Calathea makoyana, the peacock plant, carries oval leaves painted with dark green featherwork over a pale ground, with deep purple undersides. Like all prayer plants, the leaves fold upward at night and open again each morning, so the plant is quietly in motion.

Give it bright, indirect light, never direct sun, and keep the soil evenly moist without going soggy. Humidity is its main request: a pebble tray, humidifier, or bright bathroom keeps the leaf edges clean. Filtered water helps, as calatheas dislike hard tap water.