At a glance
- Light
- Medium / indirect light
- Typical interval
- Every 6 to 8 days (summer)
Every 11 to 17 days (winter) - Climate
- 18–27 °C
- Humidity
- 60–80 %
- Pet safety
- Not confirmed pet-safe
- Scientific name
- Calathea makoyana
When and how much water
Water peacock plant when the top 3 cm of soil feel dry to the touch. In summer that’s typically every 6 to 8 days. In winter, slow down to every 11 to 17 days. Use room-temperature water and let any excess drain. Never leave the pot sitting in standing water.
Adjust the timing for the light at the plant, the pot’s size and material, and the humidity indoors. Terracotta dries faster than glazed ceramic.
Light and placement
Peacock plant thrives in bright, indirect light. Direct midday sun can scorch the leaves. Place it 1–2 meters back from an east or west window, or behind a sheer curtain on a south window.
Feeding
Feed peacock plant every 30 days while it’s actively growing. Use a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer at half the strength on the label, and only on soil that’s already damp. Feeding dry roots can scorch them.
When growth pauses, skip the fertilizer and let it rest.
Temperature & humidity
Peacock plant is comfortable between 18 and 27 °C. Below 15 °C the leaves start taking damage, so keep it clear of cold drafts and unheated rooms.
It does best at 60–80% humidity. It doesn’t need misting.
Common problems
Yellowing, drooping, and dry edges often point to watering or drainage. Compare the signs before changing the routine.
Find what’s wrong
Not confirmed pet-safe
Pet-safety information in the JungleBook uses ASPCA reference data where available. It is reference information, not veterinary advice.
Common questions
How often should I water a Peacock plant?
Water your peacock plant (Calathea makoyana) when the top 3 cm of soil feel dry to the touch. In summer, that’s typically every 6 to 8 days. In winter, slow down to every 11 to 17 days.
How much light does a Peacock plant need?
Peacock plant thrives in bright, indirect light. Direct midday sun can scorch the leaves. Place it 1–2 meters back from an east or west window, or behind a sheer curtain on a south window.
Is Peacock plant safe for cats and dogs?
Peacock plant is not listed in the ASPCA’s toxic and non-toxic plant database, so we cannot confirm it is safe for cats and dogs. Keep it out of reach of pets, and call your vet if your pet chews it.
Why are my Peacock plant’s leaves turning yellow or drooping?
On a peacock plant, yellowing and soft growth usually mean overwatering: watch for yellowing leaves, soft mushy bases, or root rot. Let the soil dry further between waterings and check drainage. If you see crispy leaf edges, curling leaves, or dramatic drooping instead, it’s likely thirsty. Water a little more often. With Botanicaly Pro, Botanicaly Bot can help assess visible signs from a photo and suggest possible causes.
Sources
- This guide follows established plant-care guidance and official ASPCA pet-safety references. How we verify our plant data →
Last reviewed: 2026-09-21
