Peacock Plant vs Pittosporum Plant Comparison
Compare these two plants side by side — care needs, key differences, and which is right for your home.
Peacock Plant
Calathea makoyana
Calathea makoyana, commonly known as the Peacock Plant, is a striking tropical perennial prized for its ornamental foliage. It features large, oval leaves with intricate patterns of dark green markings against a pale green background, resembling peacock feathers. The undersides of the leaves are a rich purple. It grows in a clumping habit, reaching about 2 feet tall indoors. While it can be grown indoors, it requires specific conditions to thrive, mimicking its native humid environment. It's popular for its visually appealing leaves and ability to add a touch of the tropics to indoor spaces.
Pittosporum
Pittosporum spp.
Pittosporum is a genus of evergreen shrubs and trees known for their glossy, leathery leaves and often fragrant flowers. They range in size from small shrubs to medium-sized trees, depending on the species. Pittosporums are primarily grown outdoors for their attractive foliage, which can be green, variegated, or even purple. Their dense growth habit makes them popular for hedging, screening, and ornamental landscaping. While some species can tolerate indoor conditions for a short period, they generally thrive outdoors with ample sunlight and air circulation. The appeal lies in their versatility and relatively low maintenance when planted in suitable climates.
Quick Plant Comparison
| Feature | Peacock Plant | Pittosporum |
|---|---|---|
| Light | Bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves. | Full sun to partial shade. Requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight outdoors. Indoors, a south-facing window is necessary but often insufficient. |
| Watering | Every 5-7 days, depending on environmental conditions | Outdoors: Every 1-2 weeks, depending on weather. Indoors: Every 10-14 days, but monitor soil moisture closely. |
| Humidity | 60-80% | 30-50% |
| Temperature | 20-24°C | 15-24°C |
| Care Level | Moderate | Expert |
| Growth Rate | Moderate | Moderate |
| Max Height | 0.6 meters | Outdoors: Up to 10 meters. Indoors: Rarely exceeds 2 meters and is unlikely to thrive long-term. |
| Pet Safety | ❌ Toxic To Pets | ❌ Toxic To Pets |
| Soil | Well-draining potting mix with peat moss, perlite, and coco coir | Well-draining soil mix. A blend of potting mix, perlite, and sand is suitable. |
| Beginner Friendly | With Caution | ❌ No |
| Weekly Maintenance | 15 minutes weekly | 30 minutes monthly (pruning, fertilizing, pest control). |
🔬 Botanical Information — Comparing These Plants
Peacock Plant
| Scientific Name | Calathea makoyana |
|---|---|
| Family | Marantaceae |
| Native To | Espírito Santo state of eastern Brazil |
| Also Known As | Peacock Plant, Cathedral Windows |
| Leaves | The leaves are large, oval-shaped, and feature intricate patterns of dark green markings against a pale green background. The undersides of the leaves are a rich purple. The leaves have a slightly waxy texture. |
| Flowers | Calathea makoyana rarely flowers indoors. When it does, the flowers are small and insignificant, not the main attraction of the plant. |
Pittosporum
| Scientific Name | Pittosporum spp. |
|---|---|
| Family | Pittosporaceae |
| Native To | Australia, New Zealand, East Asia, and parts of Africa |
| Also Known As | Pittosporum, Cheesewood, Japanese Pittosporum, Mock Orange |
| Leaves | The leaves are typically oval or lance-shaped, with a glossy, leathery texture. They range in color from light green to dark green, and some varieties have variegated foliage with cream or yellow margins. Leaf size varies depending on the species, but they are generally 5-10 cm long. |
| Flowers | Pittosporum produces small, fragrant flowers, typically in spring or early summer. The flowers are often white or cream-colored and may be followed by small, round fruits. Flowering is rare indoors. |
📏 Size & Growth — Plant Comparison
Peacock Plant
Pittosporum
🌱 Propagation — Comparing Plant Growth
Peacock Plant
Methods: Division
Difficulty: Moderate
Tips: Divide the plant at the roots during repotting in spring. Ensure each division has healthy roots and leaves. Plant in fresh potting mix and keep humid.
Pittosporum
Methods: Stem cuttings, Seed
Difficulty: Moderate
Tips: Take semi-hardwood cuttings in late spring or early summer. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and provide humidity.
✨ Benefits & Features — Comparing Plant Value
Peacock Plant
The Peacock Plant is known for its striking leaf patterns that resemble peacock feathers. Its leaves also exhibit nyctinasty, folding upwards at night and unfolding during the day, adding to its unique appeal.
- ✓ Adds a vibrant and exotic touch to indoor spaces.
- ✓ Provides a calming and relaxing atmosphere.
- ✓ Can improve indoor air quality (though not NASA confirmed).
- ✓ Offers a unique visual appeal with its intricate leaf patterns.
- ✓ Can be a conversation starter due to its distinctive appearance.
- 🌬️ NASA-verified air purifier
- ⚠️ Toxic to pets
Pittosporum
Pittosporum's unique characteristic is its glossy, evergreen foliage, which provides year-round visual interest. Some species also offer fragrant flowers, adding to their appeal. The plant's adaptability to pruning makes it ideal for shaping into hedges or topiaries.
- ✓ Provides privacy with dense foliage.
- ✓ Adds visual interest with glossy leaves and fragrant flowers.
- ✓ Requires minimal watering once established.
- ✓ Attracts pollinators to the garden.
- ✓ Offers a versatile landscaping option for hedging, screening, or specimen planting.
- ⚠️ Toxic to pets
📅 Maintenance Schedule — Plant Care Comparison
Peacock Plant
Pittosporum
🌞 Light Requirements
Peacock Plant
Bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
Low light tolerant: ❌ No
Pittosporum
Full sun to partial shade. Requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight outdoors. Indoors, a south-facing window is necessary but often insufficient.
Low light tolerant: ❌ No
💧 Watering Needs
Peacock Plant
Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Water when the top inch of soil feels slightly dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause the leaves to curl and brown. Use distilled or filtered water to avoid mineral buildup.
Pittosporum
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering causes leaf drop. Ensure good drainage.
🌡️ Temperature & Humidity
Peacock Plant
Temperature: 20-24°C
Humidity: 60-80%
Pittosporum
Temperature: 15-24°C
Humidity: 30-50%
🤔 Which Plant Is Right For You?
Peacock Plant
Calathea makoyanaExperienced plant enthusiasts who can provide the necessary humidity and consistent care.
✅ Choose This Plant If...
- You love plants with striking foliage patterns.
- You are willing to provide high humidity.
- You have experience caring for tropical plants.
- You want to add a touch of the tropics to your indoor space.
- You are looking for a plant that is relatively compact.
❌ Skip This Plant If...
- You struggle to maintain high humidity levels.
- You tend to overwater plants.
- You have pets that might ingest the plant.
- You are a beginner plant owner.
Pittosporum
Pittosporum spp.Gardeners in mild climates looking for an attractive and versatile evergreen shrub for hedging or screening.
✅ Choose This Plant If...
- You live in a mild climate with plenty of sunshine.
- You need a plant for hedging or screening in your garden.
- You appreciate fragrant flowers.
- You want a relatively low-maintenance evergreen shrub.
- You have experience with outdoor gardening and pest control.
❌ Skip This Plant If...
- You live in a cold climate with harsh winters.
- You are looking for an easy-to-grow indoor plant.
- You have pets that might ingest the plant.
- You don't have a sunny outdoor space.
- You dislike pruning and shaping plants.
🎯 Quick Verdict
⚡ Key Differences Between These Plants
Peacock Plant is rated Moderate care level, while Pittosporum is Expert.
💡 Pro Tips For Comparing These Plants
Peacock Plant Care Tips
Calathea makoyana requires consistent moisture, high humidity, and bright, indirect light. It is sensitive to tap water and temperature fluctuations. Maintaining proper humidity is crucial for preventing brown leaf edges. It can be challenging for beginners due to its specific needs.
- Use distilled or filtered water to avoid mineral buildup on leaves.
- Maintain high humidity by using a humidifier or pebble tray.
- Wipe leaves regularly to remove dust and improve photosynthesis.
- Avoid placing near drafts or heating vents.
- Rotate the plant regularly to ensure even growth.
Pittosporum Care Tips
Pittosporums are primarily outdoor plants that struggle indoors due to high light requirements and the need for good air circulation. Maintaining adequate light and preventing pests are the biggest challenges. It's best suited for outdoor landscaping.
- Plant in well-draining soil to prevent root rot.
- Provide ample sunlight for optimal growth and flowering.
- Prune regularly to maintain shape and size.
- Protect from frost in colder climates.
- Monitor for pests and diseases and treat promptly.
⚠️ Common Problems & Solutions — Plant Care Comparison
Peacock Plant
Pittosporum
❓ Frequently Asked Questions — Comparing These Plants
Peacock Plant
What are the light requirements for Peacock Plant?
Peacock Plants thrive in bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can damage their delicate leaves, causing them to scorch and fade. An east-facing window is often ideal, providing gentle morning light. If placed near a south- or west-facing window, use sheer curtains to filter the light. Insufficient light can lead to duller leaf patterns and slower growth. Observe your plant closely; if the leaves appear pale or bleached, it’s receiving too much light. If the leaves are losing their vibrant patterns, it may need more light. Regularly rotate the plant to ensure all sides receive adequate light exposure. Artificial grow lights can supplement natural light, especially during winter months or in darker spaces.
How do I care for Peacock Plant?
To successfully care for a Peacock Plant, provide bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry, using distilled or filtered water to avoid mineral buildup. Maintain high humidity levels, ideally above 60%, through regular misting, a humidifier, or placing the plant on a pebble tray filled with water. Keep the temperature between 65-80°F (18-27°C). Fertilize monthly during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Repot every 1-2 years in spring using a well-draining potting mix. Regularly check for pests and address any infestations promptly. Prune any yellow or brown leaves to maintain the plant’s appearance and health. Rotate the plant periodically to ensure even growth. Avoid placing the plant near drafts or heat sources.
How do I propagate Peacock Plant?
Peacock Plants can be propagated through division, stem cuttings, or air layering. Division is the most common method. To divide, carefully remove the plant from its pot and gently separate the root ball into sections, ensuring each section has healthy roots and foliage. Repot each section into its own pot with fresh potting mix. Stem cuttings can be rooted in water or directly in soil. Take a cutting with at least one node and place it in water until roots develop, then plant it in soil. Air layering involves encouraging roots to grow on a stem while it is still attached to the parent plant. Once roots have formed, the stem can be cut and planted. Maintain high humidity during propagation to encourage root growth.
Pittosporum
What are the light requirements for Pittosporum?
Pittosporum thrives in bright, indirect light. Insufficient light can lead to leggy growth and reduced foliage density. An east-facing window is often ideal, providing gentle morning sun. A south-facing window can also work, but be sure to filter the light with a sheer curtain to prevent leaf scorch. North-facing windows may not provide enough light, especially during the darker months. Rotate the plant regularly to ensure even light exposure on all sides. If natural light is inadequate, supplement with artificial grow lights. Place the grow lights 12-18 inches above the plant. Observe the plant for signs of light stress, such as pale leaves or stunted growth, and adjust its location accordingly.
How do I care for Pittosporum?
Pittosporum prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, ensuring good drainage to prevent root rot. Use a well-draining potting mix. Maintain moderate humidity levels, especially during dry indoor conditions. Fertilize every 2-4 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Prune regularly to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Repot every 1-2 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound, into a slightly larger pot. Monitor for pests such as aphids and spider mites, and treat promptly if detected. Provide stable temperatures, avoiding sudden fluctuations or drafts. Ensure proper air circulation around the plant. Wipe the leaves occasionally to remove dust and maintain their shine.
How do I propagate Pittosporum?
Pittosporum can be propagated through stem cuttings or air layering. For stem cuttings, take a 4-6 inch cutting from a healthy stem. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix and keep it moist. Cover with a plastic bag or humidity dome to maintain humidity. Roots should develop in 4-6 weeks. For air layering, make a small cut on a healthy stem and wrap it with moist sphagnum moss. Cover the moss with plastic wrap and secure it with tape. Keep the moss moist. Roots should develop in a few weeks. Once roots are visible, cut the stem below the rooted area and plant it in a pot. Ensure the pot is the correct size and the plant is secured.
Last updated: April 28, 2026 — Plant care data reviewed and verified by our editorial team.