Peperomia columella aka Columnar Peperomia

Peperomia columella is a compact succulent that reaches 10-50cm (4-20 inches) in height with a similar spread. The stems grow upright initially but become trailing and arching as they mature, making this plant ideal for hanging baskets. It's a slow grower, taking 2-5 years to reach mature size.

Peperomia columella prefers temperatures between 18-27°C (65-80°F) and must not drop below 5-10°C (41-50°F). This tropical succulent from Peru needs protection from cold and should be grown indoors or in a heated greenhouse in temperate climates. Avoid placing near cold drafts or air conditioning vents.

Peperomia columella propagates easily from stem cuttings or leaf cuttings during the growing season. Take cuttings with sterilized tools, allow them to callous for a few hours, then place in well-draining soil. Stem cuttings are the most reliable method and root readily under favorable conditions with warmth and bright indirect light.

Repot Peperomia columella in spring only when it becomes extremely pot-bound, as it grows best with confined roots. Use a pot just one size larger with drainage holes, preferably terracotta for better drainage. This slow-growing succulent rarely needs repotting more than every 2-3 years.

Peperomia columella is generally disease-free but may be affected by mealybugs, spider mites, and aphids. Root rot from overwatering is the most common issue. Treat pests with neem oil or insecticidal soap, and prevent fungal problems by avoiding excess moisture on leaves and ensuring proper drainage.

Peperomia columella can only grow outdoors year-round in USDA zones 10-11 where temperatures stay above 5-10°C (41-50°F). In cooler climates, it can be placed outside during warm summer months but must be brought indoors before temperatures drop. It requires sheltered locations with protection from direct afternoon sun and rain.

Peperomia columella occasionally produces stiff, upright yellow flower spikes in spring. The flowers are small and not particularly showy, typical of Peperomia species. Flowering is more likely when the plant receives adequate light and reaches maturity, though it may not flower reliably indoors.

Peperomia columella requires no regular pruning. You can trim back leggy or damaged stems to maintain shape, but this is optional. Any pruning should be done in spring or early summer during active growth using clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.

Gently wipe Peperomia columella's fleshy leaves with a soft, damp cloth to remove dust. Avoid misting or leaving water on the leaves, as this can promote fungal growth. The tightly stacked leaf structure means dust accumulation is minimal, so cleaning is rarely needed.

Yellow leaves on Peperomia columella are most commonly caused by overwatering. This succulent stores water in its leaves and cannot tolerate soggy soil. Allow the top 2-3 inches of soil to dry between waterings and ensure the pot has drainage holes. Yellow leaves can also indicate too little light.

Brown leaves on Peperomia columella typically result from underwatering or drought stress. Despite being a succulent, the plant still needs regular watering during the growing season. Brown tips can also indicate low humidity, excessive direct sun, or fertilizer burn from over-feeding.

Slow growth is normal for Peperomia columella, which takes 2-5 years to reach mature size. However, extremely slow or stunted growth may indicate insufficient light, lack of fertilizer during growing season, or root-bound conditions. Ensure bright indirect light and feed monthly with diluted cactus fertilizer in spring and summer.