How to Grow and Care for Calathea Makoyana [+Facts, History, and More]

The calathea makoyana, also known as the peacock plant, is a captivating houseplant prized for its stunning foliage. With its mesmerizing, variegated leaves that seem to shift and change throughout the day, this small species of prayer plant brings a touch of the tropics indoors.

This comprehensive covers everything you need to know about this captivating plant, from its fascinating past to growing and caring for it. We’ll also explore the ideal growing conditions, propagation, benefits, and expert tips on how to tackle the common problems with the calathea makoyana.

Jump to a section:

Calathea Makoyana Profile and Facts

The calathea makoyana features large, oval leaves intricately patterned with deep green, light green, and white. The leaves’ undersides are a lovely shade of purple, making it even more alluring. 

As the plant matures, its leaves grow larger and become more impressive, resembling the intricate stained glass of a cathedral, hence the nickname cathedral windows.

This houseplant exhibits a fascinating phenomenon known as nyctinasty, meaning the plant responds differently to different light levels. 

At night, the leaves gracefully rise upwards, showcasing the undersides, which are a beautiful burgundy hue. As dawn approaches, they gracefully unfurl, revealing their daytime splendor once more.

What’s more, Marantaceae plants, including calatheas, are known for their nyctinastic movement, which some believe resembles praying hands – thus the moniker “prayer plants.”

The peacock plant is also relatively easy to care for, making it a popular choice for both seasoned plant enthusiasts and beginners alike. 

With proper light, humidity, and watering, this tropical wonder can thrive indoors, bringing a touch of the rainforest’s vibrancy to your living space.

Calathea Makoyana Facts Table

Fact	Description
Botanical Name	Calathea makoyana
Common Names	Peacock Plant, Cathedral Windows
Family	Marantaceae
Native Area	Brazil
Light Requirements	Bright, indirect light
Watering	Keep soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged
Soil	Well-draining potting mix
Humidity	High (around 60-70%)
Temperature	65-75°F (18-24°C)
Fertilizer	Monthly during the growing season
Propagation	Division
Toxicity	Non-toxic to pets and humans

Origin and History of the Calathea Makoyana

The calathea makoyana’s story begins in the lush rainforests of eastern Brazil, where it thrives on the dappled sunlight filtering through the rainforest canopy and the consistently high humidity. 

Nestled amongst the rich flora and fauna, this plant carpets the forest floor, adding its unique beauty to the vibrant ecosystem.

Indigenous people have long admired and cultivated calathea makoyana for its beauty and symbolism. In its native habitat, it plays a role in local ecosystems, providing ground cover and maintaining soil moisture levels. 

The exact timeline of when the calathea makoyana first made its way into human cultivation remains unclear.

However, there’s evidence suggesting that these captivating plants found their way into European greenhouses and botanical gardens sometime in the late 19th or early 20th century. 

Their unique foliage and intriguing nyctinastic movement likely captivated horticulturists and plant enthusiasts, leading to their popularity as ornamental plants.

In recent years, the peacock plant has seen a surge in popularity as a houseplant. 

The rise of indoor gardening trends and the increasing appreciation for unique and visually striking foliage have made this rainforest wonder a coveted addition to many homes. 

With its relatively manageable care requirements and undeniable beauty, the calathea makoyana continues to captivate plant lovers worldwide.

As it found its way into homes around the world, the calathea makoyana has become a symbol of elegance and tranquility.

Calathea Makoyana Features and Characteristics

The number one factor that the calathea makoyana is renowned for is its visually striking foliage. The leaves are thin and delicate, with a unique pattern that resembles the feathers of a peacock. 

The upper surface of the leaves is light green with dark green feather-like markings, while the undersides are a contrasting deep purple. This dual coloration gives the plant an almost ethereal quality, especially when light filters through the leaves.

The plant grows in a rosette form, with new leaves unfurling from the center. 

Each leaf can grow up to 12 inches long and 6 inches wide, making it quite a showstopper. 

The peacock plant can reach a height of 2 feet, creating a lush, bushy appearance that adds a touch of the tropics to any indoor space.

How to Grow and Care for Calathea Makoyana

In its natural habitat, Calathea makoyana grows under the dense canopy of rainforests. It thrives in warm, humid conditions with dappled sunlight filtering through the trees. 

Replicating these conditions in your home is key to keeping your plant healthy and happy.

Light

Calathea makoyana thrives in bright, indirect light. 

Direct sunlight can be too harsh and cause the leaves to burn or lose their vibrant colors. 

Place your plant near a window with filtered light or in a spot that receives morning sunlight and afternoon shade. If you notice the leaves curling or browning at the edges, it might be getting too much light.

If natural light is insufficient, you can use grow lights to supplement it. Avoid harsh or direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.

Watering

Watering is a critical aspect of calathea makoyana care. 

This plant loves moisture but hates sitting in water. This means you should keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. 

Plus, water your plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. 

Try to use room-temperature, filtered water if possible, as tap water containing chlorine or fluoride may damage the leaves. 

Select a pot that has holes in the bottom for drainage. This will prevent water from building up and harming the roots.

Temperature and Humidity

This plant thrives in temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C). 

Avoid placing it in drafts or near vents, as sudden temperature changes can stress the plant. 

Also, high humidity is crucial for its optimal growth, so aim for 60-70% humidity. 

You can use a humidifier, mist the leaves regularly, or place the pot on a pebble tray with water to increase humidity levels.

Growing Mix and Soil Requirement

A well-draining potting mix is vital for your calathea makoyana’s health. 

Choose a well-draining potting mix that holds onto some moisture but allows excess water to drain freely.

A good recipe includes equal parts of peat moss, perlite, and a bit of orchid bark or charcoal. This combination ensures that the soil remains airy and well-drained, preventing root rot.

Feeding

Feed your calathea makoyana monthly during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. This will provide the essential nutrients the plant needs to grow and maintain its vibrant foliage. 

It is a good idea to make your own DIY nitrogen fertilizer instead of using chemical based alternatives.

Avoid fertilizing during the fall and winter months when the plant’s growth slows down.

Repotting

Repot your Calathea makoyana every 1-2 years to provide fresh soil and more room for growth. 

Choose a container that’s roughly 1-2 inches wider than your Calathea’s current pot.

Also, remember that spring is the ideal time to repot your Calathea, just before it starts growing actively again. 

After gently removing the plant from its current pot, carefully brush away the old soil from the roots. 

Next, inspect the roots for any brown or mushy patches, which indicate root rot. If you find any damaged areas, use sharp, clean tools to remove them. This will prevent the rot from spreading to healthy parts of the root system.

Place it in the new pot with fresh potting mix and water thoroughly.

Deadheading

Deadheading, or removing spent flowers, is not necessary for calathea makoyana as it rarely flowers indoors. 

However, if you do notice any yellowing or damaged leaves, you can prune them to encourage new growth and maintain the plant’s appearance.

Winter Care

During the winter months, your calathea makoyana will enter a period of dormancy. 

This is the time to reduce watering and stop fertilizing because the plant needs rest. 

However, ensure to keep it in a warm spot away from cold drafts and heating vents. 

Maintaining high humidity is still essential, so continue to mist the leaves or use a humidifier.

Pruning

Pruning helps keep your calathea makoyana looking its best. 

Use clean, sharp scissors to remove any yellowing or damaged leaves from your calathea makoyana.

This encourages new growth and prevents the plant from wasting energy on unhealthy foliage. 

How to Propagate Calathea Makoyana

Ready to multiply the magic of your calathea makoyana? 

Propagation allows you to create new plants from your existing one, sharing their beauty and fostering a thriving indoor jungle.

The best time to propagate calathea makoyana is during the spring or early summer when the plant is in its active growing phase. 

This gives the new divisions the best chance to establish themselves and thrive.

Propagation Steps Through Division

Follow these simple steps to propagate the peacock plant:

1. Gather a clean, sharp knife or garden scissors, fresh potting mix, and new pots for the divisions.

2. Gently take the calathea makoyana out of its pot, being careful not to damage the roots.

3. Carefully separate the root ball into smaller sections, ensuring each section has a healthy root system and a few leaves.

4. Pot each separated division individually using a fresh, well-draining potting mix.

5. Water the newly potted divisions thoroughly and place them in a warm, humid environment with indirect light. Keep the soil consistently moist as the new plants establish themselves.

Here’s a video showing how to propagate Calathea plants through division:

Benefits of Calathea Makoyana

Calathea makoyana offers several benefits beyond its striking appearance. 

This air-purifying champion helps remove common toxins like formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene, contributing to a healthier indoor environment.

Plus, the plant’s lush foliage can add a calming, tropical vibe to your home, enhancing your overall well-being. 

It’s also non-toxic to pets and humans, making it a safe addition to households with animals and children.

How to Tackle the Common Problems With Calathea Makoyana

Now, let’s have a look at the common issues with the peacock plant and how to manager them. 

Curling Leaves

Curling leaves can be a sign of underwatering, low humidity, or excessive light. 

Ensure you’re watering the plant regularly and maintaining high humidity. Move the plant to a spot with indirect light if it’s receiving too much direct sunlight.

Brown Tips on Leaves

Brown tips are often caused by low humidity, over-fertilization, or poor water quality. 

Increase humidity levels, reduce the frequency of fertilization, and use filtered or distilled water.

Drooping Leaves

Drooping leaves can indicate overwatering or underwatering. 

Regularly check the soil moisture level (ideally with your finger) and can tailor your watering schedule accordingly. 

Ensure the plant is not sitting in water by using a well-draining pot and soil mix.

Leaf Pattern Fading

Fading leaf patterns usually result from too much direct sunlight. 

Move the plant to a location with bright, indirect light to preserve its vibrant patterns.

Pest and Disease Control

Calathea makoyana is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can occasionally be affected by:

• Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause webbing and leaf discoloration. Increase humidity and wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to remove them. Use insecticidal soap if necessary.

• Aphids: These small insects can be found on new growth. You can get rid of aphids by spraying the plant with water or using insecticidal soap. 

• Root Rot: Caused by overwatering, you can prevent root rot by ensuring well-draining soil and proper watering practices. If you suspect root rot, remove the plant from its pot, trim off affected roots, and repot in fresh soil.

Companion Planting for Calathea Makoyana

Companion planting can enhance the beauty and health of your calathea makoyana. 

Consider pairing it with plants that have similar care requirements:

1. Philodendron: These plants thrive in similar light and humidity conditions, making them excellent companions. Some examples include philodendron birkin, philodendron Brasil, and Pink Princess Philodendron. 

2. Ferns: Ferns, like the Boston fern, also love high humidity and indirect light, complementing the peacock plant well.

3. Pothos: Pothos plants are low-maintenance and share the same watering needs, creating a lush, green corner when planted together.

When arranging your plants, make sure each one has enough space for air circulation to prevent mold and mildew. 

Grouping plants with similar needs can also help create a microenvironment that maintains higher humidity levels, benefiting all your tropical plants.

How and Where to Buy Calathea Makoyana

You can purchase calathea makoyana from various sources, including the following:

1. Local Nurseries and Garden Centers: Visit a local nursery to personally inspect the plant’s health before buying.

2. Online Plant Stores: Many reputable online stores specialize in houseplants and offer a variety of calatheas. Ensure you read reviews and check return policies before purchasing.

3. Plant Expos and Markets: These events can be great places to find healthy, unique varieties of calathea makoyana and get advice from experienced growers.

When buying your peacock plant, look for vibrant leaves without any signs of pests or disease. A healthy plant will have a robust root system and show new growth.

Calathea Makoyana Alternatives

If you’re intrigued by calathea makoyana but want to explore other options, consider these alternatives:

1. Calathea Orbifolia: Known for its large, round leaves with silver stripes, this calathea offers a similar dramatic appeal.

2. Calathea Lancifolia (Rattlesnake Plant): Features long, wavy leaves with unique patterns, adding texture to your indoor garden.

3. Maranta Leuconeura (Prayer Plant): With its fascinating leaf movement and beautiful patterns, the prayer plant is a close relative and equally stunning.

Each of these alternatives has similar care requirements, making them perfect for adding variety to your collection without drastically changing your care routine.

Conclusion

Growing and caring for calathea makoyana can be a rewarding experience. 

With its striking foliage and relatively easy care needs, this plant can become the centerpiece of your indoor garden. 

Now that you know its origin, ideal growing conditions, and how to tackle common issues, you’ll be well on your way to growing this beautiful houseplant.

FAQ

Is calathea a good indoor plant?

Yes, calathea is an excellent indoor plant. Its striking foliage adds beauty to any space, and it helps purify the air by removing toxins. 

With proper care, it thrives indoors, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced gardeners.

Is calathea makoyana toxic to cats, dogs, and humans?

No, calathea makoyana is non-toxic to cats, dogs, and humans. This makes it a safe addition to households with pets and children.

Does Calathea purify air?

Yes, calathea plants, including calathea makoyana, help purify the air by removing harmful toxins like formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene. This makes them not only beautiful but also beneficial for your indoor environment.