The biggest risk with this genus is overwatering — most losses come from cold, wet compost rather than dryness.
Care
Tolerates lower light reasonably well, though variegated types need more light to keep their markings.
Semi-succulent leaves and stems store water; let the compost dry out between waterings.
Free-draining, peat-free houseplant compost with added perlite or bark.
Pinch leggy stems to keep compact; propagates very easily from a leaf or stem cutting.
A weak balanced feed monthly while growing. These have small root systems and are quickly scorched — err on the side of too little, and never feed dry compost.
Leaf cuttings: take a healthy leaf with a short stalk, push the stalk into gritty compost and keep it covered and warm until a plantlet forms at the base. Stem cuttings work just as well on the trailing kinds.
Month by month
Months change with the climate: in southern Italy tomatoes go out two months earlier than in England.
- MarchLight feed as growth resumes. how ›
- AprilA good time to take leaf or stem cuttings to propagate. how ›
- OctoberReduce watering frequency as light levels drop into autumn. how ›
Months based on climate: UK. Your choice stays on this device.
- MarchLight feed as growth resumes. how ›
- AprilA good time to take leaf or stem cuttings to propagate. how ›
- OctoberReduce watering frequency as light levels drop into autumn. how ›
Months based on climate: Northern Italy. Your choice stays on this device.
Common problems
How to spot it. Soft, mushy stems or leaves.
What to do. The most common cause of death for this genus — let the compost dry out well between waterings, erring on the side of under- rather than overwatering.
How to spot it. Near a cold windowsill in winter.
What to do. Keep away from cold glass and draughts.
Questions
Peperomia: is it hardy?
H1b: Tender, needs above 10°C. It survives above 10 °C.
Can it grow in a pot?
An exclusively indoor plant; does well even in small pots, preferring to be slightly root-bound.
Peperomia: when do you prune it?
Pinch leggy stems to keep compact; propagates very easily from a leaf or stem cutting.
When do you feed it?
A weak balanced feed monthly while growing. These have small root systems and are quickly scorched — err on the side of too little, and never feed dry compost. Feeding months, UK: April–September.