Peperomia argyreia aka Watermelon Peperomia
Taxonomy
Peperomia argyreia, known as the watermelon peperomia, is a species of flowering plant in the family Piperaceae, native to northern South America, including Bolivia, Brazil, Ecuador, and Venezuela. It grows to 20 cm (7.9 in) tall and broad, with asymmetrical oval green leaves, slightly fleshy, strikingly marked with curved silver stripes, and red stems. Tiny green flower spikes appear in summer and it is valued in cultivation as a houseplant at a minimum temperature of 10 °C (50 °F), in bright light but not direct sun, with the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit. In India and Southeast Asia, it is found as a small, groundcover-like herb, with glossy leaves and crimson stems resembling tiny watermelons. It stands at a maximum height of 5 in (12 cm) and its flower isn't particularly fragrant or attractive. The fruits of Watermelon Peperomia have a peppery taste and have traveled one of the longest distances ever recorded for a plant, over 3000 miles to an island in the middle of the Atlantic ocean, while stuck to a bird's feet.
Common names
Watermelon Peperomia, Watermelon Pepper, Watermelon BegoniaHow to care for Watermelon Peperomia
Difficulty
Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can successfully care for Watermelon Peperomia due to its easy-going nature.
Water
Watermelon Peperomia should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Watermelon Peperomia loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Watermelon Peperomia prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Dormancy
During the wintertime, it's common for Watermelon Peperomia to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more.
Toxicity
Watermelon Peperomia is not known to cause harm to humans or pets.
Humidity
No additional humidity is required for the Watermelon Peperomia. Plants take in most of their water through their roots, not their leaves, therefore, watering the soil is the most effective way to supply humidity to your plants.
Fertilizer
Repotting the Watermelon Peperomia is necessary either when it has doubled in size or once every year, whichever happens first. With fresh potting soil replenished annually, the plant will receive all the necessary nutrients, rendering the use of fertilizer unnecessary. Keep in mind that the source of a plant's energy is the sun, not fertilizer.
Growth-pattern
Watermelon Peperomia grows vertically and new growth emerges from the top of the plant.
Region of origin
Watermelon Peperomia’s native range is Worldwide.
Flower
Yes, if you provide it with the correct amount of sunlight and water, you can witness your Watermelon Peperomia blooming.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Peperomia Genus
Peperomia involucrata Sodiro
Peperomia columella Columnar Peperomia
Peperomia caperata Emerald Ripple Pepper
Peperomia albovittata Peperomia Frost
Peperomia obtusifolia American Rubberplant
Peperomia tetragona Peperomia
Peperomia graveolens Ruby Glow
Peperomia perciliata Peperomia Perciliata
Peperomia ferreyrae Happy Bean
