The Plant: Originating from tropical and subtropical America, the Peperomias are a large group of around 1000 species with a variety of growth habits. Some are annuals whilst others are evergreen perennials, some are epiphytic preferring to grow on trees.
The Peperomias are mainly grown for their attractive foliage. They have
a wide variation in leaf-shape, colour and size; the small, creamy
flower spikes, occasionally produced, are somewhat insignificant. There
is considerable confusion over the names of some varieties of Peperomia
but I will list some of those popularly grown as houseplants.
Peperomia argyreia (P. sandersii)
A neat clump-forming plant with shield-shaped foliage of dark
green and silver blades and red stalks.
Peperomia caperata
The Emerald Ripple Pepper
The heart-shaped foliage is deep green with an almost quilted
effect. Various leaf colorations and shapes may be found. Small
cream-coloured flowers produced occasionally. Forms a neat cushion if
planted in a shallow container.
Peperomia prostrata - A good trailing plant.
Peperomia clusiifolia variegata
A more upright growth habit with long leathery foliage, (leaves
up to 7 cm long), and with significant cream and red leaf margins.
Peperomia fraseri
This Peperomia has heart-shaped leaves arranged around upright
stems and bears scented white flower spikes.
Peperomia glabella
Bright green, shiny oval leaves and a rambling growth habit make
this plant suitable for hanging containers or growing in with a variety
of other houseplants. The ‘flowers’ resemble long green antennae.
Peperomia hederifolia (P. griseoargentea)
The deep corrugations on these heart-shaped leaves give a
quilted appearance, the underside of the foliage is pale green and the
stems are reddish-pink.
Peperomia magnoliaefolia variegata (P. obtusifolia)
A robust looking plant with thick rubbery leaves, 5 to 10cm in
length, borne on thick stubby stalks. A somewhat straggly growth habit.
There is a plain green variety but the variegated form is generally more
popular.
Peperomia nummulariifolia (P. rotundifloia)
Round, penny-sized bright green foliage with a trailing growth
habit.
Peperomia verticillata
Leaves grow in whorls of either four or six along stems which
may reach up to 30cm in height. The foliage is covered with fine hairs.
Its Needs: Strong light but no direct sun is required. Some Peperomia spp. Can cope with partial shade for short periods. Warmth essential, with minimal variations in temperature between night and daytime. Extra humidity may be needed in summer by mist-spraying. A good enriched peat-based compost potting mix is ideal and should afford good drainage as Peperomias do not like to become water-logged.
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