Peperomia metallica 'Colombiana' – Velvet Mystery with a Metallic Edge


Peperomia metallica 'Colombiana' is as mysterious as it is striking. Although widely sold under this name, there’s no confirmed match between this plant and the officially described species Peperomia metallica L.Linden and Rodigas, published in Ill. Hort. 39: 126 (1892). Nor is 'Colombiana' a formally recognized cultivar. That makes it a collector's enigma — a velvet-leaf, red-backed beauty that may represent an unverified species or hybrid. For comparison, you can explore the original species records on GBIF.


What Makes 'Colombiana' So Unique?
 
Deep maroon leaves with a metallic satin finish and red undersides
 
Soft, velvety texture on compact, trailing stems
 
Ideal for terrariums or humidity-loving setups
 
Extremely slow-growing — stays under 20 cm tall and 25 cm wide


Botanical Context – What We Know So Far
This plant is likely native to humid montane forests in Colombia or nearby regions, adapted to filtered light, high humidity, and loose, organic soils. Though labeled as Peperomia metallica, its foliage differs in several ways from type herbarium specimens. It may represent a horticultural selection, misidentification, or even a yet-unnamed species.


How to Care for Peperomia 'Colombiana'
 
Light: Bright, indirect light is best — avoid harsh direct sun
 
Placement: A humid, stable environment away from cold drafts
 
Watering: Allow the top layer to dry before watering; keep soil lightly moist, never soggy
 
Humidity: Prefers 50–70%; avoid misting, use trays or terrarium setups instead
 
Temperature: Thrives between 18–24 °C year-round
 
Soil: Loose, airy mix with perlite, orchid bark, and compost — ideal for shallow roots
 
Fertilizing: Use diluted liquid fertilizer monthly — no need to adjust by season
 
Repotting: Rarely needed; repot only when rootbound
 
Propagation: Easy via leaf or stem cuttings in moist soil or moss
 
Semi-Hydro: Adapts to LECA if kept warm and humid
 
Pruning: Optional — trim runners to maintain shape


Common Issues and Solutions
 
Fungus gnats: Let the top layer dry out and increase drainage
 
Root rot: Caused by compact or water-retentive soil — repot in airy mix
 
Spider mites: Can occur in dry air — raise humidity and treat with neem or soap
 
Limp or yellowing leaves: Often due to inconsistent watering or cold exposure


Extra Notes for Collectors
If you love plant mysteries, this one delivers. Despite the naming confusion, 'Colombiana' thrives in high humidity and steady warmth — treat it like a delicate rainforest understory species. Its foliage pairs beautifully with other velvet-leaf plants like Peperomia caperata or Anthuriums.


Etymology and Taxonomic Note
The genus name Peperomia comes from the Greek "peperi" (pepper) and "homoios" (similar), due to its relation to true pepper plants (Piper). The species name metallica refers to the metallic sheen described by L.Linden and Rodigas in 1892 — but whether this plant matches that species remains unresolved.


'Colombiana' FAQs
 
Is this really Peperomia metallica?Probably not — the name is widely used in the trade, but no herbarium match has confirmed it. See scans at GBIF.
 
Is it good for terrariums?Absolutely. Its compact size and love of humidity make it ideal for closed or semi-enclosed setups.
 
Is it toxic to pets?No — like all confirmed Peperomia species, it is non-toxic to cats, dogs, and humans.
Add the elusive Peperomia metallica 'Colombiana' to your collection today — a truly captivating foliage plant, only at Foliage Factory.