Taxiphyllum sp. 'Peacock'

Taxiphyllum sp. 'Peacock' is a beautiful aquarium moss with a strongly horizontal growth habit, producing broad, fan-shaped fronds that spread outward in flat, overlapping tiers closely resembling the open display of a peacock's tail feathers. Each frond is distinctly layered, with lateral branches spreading symmetrically to either side in a clean, formal pattern.

Peacock Moss grows slowly and performs best in cooler water at 18–25°C. It benefits from CO2 supplementation, which improves the regularity and density of the fan structure, but will grow without it under suitable low-tech conditions. It attaches firmly to smooth stone and flat driftwood surfaces, making it particularly suitable for horizontal hardscape elements.

In aquascaping, Peacock Moss is most impressive when allowed to colonise broad, flat stones positioned horizontally in the foreground or midground. Viewed from above, the concentric fan growth creates a strikingly beautiful pattern. It is often combined with small rocks and tight-growing foreground plants in Iwagumi-style and nature aquascape layouts.

Light: Low; 15–40 µmol PAR — consistent illumination improves the regularity of fan branching. CO2: Beneficial; CO2 supplementation tightens and regularises the characteristic fan structure significantly. Fertilisation: Light weekly liquid fertilisation with micronutrients. Placement: Attach to flat horizontal stones or low driftwood in foreground or midground; the spreading habit needs horizontal space. Propagation: Cut 2–3 cm portions and press or glue to new flat surfaces; re-establishment is slow.