Brain Plant
Goeppertia makoyana (ghep-PER-tee-ah mah-ko-YAH-nah)
The peacock plant is an evergreen herbaceous perennial species native to the tropical rainforests of southeastern Brazil. It thrives in an environment that is warm, shaded, and humid. The plant's foliage has a decorative pattern that resembles a peacock's tail feathers. It is a member of the prayer plant family (Marantaceae). The name commemorates the nursery in Liège, Belgium, Messrs. Jacob-Makoy and Co., which introduced the species into cultivation. This plant prefers bright, indirect sun or partial shade and moist, well-drained potting mix with high organic matter and perlite to improve drainage. The soil needs to be moist but not wet or soggy. Distilled water or rain water is recommended for watering since the fluoride in tap water can cause browning of the leaves. Temperatures between 65 and 75 degrees and a humidity level of 60% need to be maintained in order for the plant to thrive. It is best to fertilize this plant every 4 weeks with a balanced fertilizer during its growing season. Decrease watering and stop fertilizing during the winter months. Dust that collects on the leaves can slow down photosynthesis. It is recommended to dust the leaves gently with a damp soft cloth as needed. Division of its rhizomatous roots in the late spring is the preferred method of propagation. Every two years consider dividing the plants to increase their vigor. The peacock plant has a clumping habit and grows up to 1 to 2 feet tall and 8 to 12 inches wide. The leaves are broad, ovate, with a pale green to creamy colored background and dark green veins and dark green edges. Dark blotches are also noted along the midrib. The undersides have a reddish-purple pattern, and the margins of the leaf are wavy. Flowers are rarely produced on houseplants, but if blooming occurs they are small, white and purple in color. The foliage on this plant folds up in the evening and reopens at sunrise. This is caused by changes in light and temperature. Desired for its colorful, papery thin, erect leaves that look like peacock feathers, the peacock plant can be used as specimen or atrium plant for a home or office setting provided there is high humidity. Be sure that the specific conditions light, temperature, and humidity are met in order for this plant to thrive. Quick ID Hints : Egg-shaped leaf is held erect on a long petiole Peacock pattern: green spots with cream feathering Leaf is papery thin with purple underside Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: No serious insect pests or diseases. Monitor for aphids, scale, mealybugs, and spider mites. Overwatering can cause root rot, and low humidity causes leaves to roll or brown. The fluoride in tap water can cause leaf browning, and direct sunlight can cause leaf burn. If there is inadequate light, the foliage color will fade. Intolerant of low humidity, wet soil, dry soil, low or inconsistent temperatures, cold drafts, direct sun, and low light; More information on Goeppertia .
Source: NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox ↗ NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox, 46 attributes.
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