Description

Calathea makoyana, commonly known as the Peacock Plant, is a beautiful tropical houseplant prized for its intricately patterned foliage. Its pale green leaves feature dark green feather-like markings with attractive purple tones underneath, making it an excellent decorative plant for warm, softly lit indoor spaces.

💧 Watering

Keep the potting mix consistently lightly moist, allowing the top 1–2cm to dry slightly before watering again. Avoid both prolonged dryness and waterlogging.

Calatheas can be sensitive to minerals and salts in tap water. In Malta, where tap water can be hard, rainwater, filtered water, or low-mineral water is preferable where practical. Reduce watering slightly during winter as growth slows.

☀️ Light

Grow in bright, indirect light. Calathea makoyana can tolerate medium light but should be protected from direct sunlight, particularly Malta’s intense midday and afternoon summer sun, which can scorch or fade its patterned leaves.

A position near a bright window with filtered light is ideal.

🍃 Foliage / Growth

Calathea makoyana forms an attractive clump of broad, oval leaves decorated with dark green markings resembling a peacock’s feathers. The undersides of the leaves have reddish-purple colouring, adding further ornamental interest.

The leaves naturally move between day and night in response to changing light levels. Warm temperatures and good humidity help prevent crispy edges and maintain healthy foliage. Remove old or damaged leaves at the base when necessary.

🪴 Potting Mix

Use a fertile, airy potting mix that retains moisture while still draining freely. A combination of quality indoor plant compost, perlite, and fine orchid bark or coco coir works well.

Always use a container with drainage holes, as Calathea enjoys moisture but does not tolerate stagnant, waterlogged soil.

🌿 Fertilizer

Feed every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer diluted to half strength. Calatheas can be sensitive to excessive fertilizer and salt accumulation, so avoid overfeeding.

Reduce or stop fertilizing during autumn and winter when growth naturally slows.

🐕🐈 Pet Safety

Calathea makoyana is generally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs, making it an excellent choice for pet-friendly homes. However, excessive chewing should still be discouraged, as consuming large amounts of any plant material can cause mild digestive upset.

🌬️ Air Purifying

Calathea makoyana is sometimes promoted as an air-purifying houseplant, but there is limited evidence that individual plants significantly improve air quality under normal household conditions. It is best valued for its lush, decorative foliage and contribution to a greener indoor environment rather than as a substitute for proper ventilation.

*Pictures shown may vary from actual product due to the live nature of the items. Some items may be out of stock for various reasons, we will issue a refund or offer alternatives should that be the case.
The Price is per one individual plant.

**This plant is labeled as non-toxic to cats and dogs by the ASPCA. However, be advised that the consumption of any plant material may cause vomiting and gastrointestinal upset for dogs and cats. Sherries will not be held accountable to any symptom. If you believe that your animal is ill or may have ingested a poisonous substance, please contact a vet immediately.