Goeppertia makoyana

Peacock Plant, Peacock Calathea, Cathedral Windows, Brain Plant, Calathea makoyana

Moderate careTerrestrialNon-toxic30–60 cm

Named for its leaf pattern, which echoes the eye-spots on a peacock's tail. This Brazilian understory species has thin, oval leaves with dark green feathered markings on a pale green background and purple-red undersides. It does best in the warm, humid conditions of a closed terrarium, where steady moisture and indirect light mirror its native rainforest floor habitat.

Build a terrarium with this plant
Peacock Plant image

Photo by Mickaël Schauli·CC BY-SA 4.0

Care

Prefers high humidity, indirect light, with 16–24 °C, and reaches 60 cm at maturity.

Light

Indirect light(preferred)Shade tolerant

Humidity

High (60–80%)(preferred)Very high (80%+)

Temperature

10°C25°C40°C
16°C – 24°C

Soil

Peat moss(preferred)Well draining

Moisture

Moist(preferred)

Soil pH

5.5 – 7

Propagation

Divide the rhizome during repotting in late spring. Each division should have several stems and healthy roots. Dividing every two years can help maintain vigour.

Native range

Native to Brazil.

Appearance

Growth habit

ClumpingUpright

Leaf shape

Oval

Leaf texture

Smooth

Frequently asked

Can Peacock Plant grow in a closed terrarium?

Yes. Peacock Plant prefers high (60–80%) humidity, which is what a closed terrarium provides, and tolerates indirect-light-loving conditions.

Does Peacock Plant need drainage?

Peacock Plant prefers a moist substrate. Drainage is helpful but not critical; consistent moisture matters more.

What humidity does Peacock Plant need?

Peacock Plant does best in high (60–80%) humidity.

Is Peacock Plant pet-safe?

Peacock Plant is considered non-toxic to common household pets.

How tall does Peacock Plant grow?

Peacock Plant typically reaches 30–60 cm at maturity.

How do you propagate Peacock Plant?

Peacock Plant can be propagated by division.

References

  1. 1

    Kew Plants of the World Online

    https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/60461041-2
  2. 2

    NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox

    https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/goeppertia-makoyana/
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