Peacock plant care guide
How to keep peacock plant healthy at home: how much to water it, the light it needs, and how to catch common problems early.
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 (64–81 °F)
- Humidity
- 60–80%
- Pet safety
- Pet-safe (non-toxic)
- Scientific name
- Calathea makoyana
When and how much water
Water your peacock plant when the top 3 cm (1 in) 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 your 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 (64–81 °F). Below 15 °C (59 °F) 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
Toxic to pets?
No. Pet-safe.
Peacock plant is non-toxic to cats and dogs. Safe to keep in a home with pets.
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 (1 in) 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 non-toxic to cats and dogs. Safe to keep in a home with pets.
Why is my peacock plant 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, “Ask about this plant” 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 →
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