Peperomia caperata 'Brasilia' – ripple peperomia with purple and red tones


Peperomia caperata 'Brasilia' is a recent cultivar introduced in 2019 by breeder Per Siggaard Christensen for Tingdal. Created from a cross between P. caperata ‘Teresa’ and Peperomia ‘Eden Rosso’, this hybrid combines compact growth with striking foliage. The heart-shaped leaves show a metallic grey-purple surface above and a rich red underside, making it one of the most vibrant ripple peperomias available.
 
● Growth and features of Peperomia caperata 'Brasilia'


This cultivar forms a neat mound with short stems and abundant foliage, usually staying under 15 cm tall. The deeply ridged, bullate leaves create strong texture, while the dual coloration ensures visual impact from every angle. Small yellow-white flower spikes may appear throughout the year, adding subtle contrast to the foliage.
 
● Breeding and background


'Brasilia' was developed in 2019 by Danish breeder Per Siggaard Christensen. Its parentage — the cultivar ‘Teresa’ and Peperomia ‘Eden Rosso’ — gave it a unique combination of traits: compact habit, glossy purple-silver upper leaf surface, and the red undersides inherited from ‘Eden Rosso’. Marketed through Tingdal, it quickly gained popularity in the ornamental plant trade.
 
● Care guide for Peperomia caperata 'Brasilia'


Light: Bright, indirect light keeps colors vivid; tolerates medium light.
Watering: Let the top 2 cm of soil dry before watering. Sensitive to waterlogging.
Humidity: Average indoor humidity (40 – 60%) is sufficient; thrives with slightly higher levels.
Temperature: Maintain between 18 – 26 °C; avoid exposure below 15 °C.
Soil: Use a loose, well-draining substrate with mineral content; adapts to semi-hydro substrates.
Feeding: Fertilize every 4 – 6 weeks with diluted, balanced fertilizer.
 
● Common problems with Peperomia caperata 'Brasilia'


Excess moisture can lead to root or stem rot. In too little light, leaf color fades to dull green. Crispy edges or wrinkling usually indicate underwatering or very dry air.
 
● Extra notes for growers


With its compact form and bold two-tone leaves, 'Brasilia' is well suited for desktops, shelves, or terrariums. Its red undersides are best appreciated when displayed slightly above eye level. Repot only every 2 – 3 years, as it prefers snug pots.
 
● Etymology of Peperomia caperata


The genus name Peperomia was established by Spanish botanists Hipólito Ruiz López and José Antonio Pavón Jiménez in 1794 after their expeditions in Peru and Chile. Derived from Greek peperi (“pepper”) and homoios (“resembling”), it highlights the plant’s relationship with black pepper (Piper nigrum). The epithet caperata means “wrinkled,” describing the ridged leaf surface.
 
● Questions about Peperomia caperata 'Brasilia'


How tall does 'Brasilia' grow?It usually stays compact at 12 – 15 cm, forming a dense mound.
Is it safe for pets?Yes, Peperomia species are considered non-toxic to cats and dogs.
What makes 'Brasilia' unique?Its metallic grey-purple tops combined with vivid red undersides set it apart from other ripple peperomias.
 
● Add Peperomia caperata 'Brasilia' to your collection


With its dual-colored foliage and compact growth, Peperomia caperata 'Brasilia' is a standout ripple peperomia for both beginners and collectors. Order now to enjoy this modern hybrid with bold character.