Goeppertia makoyana (Peacock Plant)

Calathea makoyana (Peacock plant) green leaves with dark markings on a foliage plant close up

Calathea makoyana (Peacock plant) has broad oval leaves with distinct dark strokes and light color

Botanical names: Goeppertia makoyana, Calathea makoyana, Maranta makoyana

Common name: Peacock Plant

Family: Marantaceae

Origin: Brazil

USDA Zone: 10-11

Plant form: Groundcover or low-growing

Sun exposure: Semi-shade; shade

Cold tolerance: Frost sensitive. Protect from freezing.

Watering: Keep soil moist

Suitable for: Outdoors in the suitable USDA zone; small gardens, containers, and indoor growing

Foliage color: Ornamental foliage

Goeppertia makoyana, commonly known as peacock plant or cathedral windows, is a tropical evergreen perennial in the Marantaceae family, native to Brazil. Its former name, Calathea makoyana, remains much better known and is still widely used in horticulture and the houseplant trade. The plant forms compact clumps of thin, broadly oval leaves marked with an intricate feather-like pattern of dark green blotches against a pale green to silvery background. The leaf undersides are purplish to reddish purple, with the upper-surface pattern repeated in darker tones, creating a stained-glass effect when light passes through the foliage. Plants typically remain about 1-2 ft tall and are grown primarily for their striking leaves.

Goeppertia makoyana prefers bright filtered light, warm temperatures, high humidity, and loose, organic-rich, well-drained soil. Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged, and avoid prolonged drying, which can cause leaf margins to brown or curl. Direct sun may scorch or fade the patterned foliage. It is best suited to frost-free conditions in USDA Zones 10b-11 and is widely grown elsewhere as a container or indoor plant.

See Article - How to grow Calathea indoors.