How to grow peperomia

What are peperomias?

Peperomias are compact houseplants available in a wide diversity of colours and forms. They’re grown for their attractive leaves, which are often thick and fleshy, in various shapes and colours, ranging from metallic silver to purple, either plain, striped or variegated, and frequently puckered or ridged. The stems can be bushy, vining or trailing. Although they will flower, they’re not particularly decorative – usually just thin cream or green spikes. 

Most of the peperomias we grow as houseplants originate in humid tropical forests, where light levels are low. They grow either on the shady forest floor or higher up in the filtered light of the tree canopy, where they root onto tree branches (growing as epiphytes). Here they have less access to water, so many developed fleshy, succulent leaves that can store moisture, to help them survive. Some species are found in semi-arid habitats, but these are not widely available as houseplants.
 
Peperomias are generally easy, low-maintenance plants to grow in the home and are forgiving of occasional neglect. Their compact size makes them suitable for even the smallest living spaces, and with so many to choose from, they are ideal for collecting. Young plants and smaller species are perfect for terrariums and bottle gardens.

Choosing peperomias

Popular peperomias to grow as houseplants include: 

• watermelon peperomia (Peperomia argyreia) – probably the best-known species, with boldly striped leaves that resemble the skin of a watermelon

• emerald ripple pepper (P. caperata) – green or red leaves with a two-tone corrugated texture

• baby rubber plant (P. clusiifolia) – glossy, rounded leaves, green with a red edge, like a small rubber plant 

Trailing peperomias, which are ideal for a hanging planter or on a shelf or mantelpiece, include:

• string of turtles (P. prostrata) – long, trailing stems and leaves that look like small turtles

• variegated Cupid peperomia (P. nitida ‘Variegata’) – trailing stems clad in heart-shaped leaves, edged with yellow 

Peperomias from drier locations have smaller, very fleshy (succulent) leaves where they can store moisture. These succulents are not widely grown as houseplants, but Peperomia macrorhiza is sometimes available. 

Buying peperomias

You will find a selection of tropical peperomias in the houseplants section of most garden centres and other houseplant retailers. When buying, look for the healthiest plant, with strong growth, plenty of roots and undamaged leaves.

Location

Peperomias are amazingly adaptive plants and will often grow successfully in less-than-ideal conditions. But the best location for them is a warm room, about 18–30°C (65–86°F), in bright but indirect or filtered light. An east- or west-facing windowsill is perfect, or set back from a south-facing window. 

Direct sun in summer can scorch the foliage, although weaker winter sun is usually welcome. Too much shade can lead to poor, straggly growth. Keep them out of cold draughts and away from radiators.

Succulent peperomias from drier habitats (such as Peperomia macrorhiza) prefer a slightly cooler period in winter, so move these to a room that’s a little less warm, although not below 10°C (50°F), for the winter.

Watering

Take care not to overwater peperomias. Let the compost partially dry out between waterings – always check with your finger, rather than simply watering routinely. Watering too much or leaving the pot standing in water for long spells can lead to root rot, which can kill the plant. Reduce watering in winter, when growth is usually slower.

Peperomias are sensitive to fluoride in tap water, which can cause the leaf tips to turn brown. So use rainwater or filtered water whenever possible, preferably at room temperature.

Houseplant 101: Episode Four

Houseplant 101: Episode Four

Water: collecting, storing and re-using

Water: collecting, storing and re-using

Water: using softened and other types

Water: using softened and other types

Humidity

Peperomias are very adaptable and most are happy in the normal atmosphere of our homes. However, these tropical plants generally prefer humid air if possible, so an enclosed terrarium or a steamy bathroom are ideal locations. 

If you notice the leaves turning brown, try raising the humidity by standing the pot on a wide tray filled with damp gravel. For more tips on how to increase humidity, watch our quick video guide:

Feeding

To boost growth, feed every two weeks in the growing season, from April to October, with a half-strength liquid fertiliser.