Peacock Plant
Goeppertia makoyana
Goeppertia makoyana, commonly known as the Peacock Plant or Cathedral Windows, is cherished for its striking leaf patterns resembling peacock feathers. Native to the tropical regions of Brazil, this plant adds a touch of exotic beauty to any indoor space, making it a popular choice among houseplant enthusiasts.
Everything it needs
9 essentials at a glance
Watering
Goeppertia makoyana prefers consistently moist soil, so water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
In spring and summer, water every 1-2 weeks, reducing to every 2-3 weeks in fall and winter. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. Signs of over-watering include yellowing leaves and root rot, while under-watering may cause leaf curling and browning edges.
Light
This plant thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate low light conditions.
Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves. Ideally, it should receive around 12-14 hours of filtered light daily. A north or east-facing window is perfect for placement.
Soil
Goeppertia makoyana prefers a well-draining potting mix with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0.
A recommended mix includes equal parts peat, perlite, and orchid bark to ensure good drainage and aeration.
Humidity
This plant thrives in high humidity levels of 50-70%.
To increase humidity, consider using a pebble tray with water, misting the leaves regularly, or placing a humidifier nearby. Signs of humidity stress include crispy leaf edges and leaf drop.
Temperature
Goeppertia makoyana prefers temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C) and is not frost-tolerant.
It thrives in USDA hardiness zones 10-12, with a minimum temperature tolerance of 50°F (10°C). Avoid placing it near drafts or heating vents.
Fertilizing
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 20-20-20, diluted to half strength.
Fertilize every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) and reduce to once every 2-3 months in fall and winter. Signs of nutrient deficiency include yellowing leaves and stunted growth.
Pruning
Prune Goeppertia makoyana in early spring to remove any dead or damaged leaves and to shape the plant.
Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears. Deadheading is not necessary, but removing spent leaves can encourage new growth.
Repotting
Repot every 1-2 years or when the roots outgrow the pot, indicated by roots growing out of the drainage holes.
Choose a pot 1-2 inches larger in diameter. To repot, gently remove the plant from its pot, loosen the roots, and place it in fresh soil, ensuring the root ball is at the same depth as before.
Propagation
Propagation can be done through division or stem cuttings.
For division, carefully separate the plant into sections with roots and leaves, and pot them in fresh soil. For stem cuttings, take a 4-6 inch cutting with a few leaves, place it in water or moist soil, and keep it warm and humid until roots develop, typically in spring.
When it's unhappy
Yellow leaves
Why it happens
Over-watering or poor drainage.
How to fix it
Reduce watering frequency and ensure the pot has adequate drainage.
Brown leaf edges
Why it happens
Low humidity or under-watering.
How to fix it
Increase humidity levels and adjust watering schedule to keep the soil consistently moist.
Leaf curling
Why it happens
Under-watering or exposure to cold drafts.
How to fix it
Check soil moisture and move the plant to a more stable temperature environment.
Pests (e.g., spider mites, aphids)
Why it happens
Dry conditions and poor air circulation.
How to fix it
Increase humidity, regularly inspect for pests, and treat with insecticidal soap if necessary.
Stunted growth
Why it happens
Nutrient deficiency or insufficient light.
How to fix it
Fertilize appropriately and ensure the plant receives adequate indirect light.
Care through the year
Spring
In spring, increase watering frequency as the plant begins to actively grow. Fertilize every 4-6 weeks and check for pests as the weather warms.
Summer
During summer, maintain consistent moisture and humidity. Ensure the plant receives bright, indirect light and consider misting daily to boost humidity.
Fall
In fall, gradually reduce watering as growth slows. Continue to fertilize but reduce frequency to every 2-3 months, and monitor for any signs of stress.
Winter
In winter, keep the plant in a warm location away from drafts. Water less frequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings, and avoid fertilizing.
Toxicity & Safety
Goeppertia makoyana is non-toxic to pets and children. However, ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort. Always keep plants out of reach of curious pets and children.
Good to know
Why are my Goeppertia makoyana leaves turning yellow?
Yellow leaves can indicate over-watering or poor drainage. Ensure you are allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings and check that your pot has proper drainage.
How often should I water my Peacock Plant?
Water your Goeppertia makoyana when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 1-2 weeks in spring and summer, and every 2-3 weeks in fall and winter.
What light conditions are best for Goeppertia makoyana?
This plant thrives in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch its leaves, and aim for around 12-14 hours of filtered light daily.
How can I increase humidity for my Cathedral Windows plant?
To increase humidity, you can use a pebble tray with water, mist the leaves regularly, or place a humidifier nearby to maintain a humid environment.
When is the best time to repot my Goeppertia makoyana?
Repot your plant every 1-2 years or when you notice roots growing out of the drainage holes, ideally in early spring when the plant is actively growing.
What should I do if my Peacock Plant has pests?
Regularly inspect your plant for pests like spider mites or aphids. If found, treat them with insecticidal soap and increase humidity to deter future infestations.
Is Goeppertia makoyana toxic to pets?
No, Goeppertia makoyana is non-toxic to pets and children, but ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort, so keep it out of reach.
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