The “camo plant” is a popular houseplant, known for its distinctive foliage and striking patterns that bring a touch of the tropics indoors. Its unique aesthetic appeal makes it a sought-after addition to many indoor plant collections.
Understanding the Camo Plant
The plant commonly known as the “camo plant” is Goeppertia makoyana, often referred to as the Peacock Plant or Cathedral Windows. This species was formerly classified under Calathea makoyana, and it is a member of the prayer plant family, Marantaceae. Its common names derive from its unique and striking leaf patterns.
The leaves of Goeppertia makoyana display a beautiful design, featuring light and dark green feather-like markings on their upper surface. Their undersides are a deep, rich purple, creating a vibrant contrast that gives the plant its distinctive “camouflage” appearance. Originating from the tropical rainforests of southeastern Brazil, the plant thrives in warm, shaded, and humid environments. Like other “prayer plants,” its foliage exhibits nyctinasty, meaning the leaves fold up at night and unfurl again at dawn.
Essential Camo Plant Care
Light
Camo Plants require appropriate light for healthy growth. These plants thrive in bright, indirect light conditions. Placing them near a north-facing window or a few feet away from east or west-facing windows provides optimal illumination. Direct sunlight should be avoided as it can cause leaf scorch, leading to faded colors and burn marks. Signs of insufficient light include a loss of vibrancy in the leaf patterns and slowed growth.
Water
Consistent moisture is important for the Camo Plant, which prefers its soil to remain consistently moist, but not soggy. Water when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch. The Camo Plant is particularly sensitive to chemicals in tap water, such as chlorine and fluoride, which can cause browning of the leaf tips and edges. Using distilled, filtered, or rainwater is highly recommended. If tap water is the only option, allowing it to sit out overnight can help dissipate some chlorine.
Humidity and Temperature
High humidity levels mimic the Camo Plant’s native tropical rainforest environment, ideally above 60%. Low humidity is a common cause of brown leaf tips and edges. Several methods can help increase ambient humidity: placing the plant on a pebble tray, grouping it with other plants to create a microclimate, or using a room humidifier. Regular misting can provide a short-term boost. The ideal temperature range for Goeppertia makoyana is 65°F (18°C) to 75°F (24°C); it is sensitive to cold drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations, so place it away from windows or heating vents.
Soil and Fertilization
Camo Plants need a well-draining, aerated, and moisture-retentive soil mix. A suitable blend often includes peat moss, perlite, and bark. Some recommend a mix of two parts houseplant potting soil, one part sphagnum moss or coco coir, and one part perlite.
Fertilize during the active growing season, typically from spring to early fall. A balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half the recommended strength, can be applied every 2-4 weeks. Fertilizers with an NPK ratio like 3-1-2 or 5-2-3 are often recommended for promoting foliage growth. During the winter months, reduce or stop fertilization entirely.
Common Camo Plant Challenges
Camo Plants may show signs of environmental stress or care issues. Brown leaf tips or edges are frequently observed, often pointing to low humidity or tap water with high mineral content. Curling leaves indicate underwatering or severely low humidity. Yellowing leaves can signal overwatering, potentially leading to root rot, or nutrient deficiencies. Common houseplant pests include spider mites, mealybugs, aphids, and scale insects. Regularly inspecting the plant, especially the undersides of leaves, helps in early detection and treatment.
Propagating Camo Plants
Camo Plants are most commonly propagated through division during repotting, ideally in late spring when the plant is actively growing. To divide, carefully remove the plant from its pot and gently shake off excess soil from the roots. Look for natural separations in the root ball where distinct clumps have formed. Gently tease these sections apart, ensuring each division has a portion of the rhizome and some roots attached. If clumps are firmly connected, use a clean, sharp knife to cut through the root ball, then pot each separated section individually.