The Peacock Plant, whose scientific name is Calathea makoyana, is one of the most attractive plants you can plant indoors. The name of this plant was generated from its leaves, which have colors close to that of the feathers of a peacock. Other names include the Beauty Plant, Wild Plant, Brazilian Plant, and orchid plant.

Despite its seemingly exotic and delicate appearance, the Peacock Plant is fully capable of growing indoors if you learn how well it should be taken care of. In a comprehensive manner, all that you need to know when it comes to caring for a Peacock Plant is contained in this guide.

1. Understanding the Peacock Plant

It is pertinent to learn about a Peacock plant’s natural background before acquiring knowledge about how to take care of it.

Origin

Originally from Tropical rainforests of Brazil

Environments: It grows in tree canopies with filtered sunlight

Prefers a warm and humid environment

Why It’s Special

Decorative foliage showing striking patterns

Leaves also tend to shift ever so slightly from the daytime to the night positions (this is

Pet-friendly (Non-toxic to cats and dogs)

2. Location Considerations
   Now that you

Light Needs

Peacock plants likes bright, indirect light.

Best Light Conditions:

Close to an east or north-facing window

Behind sheer curtains

Well-lit rooms but without direct sunlight

Avoid:

Direct Sunlight (Burning Leaves)

Low light for extended periods (leads to fading and sluggish growth)

Tip:

If the patterns on the leaves begin to fade, the plant requires more indirect light.

3. Watering the Peacock Plant

Watering is the most important aspect when taking care of the Peacock Plant.

How Often to Water

Water when the top 1-2 inches of the soil are dry

Usually once or twice a week, depending on the climate.

Type of Water

Peacock Plants are highly intolerant of pesticides.

Best Options:

Filtered water

Rainwater

Distilled water

Avoid:

Hard tap water (may cause brown leaf tips)

Watering Technique

Water slowly until the water drains from the bottom

Pour out the saucer to prevent root rot

Indicators of Inadequate Irrigation

Overwatering – Yellow leaves, soft roots

Underwatering: Curled leaves, dried edges

4. Humidity: The Key to Healthy Growth

Peacock Plants prefer very humid environments, like the humid conditions found in tropical rainforests

Humidity Level: Discusser

60-80

“Ways to Increase Humidity”

To humidify heifer or

Plant on pebble tray w/ water

Collect plants together

Light misting (not too much)

Tip:

Edges of leaves being brown indicates that the humidity is low.

5. Requirements Related to

Peacock plants are tolerant of warmth.

Breadths of Character/Ont

18°C to 27°C (65°F to

Avoid

Cold drafts

Air conditioners blowing directly

Below 15°C (59°F)

Rapid changes in temperatures might be stressful to the plant.

6. Soil Requirements

It makes it easier to retain moisture and prevents it from becoming too saturated.

Best Soil Mix

Well-dr

Moisture

Slightly acidic to neutral

Recommended Mix:

40% peat or coco coir

30% perl

30% potting soil

This blend promotes good aeration with adequate moisture retention.

7. Choosing the Right Pot

Pot Type

Plant pots that have holes should always be used

Clay pots facilitate drying of soil

General Structure

Plastic pots are able to preserve moisture longer

Pot Size

Pick a pot 1-2 inches larger than the root ball size

If it’s too big, water retention and root rot can become a problem

8. Repotting the Peacock Plant

Peacock Plants require subtle fertilizer application.

Fertilizer Type

It generally has the fertilizer formulation 10-10-10

Diluted to half strength

Fertilizing Schedule

After every 4 weeks in spring and summer seasons

Refrain from fertilization during the fall and winter months

Over-Fertilizing

Brown leaf tips

White salt accumulation in soil

9. Pruning & Maintenance

Why Prune

Peels diseased or yellowed leaves

Promotes new growth

Improves appearance

How to Prune

Cut using clean scissors

Cut leaves at the base

Do not harvest more than 25% in one session

It is important to wipe leaves regularly with a damp cloth to remove dust and help photosynthesis.

10. Repotting the Peacock Plant

When to Repot

Every 1-2 years

Roots growing out of drainage holes

Soil dries out too quickly; this

Best Time

Spring or early summer

Repotting Process

Carefully extract the plant from the old pot.

Loosen roots gradually

Put in fresh soil

Water thoroughly

11. Propagation of Peacock Plant

Peacock Plants are not propagated via cuttings, but by division.

Best Time

During repotting in spring

Steps

Take plant from pot

“Separate the root clumps carefully

Ensure all leaves in a division are in contact with roots

Plant in separate pots

Water and keep warm and humid

Expansion may require some time; therefore, patience is essential.

12. Common Problems and Solutions
13. Brown Edges on Leaves

Low humidity

Hard water

Over-f

Solution: Increase humidity and use filtered water.

2. Yellow Leaves

Evergreen

Inadequate Drain

Solution: Allow soil to partially dry out and ensure proper drainage.

3. Curling Leaves

Underwater

Low humidity

Solution: Irrigate well and increase humidity.

4. Faded Leaf Patterns

Too much or too little light.

Solution: Shift plant loc.

13. Pests & Diseases

They are relatively hardy plants and may be susceptible to some pests.

Common Pests

Spider mites

Sample

Aphids

Treatment

Wipe Leaves with Neem Oil

Use Insecticidal soap

Raise humidity level to prevent mites

Disease Prevention

Do Not Overwater

Care should be taken to provide adequate air

Use clean pots and tools

14
Seasonal Care Tips

Spring & Summer

Active Growth Phase

Drink water

Fertilize monthly

Maintain high humidity

Fall & Winter

Growth decelerates

Cut back on watering

Stop Fertilizing

“Keep plant warm.”

15. Advantages of Peacock Plant Growth

Enhances indoor décor

Enhances air quality

Pet.safe

Calming and Stress-Rel

Suitable for bedrooms and living rooms

16. Expert Tips for Success Finally, turn the plant periodically so that it grows evenly. Never let the soil dry out. “Use room-temperature water Notice the Leaves; They Indicate Needs of the Plant Do not change location often Conclusion Peacock Plant: This is an elegant plant for interior decorations and requires lush and vibrant leaves as a result of proper care. Although this plant appears demanding to care for at first glance, knowing its tropical requirements makes the task much easier. You can enjoy this amazing plant for as long as you want with high indirect light, moisture, and temperatures. Patience and care, coupled with the instructions and tips given above, would enable a beginner to grow and keep a healthy Peacock Plant.