Peperomia: Cultivation, Care, and Choosing the Right Variety

Botany

The Peperomia belongs to the Piperaceae family, the same as pepper. Its genus name, Peperomia, comes from the Greek peperi (pepper) and homoios (similar), due to its resemblance to the pepper plant. In French, this plant is sometimes called “péperomie” or “rubber plant”, although the latter name is also given to other species.

Native to tropical and subtropical regions of Central and South America, as well as Southeast Asia, Peperomia grows naturally under the canopy of humid forests. It thrives in shady and moist environments, often nestled on the forest floor or as an epiphyte on trees, benefiting from filtered light and ambient humidity. Peperomia can be considered a partially succulent plant. Its thick, fleshy leaves allow it to store water, making it more drought-resistant than other tropical plants. However, unlike classic succulents like cacti or euphorbias, it cannot withstand prolonged drought and prefers a slightly humid atmosphere.

Botanical plates: Peperomia obtusifolia (circa 1960) and Peperomia resediflora

The Peperomia genus includes over 1500 species. Among the most commonly cultivated are:

• Peperomia rotundifolia or trailing jade: known for its trailing habit and small, round, bright green leaves, ideal for hanging baskets or cascading arrangements.
• Peperomia obtusifolia : prized for its round, thick, glossy leaves in deep green or variegated forms.
• Peperomia argyreia: nicknamed “watermelon peperomia”, it charms with its round foliage striped in green and silver, offering an original and graphic appearance.
• Peperomia polybotrya: features large, round, glossy leaves shaped like water droplets.

Peperomia caperata, Peperomia tetraphylla ‘Hope’ and Peperomia obtusifolia

These species have given rise to numerous cultivars, selected for their foliage with varied colours and textures. Among the most popular are Peperomia obtusifolia ‘Variegata’, a variegated version in green and cream, very bright. Peperomia caperata ‘Rosso’ stands out with its crinkled dark green leaves and bright red undersides. Peperomia ‘Raindrop’ features thick, fleshy leaves shaped like water droplets. Peperomia ‘Hope’ is recognisable by its thick, glossy foliage and compact habit. Finally, Peperomia caperata ‘Luna Red’ distinguishes itself with entirely purple crinkled leaves.

Peperomia is a small herbaceous plant, generally compact, with a bushy, creeping or upright habit depending on the species. Its root system is underdeveloped, often consisting of fine, fibrous roots, allowing it to adapt to pot cultivation and even epiphytic life in its natural habitat. It rarely exceeds 30 cm in height, although some creeping species may spread more in width.

Its stems, sometimes thick and fleshy, can be brittle and retain a semi-succulent texture that facilitates water storage. The foliage, the distinctive feature of the genus, shows great diversity in shapes and textures, ranging from round, glossy leaves to crinkled, lanceolate or heart-shaped leaves. Depending on the species, their surface can be smooth, plicate, velvety or even marbled with silvery, purple or dark green patterns.

Peperomia argyreia

Peperomia’s flowering is discreet and not particularly ornamental, consisting of slender, upright spikes, often whitish or greenish in colour, similar to those of other members of the Piperaceae family. It appears in spring or summer. These tiny flowers, lacking showy petals, emit little or no fragrance and play only a secondary role in the plant’s appeal. As flowering requires energy, some varieties rarely flower when grown indoors. Fruiting, though possible, is rarely observed in indoor cultivation and appears as tiny spherical berries containing fine seeds.

Main species and varieties

• Peperomia caperata Luna
• Peperomia caperata Quito®
• Peperomia Colombiana
• Peperomia caperata Montevideo
• Peperomia caperata Rosso
• Peperomia clusiifolia Red Margin
• Peperomia Piccolo Banda
• Peperomia Fire Sparks®
• Peperomia Hope®
• Peperomia obtusifolia Bicolor
• Peperomia Nevada
• Peperomia obtusifolia USA
• Peperomia obtusifolia Green
• Peperomia Red Canyon
• Peperomia prostrata
• Peperomia rotundifolia

Growing Peperomia Indoors

Where to Place Peperomia in the House?

Native to tropical and subtropical regions, the Peperomia is particularly sensitive to cold and cannot tolerate temperatures below 10-12°C. Exposed to overly cool conditions, it quickly shows signs of stress, such as slowed growth, wilting foliage, or an increased risk of root rot.

It cannot withstand frost or sudden temperature fluctuations, which is why it is exclusively grown indoors in temperate climates. It thrives in a stable environment between 18 and 24°C, which corresponds to typical indoor temperatures. It is therefore essential to keep it away from open windows in winter, frequently used doors, or direct heat sources like radiators, which dry out the surrounding air.

It also requires high humidity levels. Generally, Peperomias grow best when humidity is between 40% and 60%. To maintain this humidity level, you can place the pot on a tray filled with damp gravel or clay pebbles, or group several plants together to create a more humid microclimate. In any case, avoid placing it near radiators or heating vents that dry out the air. Using a humidifier can also be beneficial if your environment is particularly dry.

Peperomia is a houseplant that thrives in bright, indirect light. Placed near an east or west-facing window, it benefits from good natural light without being exposed to harsh sunlight, which could dry out or scorch its delicate foliage. Filtered light, such as that diffused through a sheer curtain or from a well-lit room, can also work, though growth may be slower and foliage potentially less vibrant.

Too much shade can weaken the plant, making it more fragile and reducing the brilliance of its patterns and hues, especially in variegated varieties, which require more light to maintain their contrasts.

When to Pot a Peperomia?

Potting can be done year-round, with a preference for spring or summer, when the plant is in active growth.

How to Pot Peperomia?

Growing Medium

Peperomia needs a light, well-draining, and aerated growing medium to prevent excess moisture, which could lead to root rot. The pH of the medium should be slightly acidic to neutral, around 6 to 7. An ideal mix includes:

• A good houseplant compost (50%)
• Turf (30%) for moisture retention
• Perlite or coarse sand (20%) to improve drainage

Choosing a Pot

Since Peperomia has a compact root system, it does not need a large pot. It’s best to choose a container proportionate to the plant’s size, slightly larger than the root ball and with drainage holes at the bottom, to prevent waterlogging. A terracotta pot is ideal, as it allows better evaporation and reduces the risk of overwatering. However, a plastic pot with drainage holes also works well, provided watering is monitored. Peperomia also thrives in semi-open or open terrariums.

Potting Steps

1. Place a layer of clay pebbles, gravel, or small stones at the bottom of the pot to improve drainage.
2. Add a mix of compost, turf, and perlite, leaving enough space for the root ball.
3. Gently remove the Peperomia from its original pot, lightly shake the roots to remove excess soil, then place it in the centre of the new pot.
4. Fill in around the roots with the growing medium, lightly pressing with your fingers to ensure stability without compacting the soil too much.
5. Water lightly to moisten the medium without saturating it, then let the plant acclimatise to its new environment.

Peperomia polybotrya

Planting in a Terrarium

Choose a terrarium with a lid to maintain high humidity. A glass terrarium is ideal, as it allows light in while retaining moisture.

• Use a well-draining compost mix.
• Place the terrarium in a bright spot, but out of direct sunlight.
• Maintain high humidity by misting the terrarium regularly or using a tray of water with pebbles to increase ambient moisture.
• Open the terrarium occasionally to allow air circulation and prevent mould growth.

Peperomia caperata, Fittonia, and moss in an open terrarium

Peperomia Care

Watering

The Peperomia requires moderate watering, as its fleshy leaves allow it to store some water. During the growth period (spring-summer), water approximately once a week when the substrate is dry on the top few centimetres. Ensure you allow the surface to dry out between waterings. In autumn and winter, reduce watering to once every 2 to 3 weeks to avoid excess moisture, which could lead to root rot. It is recommended to use water at room temperature, preferably non-calcareous.

Misting

Misting is not advised for the Peperomia, as its thick leaves retain moisture. When water stagnates on the foliage, it can encourage fungal or bacterial diseases. If the air is too dry, it is better to use a tray with clay pebbles and water or simply place a container of water nearby to mimic the humid conditions of its native tropical habitat.

Peperomia prostrata

Fertilisation

Fertiliser is recommended during the growth period, from spring to late summer. A balanced liquid fertiliser diluted to half the recommended dose can be applied every four weeks. In winter, fertilisation is unnecessary as the plant enters a dormant phase.

Pruning

The Peperomia does not require specific pruning, but you can pinch the stem tips (cutting the top part of the stem, usually just above a node with your fingers) to stimulate branching and achieve a more compact habit. It is also advisable to regularly remove yellowed or damaged leaves to encourage healthy growth and prevent diseases.

Repotting the Peperomia

As the Peperomia has a relatively small root system, it does not require frequent repotting. Repotting every 2 to 3 years is sufficient, mainly when the roots start to completely fill the pot or the substrate becomes depleted. The best time to repot is in spring, when the plant resumes active growth. Choose a slightly larger pot with drainage holes and refresh the substrate to ensure good nutrient supply. When repotting, it is important to handle the plant gently to avoid damaging its fragile roots. Once placed in its new pot with fresh, well-draining substrate, a light watering helps encourage recovery without waterlogging the soil.

Common Diseases and parasitic Pests of Peperomia

The Peperomia is a relatively hardy plant, but it can be susceptible to certain diseases and parasitic attacks, especially when cultivation mistakes are made.

Common diseases

• Root rot: caused by overwatering or poor drainage. The roots turn black and soft, and the leaf yellowing occurs before dropping. Reduce watering and repot in a dry, well-draining substrate.
• Botrytis (grey mould) : encouraged by excessive humidity and poor ventilation. It appears as a greyish coating on the leaves. Remove affected parts and improve air circulation.
• Leaf spots: caused by fungi or bacterium, often due to excessive moisture on the leaf. Avoid overhead watering and treat with a natural fungicidal solution if necessary.

Common parasites

• Mealybugs: small cottony clusters on stems and under leaves, weakening the plant. They can be removed with a cotton pad soaked in 70° alcohol or a diluted black soap spray.
• Aphids: small green or black insects that suck the sap. A lukewarm water shower or a black soap treatment can eliminate them.
• Spider mites: appear in dry conditions and cause leaf yellowing with fine webbing under the leaf. Increasing ambient humidity and a nettle-based treatment or black soap helps eradicate them.

Propagation of Peperomia by cuttings

Peperomia can be easily propagated by stem or leaf cuttings, either in water or directly in soil.

1. Propagation in water

This method is simple and allows you to monitor root development before replanting the cutting in soil.

Steps for water propagation:

1. Choose a healthy stem: take a vigorous 5-10 cm stem with at least one or two nodes (areas where leaves and roots emerge).
2. Remove lower leaves: keep only 2-3 leaves at the top to reduce evaporation and encourage rooting.
3. Place in a glass of water: submerge the stem base in room-temperature water, ensuring no leaves touch the water.
4. Change water regularly: replace every 3-4 days to prevent bacterium buildup and support healthy rooting.
5. Wait for roots to appear: within 2-4 weeks, roots will develop. Once they reach 2-3 cm, transplant into a pot with light, well-draining substrate.

Peperomia prostrata

2. Direct soil propagation

This method allows cuttings to adapt directly to the substrate without water transition.

Steps for soil propagation:

1. Prepare the substrate: use a mix of houseplant compost with perlite or coarse sand for good drainage.
2. Take a stem or leaf cutting: cut a stem with at least one node or a leaf with its petiole (the small connecting stem).
3. Plant the cutting: gently insert the stem base or leaf petiole into the substrate, burying it slightly.
4. Moisten the substrate: water lightly to maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging.
5. Create humidity: cover with a transparent plastic bag to retain moisture and speed up rooting.
6. Monitor growth: within 3-6 weeks, new roots develop and the cutting can be cared for as a mature plant.

How to showcase Peperomia in your home?

Easy to grow, aesthetically pleasing and adaptable to all styles, the Peperomia brings a trendy and fuss-free botanical touch to our interiors. It pairs beautifully with raw terracotta pots, macramé hangers or rattan planters for a warm, natural vibe. Varieties with crinkled or variegated leaves, like Peperomia caperata or Peperomia argyreia, work particularly well for this textural play.

For a more contemporary interior, opt for ceramic pots in neutral or pastel shades, playing on elegance and simplicity. Paired with other houseplants like a Pilea or a Ficus, the Peperomia creates a lovely, easy-care botanical contrast.

It’s perfect for open terrariums, where its small fleshy leaves add depth and freshness. Undemanding, it’s also an ideal choice for brightening up a well-lit bathroom, where its love for humidity will be perfectly matched.

In a kitchen pot (Peperomia argyreia), elevated for trailing species like the prostrata, Peperomia fits everywhere!