Calathea ‘Makoyana’ naturally humidifies the air and actively filters formaldehyde and other indoor toxins. It grows well near kitchen moisture, settles inside a terrarium, and even grows under office LED lights when conditions are right. This houseplant is non-toxic, so households with curious cats and dogs can display it freely. It is sensitive to being moved.

Water it every 7 to 10 days, allowing the top inch of soil to dry slightly between waterings.

Calathea ‘Makoyana’ does best in a well-draining, moisture-retentive mix of peat or coco coir, perlite, and a little compost.

It prefers temperatures between 65 and 85F and cannot tolerate frost or temperatures below 55F.

Calathea ‘Makoyana’ is a moderate grower that benefits from diluted balanced liquid fertilizer applied monthly during spring and summer.

It is hardy in USDA zones 10 to 12, where temperatures rarely dip below 30 to 35F, and frost will damage or kill it outdoors. It grows year-round outside in Hawaii, southern Florida, and the southernmost tips of California and Texas. Warmer pockets of Louisiana, Georgia, South Carolina, Alabama, Mississippi, Arizona, and coastal areas of Oregon and Nevada can also support it seasonally, though most growers in these states treat it as a treasured indoor tropical.

Q: Is Calathea ‘Makoyana’ Peacock safe for cats and dogs?
A: It is non-toxic and safe for cats and dogs.

Q: Why are my leaves turning yellow?
A: Yellowing in Calathea ‘Makoyana’ Peacock is usually caused by overwatering, low humidity, or exposure to cold drafts from AC or heater vents. Check soil moisture, boost humidity, and move it away from direct airflow.

Q: Does Calathea ‘Makoyana’ need high humidity?
A: Yes. Place it near a kitchen, use a humidifier, or grow it inside a terrarium for the best results.

Q: How can I tell when it needs water?
A: Calathea ‘Makoyana’ wilts or curls its leaves slightly when thirsty. Stick your finger an inch into the soil; if the top inch feels dry, water it thoroughly.

Q: How do I propagate Peacock Plant?
A: Divide it at repotting time in spring by gently separating healthy offshoots with their own roots and potting them individually in fresh, well-draining mix.

Q: Which window direction is best for light?
A: Peacock Plant performs well in east or north-facing windows since they provide indirect light without the intense afternoon rays that cause scorching on south-facing sills.