Peperomia clusiifolia aka Baby Rubberplant

Taxonomy

Peperomia clusiifolia, also known as red edge peperomia, is a species of plant in the genus Peperomia. Endemic to Jamaica, this upright, evergreen, succulent perennial typically grows up to about 30cm in height and is commonly cultivated as an indoor plant. Its glossy dark green leaves are rounded in shape and feature a fine, dark red edge, providing a unique and striking appearance. In spring and summer, slender greenish-white flower spikes emerge. Varieties of Peperomia clusiifolia, such as P. clusiifolia 'Variegata', P. 'Jellie', or P. 'Tricolor', exhibit striking variegation, showcasing vibrant red or lighter colors. Interestingly, this species is known for its remarkable ability to disperse its fruits and seeds over long distances. In a remarkable feat, Peperomia fruits and seeds have been observed traveling over 3000 miles to an island in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, hitching a ride on a bird's feet.

Common names

Baby Rubberplant, Tricolor Peperomia

How to care for Baby Rubberplant

Difficulty

With its straightforward care requirements, Baby Rubberplant is a hassle-free plant that anyone can enjoy.

Water

Baby Rubberplant should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Baby Rubberplant 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 Baby Rubberplant prefers bright indirect 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.

Cat approves this plant

Toxicity

Baby Rubberplant is not known to cause harm to humans or pets.

Humidity

The Baby Rubberplant does not demand additional humidity levels. Water is mostly absorbed by the roots of plants, rather than their leaves, and the best way to provide humidity to your plants is through watering the soil.

Fertilizer

Once the Baby Rubberplant has doubled in size or after a year has passed, it should be moved to a new pot. By replacing the soil with fresh potting soil containing all the vital nutrients, your plant will receive all the sustenance it needs, negating the requirement for fertilizer. It's important to remember that plants get their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.

Growth-pattern

Baby Rubberplant grows vertically and new growth emerges from the top of the plant.

Region of origin

Baby Rubberplant’s native range is Worldwide.

Flower

Yes, if you provide it with the correct amount of sunlight and water, you can witness your Baby Rubberplant blooming.


More info:
Wikipedia