Scientific name: calathea makoyana (makoy's basket-plant).

Common name: peacock plant goeppertia, cathedral windows.

Origin: native to eastern brazil.

Description: the patterns of this calathea's leaves give it its various common names, being compared to a peacock's tail or cathedral windows due to the varying shades of shimmering green across its leaves. Watch with excitement each a new leaf grows through, maturing from pale green to richer, darker foliage and creating a miniature forest of gorgeous leaves. The peacock plant will repay your care with stunning foliage; give it a humid location not too far from a window and you'll enjoy its leaves for a long .

Light: thrives in bright, indirect sunlight; this calathea is not tolerant to darker corners.

Water: allow the top few inches of soil to dry out in between watering; if possible, use rainwater rather than tapwater, or at least allow tap water to sit out for 24 hours to allow chemicals in it to settle. Water with tepid or lukewarm water to avoid shocking the plant.

Humidity: this plant needs high humidity, so will appreciate regular misting and not being too close to a radiator or other heat source which might dry it out.

Soil: plant in fast draining, but moisture retentive soil. A mix with added bark or perlite would be ideal. Repot every two years in spring, and water a day in advance to combat transplant shock.

Food: feed every four waters in the growing season, reduce to every six in autumn and winter. Pre-water the soil before applying 'ready to use' products to protect the roots.

Sprouts Top Tips: You can pinch out the topmost growths of this plant to promote bushier growth and keep your plant looking amazing!