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Calathea makoyana
IntermediateCalathea makoyana
A beautiful Calathea with peacock feather patterns on its leaves, also known as Peacock Plant. Performs nyctinasty, folding leaves at night.
About
Calathea makoyana, the peacock plant, is a perennial in the family Marantaceae, native to Brazil. Its striking oval leaves display an intricate pattern of alternating light and dark green lines radiating from the midrib on the upper surface — an arrangement that closely resembles the elaborate eye pattern of a peacock's feather — while the undersides are purple. Like other marantaceae, it folds its leaves upward at night in a nyctinastic sleeping movement. It thrives in bright indirect light; direct sun bleaches and damages the intricate patterns. Keep the soil consistently slightly moist; the plant is sensitive to both drought (which causes leaf curling) and waterlogging. Sensitive to chlorine in tap water — filtered or rainwater is ideal. Though demanding in its requirements, the peacock plant's extraordinary leaf artistry makes the effort thoroughly rewarding.
Size of the Calathea makoyana
The Calathea makoyana grows to 30-60cm.
Temperature & humidity for the Calathea makoyana
The ideal temperature for the Calathea makoyana is 18〜30℃. Ideal humidity is 60〜80%.
High humidity (above 60%) is essential.
Basic Info
Origin
Brazil
Lifespan
Perennial
Size
30-60cm
Temperature
18〜30℃
Humidity
60〜80%
Watering & Fertilizer
Liquid fertilizer 1-2x monthly in spring-fall
Growing Tips
Placement
Bright shade optimal. Direct sun burns leaves
Watering
Water when topsoil dries. Leaf misting also effective
Water quality
Sensitive to chlorine. Use filtered or settled water if possible
Temperature & Overwintering
Ideal range is 18-30°C. It is cold-sensitive, so keep it in a warm room in winter and mist or humidify to hold humidity above 60%.
Fertilizer
Feed liquid fertilizer once or twice a month from spring to autumn. Stop feeding in winter when growth slows and let the plant rest.
Notes
Leaves curl when dry. Maintain high humidity
Calathea makoyana FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Calathea makoyana?
Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Calathea makoyana?
The ideal temperature for Calathea makoyana is 18〜30℃. Recommended humidity is 60〜80%. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QHow large does Calathea makoyana get?
The mature size of Calathea makoyana is 30-60cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Calathea makoyana?
Calathea makoyana: watering & fertilizer — Liquid fertilizer 1-2x monthly in spring-fall. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Calathea makoyana?
The price of Calathea makoyana varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 25, 2026
Growing Specifications
- USDA Zone
- 11–12
Sources: Missouri Botanical Garden Plant Finder - Calathea makoyana
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Foliage plant. Confirmed by document review to be non-applicable to CITES Appendix (Flora), designated invasive species, or designated animals (the genus does not appear in the CITES flora section; Dracaena spp. listings in CITES refer to a reptile genus of the same name; the plant Dracaena is not applicable).
Sources: CITES Appendices I/II/III (flora section, grepped via dbca mirror) / CITES Appendices (official) / Ministry of the Environment List of Specified Invasive Alien Species
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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