Peacock Plant is one of the select plants displaying its beauty the best way. Thanks to the similarity with the peacock’s tail, it adds a charm to every spot and corner of a space. Aside from the general name, it is also called cathedral windows. That is why it is such an aesthetic plant just like the Heart of Jesus. Besides, it is native to Eastern Brazil. However, it can survive in any place where the growing conditions are optimal. By the way, Peacock Plant is always in high demand.
General Information
Peacock Plant generally has round variegated foliage with leaf pattern and thin light green stems coming out of the soil. The upper parts of the plant are glossy green, whereas the lower parts are purplish and maroon. Above all, the plant’s foliage is evergreen like Chinese Evergreen. Its sizes change according to its care in general. But it may reach up to 20 inches (50 cm). In terms of the life cycle, this plant is a perennial. So it can live up to many years with proper care under the correct conditions. As a striking feature, this plant closes its leaves when the weather darkens. It does the opposite at dawn. Meanwhile, pets are free to go because Peacock Plant is completely safe for them.
How to Care for Calathea makoyana
Sunlight: As with other plants, direct sunlight harms the plant’s foliage. So this plant prefers partial-shade locations getting scattered sunlight.
Watering: Calathea makoyana needs regular watering. At the same time, the potting should remain moist. So weekly watering will suffice when you notice the topsoil is dry. More importantly, the faucet water may harm this plant due to its containing fluoride. That is why distilled water is crucial.
Humidity: Over 50% humidity helps thrive better. To ensure the optimal humidity amount, there are a few means. Here, they are electronic humidifiers, wet pebble trays, and water sprays. Specifically, daily misting will be an alternative shortcut way.
Temperature: 60°F – 75°F ( 15°C – 24°C) is the best temperature range for Peacock Plant. Cold drafts and sub-zero temperatures wreak havoc on this species. Also, according to the USDA hardiness map, 10-11 numbers are the best zones to have it grown.
Soil Type: Potting mix components which are proportionately found in the pot are more effective on Peacock Plant’s growth. Specifically, peat-based ones are useful. The potting soils with high porosity ensure the plant breathes more comfortably.
Fertilizer: Balanced liquid fertilizers provide energy so that the plant can maintain its vital functions. So, this plant should be fed monthly in its growing season.
Propagation: The division is one of the most viable ways to propagate it. However, this way requires a little bit of attention. Because you can harm the mother plant while dividing the clumps.
Repotting: As usual, once two years in spring, transplantation requires. But you must water the day before to prevent any transplant shock. Also, the next pot should be larger than the existing one. For example, if you have an animal planter right now, you can change it with a pallet planter.
Common Problems
Root rot: This happens because of overwatering or drainage problems in general. When overwatering, the roots drown. Then they rot over time. When drainage problems, the stagnant water in the soil leads to rotting either.
Leaf scorch: Intense sunlight all day long scorches leaves.
Pest infestation: Red spiders, spider mites, aphids, scales, and other forms are a detriment to Parlor Palm. This problem occurs under low humidity conditions in general.
Suggestions for problems: Root rot means your plant is dead. The next time, you must be more careful about your watering regime. As I noted above, watering the plant weekly does not rot the plant’s roots. On the other hand, leaf scorch is serious. Semi-shade places getting filtered sunlight prevents such problems. Also, rotating the plant three times a week could work either. When it comes to pest infestation, in the very beginning, daily misting and cleaning leaves with a damp cloth prevent this problem. But if the problem should happen, you could use some means such as neem oil, bug repellent, and so forth.
