Plant Passport
Peacock Plant
Goeppertia makoyana
LightBright
Water7-10d
PetCheck
PP CALA THEA MAKO
Issued 2026 · Valid while cared for
Peacock Plant
Pauwenplant
Goeppertia makoyana
Also known as Calathea makoyana
“I am living stained glass: beautiful, but I notice every dry radiator.”
pet safechild safepatterned foliagebathroom planthumidity loving
- Light
- Medium light
- Water
- Keep lightly moist
- Pet safety
- Pet safe
- This month
- Finish the strongest growth flush with one more light feed. Review support or pruning needs for the rosette shape before tired leaves hide pests Cue: Oval translucent-looking leaves with painted dark feat.
August care tip
Finish the strongest growth flush with one more light feed. Review support or pruning needs for the rosette shape before tired leaves hide pests Cue: Oval translucent-looking leaves with painted dark feat.
Quick Care Summary
- Light
- Medium light
- Water
- Keep lightly moist
- Placement
- Best in medium to bright indirect light in a warm bright bathroom or plant group away from direct sun.
- Temperature
- 18–28°C
- Humidity
- high
Free printable Plant Passport card
Print, cut, and place this Peacock Plant card in the pot. Add the physical card if you want the finished version.
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Plant Passport
Peacock Plant
LightBright
Water7-10d
Botanical stake card
- Format
- 150 x 25mm
- Best for
- Slim plant stakes and gift pots
Use the card section above when you are ready to download or add a printed card.
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View holders →Detailed Care Guide
Watering Method
Water according to the roots, not the calendar: keep the mix lightly moist, never soggy, then drain fully.
Soil Mix
Loose houseplant mix with perlite, bark or coco chips for drainage and air.
Repotting
Repot in spring only when roots fill the pot; choose one size larger.
Pruning
Remove old leaves at the base and trim stretched stems in spring if needed.
Pot Preference
A pot with drainage holes; avoid oversized pots that stay wet too long.
Fertilizing
Feed lightly from March to September; use half-strength balanced fertilizer and skip winter feeding.
Draft Sensitivity
Keep above 18 C and away from winter draughts.
Sources consulted
- powo.science.kew.org
- www.aspca.org
- www.rhs.org.uk
Room Placement
Window Direction
East or west window, or filtered south light set back from the glass.
Best Room
warm bright bathroom or plant group away from direct sun
Monthly Care Calendar
Aug (now)
Finish the strongest growth flush with one more light feed. Review support or pruning needs for the rosette shape before tired leaves hide pests Cue: Oval translucent-looking leaves with painted dark feat.
Sep
Start reducing fertilizer and stretch watering as nights cool. Move Peacock Plant closer to bright filtered light before autumn light drops Cue: Oval translucent-looking leaves with painted dark feat.
Oct
Stop feeding and prepare for heating season. Set up humidity before edges crisp Cue: Oval translucent-looking leaves with painted dark feat.
Nov
Winter risk check: test soil before watering, inspect oval translucent-looking leaves with painted dark feather patterns and b, and keep the pot draining freely while growth slows Cue: Oval translucent-looking leaves with painted dark feat.
Watering Schedule
- Summer
- Every 5 days
- Winter
- Every 10 days
Feel below the surface and keep the mix lightly moist, never soggy before watering again.
Common Problems
Propagation
divisionmoderatespring
Propagate in spring from divisions or stem sections with a growing point; keep warm and lightly moist until established.
Pests & Diseases
Spider mites
Early signs
Fine webbing, speckled leaves and dull new growth.
Treatment
Rinse leaves and repeat insecticidal soap weekly while improving humidity.
Root rot
Early signs
Wilting despite wet soil and a sour smell from the pot.
Treatment
Remove damaged roots, repot in airy mix and water less often.
Buying Tips
Choose Peacock Plant with firm stems, clean new leaves and no sour smell from the pot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Fun Facts
Peacock Plant is often sold under older trade names, so the scientific name is the safest way to match care advice.
Origin & Natural Habitat
Tropical understory habitat with filtered light, warmth and moisture that drains away between rain events.
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