Peacock Plant
Goeppertia makoyana
The Peacock Plant is a stunning tropical perennial celebrated for its ornate, paper-thin leaves. Each leaf displays a complex, pale green background decorated with dark green oval patterns that radiate from the midrib, mirroring the beauty of a peacock's feathers. The undersides of the leaves are a striking deep purple, which are visible when the plant folds its leaves upward at night, a phenomenon known as nyctinasty.
Light
Bright Indirect
Water
Moderate
Difficulty
Moderate
Humidity
High
Pet Friendly
Goeppertia makoyana is non-toxic to dogs and cats, making it an excellent choice for pet owners.
Care Guide
Peacock Plant Care Guide
Light: Thrives in bright, filtered light. Avoid direct sun, which can bleach the leaves or cause brown spots.
Watering: Maintain consistently moist soil. Water when the top half-inch of soil feels dry. Use distilled or rainwater to avoid leaf tip burn from minerals.
Humidity: High humidity is crucial. If the air is dry, use a pebble tray or a humidifier to maintain at least 60% humidity.
Temperature: Keep in a warm environment, ideally between 65-75°F (18-24°C). Protect from cold drafts and air conditioning vents.
Seasonal Care: In winter, reduce watering and stop fertilizing as the plant enters a dormant phase.
Common Issues: Brown leaf edges usually indicate low humidity or tap water sensitivity. Yellowing leaves may signal overwatering.
In-Depth Care & Growth
Feeding & Soil
Fertilizer
Balanced liquid foliage fertilizer
Soil
A well-aerated, moisture-retentive potting mix rich in organic matter, such as a mix of peat moss and perlite.
Physical Attributes
Mature Size
12 to 24 inches tall
Growth Rate
Moderate
Propagation
Propagated through rhizome division during the spring repotting process.
Common Varieties
Mainly known by its species name; often confused with Calathea lancifolia (Rattlesnake Plant).
This variety features broad, oval, pale green leaves decorated with dark green, feather-like patterns that are mirrored in a deep burgundy on the undersides.