PEPEROMIA
INFO+ CARE

genus: Peperomia Ruiz & Pav.

common name/s: Baby rubber plant, pepper elder, radiator plant, shining bush plant, emerald ripper pepper

type: Herbaceous perennial

family: Piperaceae

native range: northern South America and Central America, but are also found in Africa, southern Asia, and Oceania

zone: 10 to 12

height: to 90 cm

spread: to 90 cm

type species: Peperomia secunda Ruiz & Pav.

bloom time: seasonal bloomer

bloom description: varies between species

sun: part shade

water: medium

maintenance: low to medium

soil type: loose, well-draining, 'breathing' potting mix

toxicity: non-toxic to pets and humans

Peperomia is one of the two large genera of the family Piperaceae. It is estimated that there are at least over 1,000 species, occurring in all tropical and subtropical regions of the world. They are concentrated in northern South America and Central America, but are also found in Africa, southern Asia, and Oceania. The exact number is difficult to tell as some plants have been recorded several times with different names and new species continue to be discovered.

Peperomias have adapted to many different environments and their appearance varies greatly. Some are epiphytes (growing on other plants) or lithophytes (growing on rock or in rock crevices), and many are xerophytes (drought-tolerant) either with thick succulent structures or with underground tubers (geophytes). Most species are compact perennial shrubs or vines.

The genus name Peperomia was coined by Spanish botanists Ruiz López and Pavón Jiménez in 1794 after their travels in Peru and Chile. Peperomia plants do not have a widely accepted common name and some argue that it is better to use the genus name, as is the case with genera such as Petunia and Begonia. They are sometimes called radiator plants, a name possibly coined by L.H. Bailey because many of them enjoy bright and dry environments similar to a windowsill above a radiator.

Cultural information should only be used as a guide, and should be to be adapted to suit you. Your physical location; where you grow your plants, how much time you have to devote to their care, and many other factors, will need to be taken into account. Only then can you decide on the cultural methods that best suit you and your plants.

Most Peperomia plants are a perfect choice for beginner houseplant enthusiasts. Not only are they forgiving plants that tolerate some benign neglect, but also the spectacular variety of colors and textures available within the species means that you can amass an interesting collection of plants for every style and space, all of which require the same care.

Plant Peperomia in a pot with ample drainage holes, using an orchid potting mix, then place the plant in bright indirect light. Peperomia plants require little in the way of attention. You only need to water them when the soil is dry. Plant food or fertilizer is rarely necessary

Peperomia plants need medium to bright light to maintain their vibrant foliage colors. Insufficient light will result in fewer leaves, leaf drop, and drab coloration. Direct sun rays should be avoided, as they can burn the leaves.

Many Peperomia plant species grow as epiphytes, which means in the wild, they might settle into the nook of a tree and send their roots into some slightly decaying bark. The key to a thriving Peperomia is choosing a soil blend that mimics these conditions—chunky, loose, and acidic. An orchid potting medium typically works well, but regular potting soil is fine too. You can always lighten it with a handful of peat moss or vermiculite.

Peperomia has succulent leaves that indicate that these plants don't need frequent watering to maintain vigor. Allow the surface of the soil to dry out between waterings. Keeping the Peperomia on the dry side is better than saturating it. Soggy soil can lead to root rot.

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