There are over 1000 varieties of peperomia plants and most are native to Central and South America. All peperomia plants, which belong to the Pepper Family, are semi-succulents with very similar care requirements. The leaves, thick and plump, rippled, smooth, or shiny, can be various shades of green, red, gray, and cream. Peperomia plant flowers are tiny and inconsequential, growing in clusters on upright conical spikes. When small, peperomia houseplants can be used in dish gardens and terrariums. Indoors, mature peperomia plants never grow taller than 12”-18″ and are ideal for tables.
Light
Peperomia plants grow well in the bright indirect light provided by a west or east-facing window. These plants even grow under fluorescent lights. Insufficient light causes the slow growing peperomia plant to stop growing all together. Direct sunlight burns the leaves.
Water
Allow the top 50% of the soil to dry out before you water. Over-watering, resulting in root-rot, is the main cause of serious peperomia plant problems. It’s best to water these plants from the bottom. This technique keeps the leaves dry and helps prevent plant diseases. The thick leaves of peperomia plants hold water and allow the plant to withstand long periods without moisture.
Humidity
Peperomia plants are originally from the rain forests of Brazil and like a warm humid environment.
Propagation
These plants are easily propagated from leaf cuttings, stem tip cuttings, and plant division. Be sure to allow the cut ends of the peperomia leaves or stems being used for propagation to dry out for several hours or overnight before planting them.
Poisonous information: The plant is considered poisonous.
Potential problem and solution
Wilting: The most common cause when a plant begins wilting is lack of water. Too much sunlight and over fertilizing may also cause wilting. Limp leaves and stems may also be a sign of overwatering, but it would be easy to distinguish between too much or too little water by checking the soil.
Pests – Diseases: Pests do not seem to be a major issue for Peperomia, but fungal diseases can be troublesome that may be caused when the plant is overwatered.
Leaves losing variegation/color: The most common cause is lack of light, although lack of fertilizer could cause loss of color
Sudden Leaf Drop Sudden drop in temperatures is a likely cause and/or overwatering.