How to grow Peperomia

Peperomia obtusifolia · Radiator plant, Baby rubber plant

A compact, bushy houseplant with thick, glossy, rubbery leaves on pink-tinged stems, usually about 25 cm tall; popular for its small size and easy care.

Quick facts

Type	Houseplant
Family	Piperaceae
Light	Partial shade
Frost	does not tolerate frost
Soil for sowing	from 15 °C
Where it grows	At home

When to plant

Sow straight into the bed after your last spring frost, once the soil has warmed.

Frost dates · When to plant

Care

At home

Stage	Watering	Temperature	Feeding
Growth	every 10 days	—	balanced (NPK), 14 days into the stage; balanced (NPK), 74 days into the stage; balanced (NPK), 134 days into the stage; balanced (NPK), 194 days into the stage
Winter rest	every 21 days	—	—

Growing notes

Light

Bright indirect light, for example near an east-facing window. Strong direct sun scorches the leaves; it copes with low light for months.

Soil

Well-drained houseplant or cactus potting mix in a pot with drainage holes.

Care

Let the soil dry out between waterings, then water and let it drain before putting the pot back in its saucer; overwatering yellows and drops the leaves and is the usual cause of root rot. Keep it away from draughts. Feed only in spring and summer, occasionally, with a low-strength liquid fertiliser. It can stay in the same pot for several years. Non-toxic to cats and dogs.

Pests and diseases of Peperomia

Sources

Figures checked against these sources.