Peacock Plant

bright indirect light (3-6 feet from a south or west window, or right next to an east window. Under a grow light, 6-10 inches away works well) without direct sun (right in the window where sun actually hits the leaves. A strong grow light 4-6 inches away can substitute) exposure. Very bright light fades the distinctive variegation. A northern or eastern window is often ideal. The plant should always have access to natural light but should never be in direct sun (right in the window where sun actually hits the leaves. A strong grow light 4-6 inches away can substitute).

high humidity (60-80%. Group your plants together, set them on a pebble tray with water, or run a humidifier nearby) is essential: 60-80% for best performance. Native habitat is near 100% humidity, so this plant will protest visibly in dry indoor air with curling, browning leaves. A dedicated humidifier near the plant is the most reliable solution.

Well-draining, organically rich, slightly acidic soil (standard peat-based potting mix is naturally slightly acidic, pH 5.5-6.5, which is perfect). A peat-based or coco coir-based potting mix amended with perlite is ideal. High nitrogen fertilizer (NPK 3-1-2 ratio) prevents brown spots and maintains leaf pattern vibrancy.

Brown leaf edges or tips indicate low humidity or fluoride toxicity from tap water. Curling leaves signal underwatering or low humidity. Spider mites thrive when air is too dry. Root rot from overwatering. Leaf color fading suggests too much direct light.