Peperomia polybotrya 'Raindrop' – Care Guide and Botanical Insights

Peperomia polybotrya 'Raindrop', also known as Raindrop Peperomia, stands out with its glossy, thick, raindrop-shaped leaves and compact, upright growth. Native to the tropical Andes of Colombia and Peru, this semi-succulent houseplant is ideal for bright indoor spaces and makes an excellent choice for beginner plant lovers. Its sculptural foliage and easy-going character bring both visual interest and practical low-maintenance appeal to desks, shelves, and windowsills.

Highlights of Peperomia polybotrya 'Raindrop'

Leaf shape: Thick, glossy, teardrop-like leaves up to 10 cm long
Growth: Upright and compact; typically reaches 30–40 cm in height
Foliage type: Succulent-like leaves that store moisture
Light needs: Thrives in bright, indirect light, tolerates medium light
Pet-safe: Non-toxic to cats and dogs

Care Guide for Peperomia polybotrya 'Raindrop'

Water: Let the top 2–3 cm of soil dry out. Avoid overwatering; roots are sensitive to soggy soil
Light: Prefers filtered light; avoid direct sun to prevent scorch
Humidity: Adapts to normal indoor levels. No misting needed
Temperature: Best between 18–24 °C; protect from cold drafts
Soil: Well-draining potting mix with perlite; avoid heavy soils
Feeding: Monthly in spring and summer with a diluted liquid fertilizer
Repotting: Every 2–3 years or when rootbound
Propagation: Via leaf or stem cuttings in moist substrate or water
Hydroponics: Adapts to passive semi-hydro setups with LECA

Common Problems and Solutions

Yellow leaves: Usually caused by excess moisture; improve drainage and let soil dry
Drooping foliage: Often from underwatering or cold exposure
Pests: May attract mealybugs or spider mites — wipe leaves and apply neem oil or insecticidal soap
Brown spots: Sunburn; relocate to indirect light

Extra Tips

Rotate the plant every few weeks for even growth
Clean leaves with a damp cloth to boost photosynthesis
Reduce watering during low light periods

Etymology and Botanical Citation

Peperomia polybotrya comes from "peperi" (Greek for pepper) and "homoios" (similar), referencing its relation to Piper nigrum. The species name "polybotrya" combines "poly" (many) and "botrya" (clusters), likely referring to its inflorescence. The cultivar name 'Raindrop' refers to its uniquely shaped foliage.

Peperomia polybotrya Kunth, published in: Nov. Gen. and Sp. 1: 60 (1815). Verified via WCVP.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Peperomia 'Raindrop' safe for pets?Yes – it's non-toxic to cats, dogs, and humans
Can it handle low light?It can survive in medium light but prefers brighter spots for optimal growth
How often should I water?Check the top few centimetres of soil; water only when dry

Order Peperomia polybotrya 'Raindrop'

Add sculptural greenery to your space with Peperomia 'Raindrop' – compact, glossy, and effortlessly stylish. Order now and enjoy the tropical charm of this resilient houseplant.

Peperomia polybotrya 'Raindrop'

€21.25

VAT Included

Peperomia polybotrya 'Raindrop' comes in following sizes:

M – is approximately 20 cm tall and comes in a ⌀ 12 cm pot.

L – is approximately 30 cm tall and comes in a ⌀ 14 cm pot.
Name: Peperomia polybotrya 'Raindrop', a cultivar of Peperomia polybotrya Kunth

Common names: Raindrop Peperomia

Growth and habit: Compact, upright-growing ornamental foliage plant

Form: Chamaephyte

Family: Piperaceae (Pepper family)

Native Range: Cultivar of a species native to Colombia and Peru

Hardiness Zone: USDA zone 10–12; grown indoors in temperate climates

Height: Reaches 25–40 cm tall indoors

Spread: Spreads up to 25–30 cm in width

Humidity: Prefers 50–70% humidity; adapts to average indoor levels

Light: Bright indirect light; avoid harsh direct sun

Temperature: Ideal range: 18–26 °C; sensitive to cold below 15 °C

Soil: Loose, well-draining mix with perlite and compost or coir

Watering: Water when top 2–3 cm of soil are dry; do not overwater

Pruning and Maintenance: Remove old or yellowing leaves to encourage new growth

Foliage: Thick, glossy, heart-shaped leaves resembling raindrops

Growth Rate: Moderate under warm and bright indoor conditions

Root Structure and Repotting: Shallow roots; repot every 2–3 years or when rootbound

Fertilizing: Feed every 4–6 weeks with diluted balanced fertilizer

Tolerance: Tolerant of occasional neglect; sensitive to overwatering

Adaptability: Easy to grow indoors in bright, stable environments

Propagation: Leaf or stem cuttings in soil or water

Common Pests: Mealybugs, fungus gnats; inspect soil and base of leaves

Fungal Issues: Root rot from soggy soil or poor drainage

Flowering: Small, upright greenish flower spikes with minimal visual interest

Longevity: Long-lasting as a houseplant with steady care

Toxicity: Non-toxic to pets and humans

Ideal Placement: Bright desk, shelf, or windowsill with filtered light

Special Care: Avoid cold air and overwatering; rotate for even growth

Leaf Maintenance: Gently dust with a dry cloth to maintain leaf shine

Stress Signs: Yellow leaves = overwatering; drooping = underwatering or cold shock

Pot Material: Plastic or ceramic pots with good drainage
Please Note:

✔ Curated Selection: We hand-pick only the most beautiful plants, ensuring you receive a high-quality specimen.

ℹ️ Representative Image: The plant photo is for reference only. Each plant is unique, so variations in leaf count, shape, and variegation are natural.

ℹ️ Size Information: Sizes are based on pot diameter and overall height (from the pot’s base to the tallest point).

ℹ️ Product Details: If a listing includes a specific plant ('Get What You See'), it will be clearly stated in the size section.

❌ No Individual Photos: We do not provide photos of individual plants unless explicitly mentioned in the size section.