Troubleshooting
Peacock Plant problems — and how to fix them
Peacock Plant (Goeppertia makoyana) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Brown, crispy leaf edges
Usually caused by low humidity, dry air or fluoride/chlorine in tap water. Raise humidity to 60%+ and switch to rainwater, distilled or filtered water.
Curling or rolling leaves
A sign of underwatering, very low humidity or cold draughts. Check the compost is evenly moist and move the plant away from radiators, vents and cold windows.
Faded or scorched markings
Direct sun bleaches and burns the patterned foliage. Move to bright, indirect or filtered light to restore the contrast.
Spider mites and other sap-suckers
Dry indoor air invites spider mites, plus aphids, scale and mealybugs. Inspect leaf undersides regularly, wipe foliage and treat early with insecticidal soap or neem.
Prevent peacock plant problems before they start
Most peacock plant issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Peacock Plant problems — FAQ
Why is my peacock plant brown, crispy leaf edges?
Usually caused by low humidity, dry air or fluoride/chlorine in tap water. Raise humidity to 60%+ and switch to rainwater, distilled or filtered water.
Why is my peacock plant curling or rolling leaves?
A sign of underwatering, very low humidity or cold draughts. Check the compost is evenly moist and move the plant away from radiators, vents and cold windows.
Why is my peacock plant faded or scorched markings?
Direct sun bleaches and burns the patterned foliage. Move to bright, indirect or filtered light to restore the contrast.
Why is my peacock plant spider mites and other sap-suckers?
Dry indoor air invites spider mites, plus aphids, scale and mealybugs. Inspect leaf undersides regularly, wipe foliage and treat early with insecticidal soap or neem.