Goeppertia zebrina

Common Names

Zebra Plant, Prayer Plant, Peacock Plant

Summary

Native to the tropical forests of southeastern Brazil, this evergreen rhizomatous perennial forms dense clumps up to about 0.6–1 m tall and 0.5–1 m wide, with velvety dark green leaves bearing lime-green zebra-like stripes and purple undersides; leaves reach about 12–20 inches in length and exhibit nyctinasty, folding at night.

Prefers bright indirect light, avoiding direct sun, in warm, humid conditions with temperatures around 65–75°F and humidity 60–80%; soil should be well-draining and kept evenly moist but not waterlogged, with water from distilled, rain, or filtered sources; fertilize monthly during the growing season and repot every 1–2 years, propagating by division; commonly grown as an indoor ornamental foliage plant or interiorscape specimen and is non-toxic to humans and pets, with outdoor shade growth possible in warm climates.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

1-3.5 feet

Spread

2-3 feet

Hardiness Zones

Zones 11-12

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally partial shade

Soil Type

Moist, well-draining loamy or peat-based soil with high organic matter, often a peat-based potting mix with perlite or coco coir; pH around 6.0–6.5.

Soil Drainage

Well-draining soil that stays moist but not waterlogged

Soil pH

6.0-6.5

Bloom Color

Purple, White

Bloom Time

Spring

Foliage Color

Dark green leaves with lime green zebra stripes; undersides purple

Fall Foliage Color

Yellow / Golden

Leaf Lifecycle

Evergreen broadleaf

Growth Rate

Slow-growing

Seasons of Interest

Spring, Summer, Fall

Propagation Methods

Division (by dividing rhizome clumps) and Stem Cuttings (less common)