Peperomia 'Mendoza' – compact hybrid with silver-grey leaves and red undersides


Peperomia 'Mendoza' is a hybrid created in 2015 by breeder Per Siggaard Christensen for Tingdal. Developed from P. caperata ‘Teresa’ and Peperomia ‘Eden Rosso’, this cultivar combines the compact growth of ripple peperomias with the vivid coloration of red-leaved forms. The result is a dense, easy-care plant with strong collector appeal.
 
● Growth and features of Peperomia 'Mendoza'


This hybrid remains small, usually 12 – 15 cm tall, with short stems and abundant foliage. The leaves are heart-shaped, deeply ridged, and bullate. The upper surface shows a soft grey tone crossed by green veins, while the lower side glows in red, creating a striking two-tone effect. Slender yellow-white flower spikes may appear, though the foliage is the main highlight.
 
● Breeding and background


'Mendoza' was introduced by Danish breeder Per Siggaard Christensen in 2015 for Tingdal. Its parentage – the cultivar ‘Teresa’ and the hybrid ‘Eden Rosso’ – gave it a compact habit, ripple texture, and the unique silver-grey and red contrast. The name ‘Mendoza’ refers to the famous wine-growing region in Argentina, evoking richness and depth of color.
 
● Care guide for Peperomia 'Mendoza'


Light: Bright, indirect light enhances the silver and red contrast; tolerates moderate light.
Watering: Allow the top 2 cm of soil to dry before watering. Avoid overwatering.
Humidity: Average indoor humidity (40 – 60%) is sufficient.
Temperature: Keep between 18 – 26 °C; avoid cold drafts below 15 °C.
Soil: Use a light, well-draining mix with mineral content; also adapts to semi-hydro substrates.
Feeding: Fertilize every 4 – 6 weeks with diluted, balanced fertilizer.
 
● Common problems with Peperomia 'Mendoza'


Overwatering can cause root or stem rot. Too little light may wash out leaf color, while strong direct sun can scorch the delicate surfaces. Wrinkling usually indicates underwatering.
 
● Notes for collectors


‘Mendoza’ stands out among modern hybrids for its grey-green tops and vivid red undersides, making it perfect for decorative pots or grouped arrangements. Its compact size makes it easy to grow in small spaces, and it rarely requires repotting.
 
● Etymology of Peperomia


The genus name Peperomia was coined in 1794 by Spanish botanists Hipólito Ruiz López and José Antonio Pavón Jiménez during their botanical expeditions in Peru and Chile. Derived from Greek peperi (“pepper”) and homoios (“resembling”), it reflects the genus’s relationship to black pepper (Piper nigrum).
 
● Questions about Peperomia 'Mendoza'


How tall does 'Mendoza' grow?It stays compact at around 12 – 15 cm tall, forming a neat clump.
Is it safe for pets?Yes, Peperomia hybrids are considered non-toxic to cats and dogs.
What makes 'Mendoza' unique?Its combination of silver-grey leaf surfaces with red undersides and compact ripple habit sets it apart from other hybrids.
 
● Add Peperomia 'Mendoza' to your collection


With its refined silver and red foliage, Peperomia 'Mendoza' is a distinctive hybrid that balances compact growth with bold color contrast. Order today to secure this modern collector’s plant.