Peperomia ferreyrae aka Happy Bean
Taxonomy
Peperomia ferreyrae is a species of plant native to Peru and the rainforests of South America. It is a small, succulent herb, growing erect to about 20 cm in height. The alternating, typically 3 to 5 cm long leaves, are in the form of tubes resembling green bean pods: U-shaped in cross-section with epidermal windows on the top-side. There are two varieties: P. ferreyrae and Peperomia ferreyrae var. musifolia. The variety musifolia is yellowish-green instead of bright green, grows slightly taller, and has leaves that are slightly shorter and thicker, tending to curve inwards rather than being straight. Its unique leaf shape is similar to an unripe banana, hence the epithet combines the words musa for banana and folia for leaf. Peperomia ferreyrae can be found on higher altitudes (over 2,000 meters elevation). This plant is ideal for garden gardens, conservatories, and greenhouses, as well as a houseplant for window sills and even for desks. It is also known for its fruits and seeds that have traveled one of the longest distances ever recorded, over 3000 miles to an island in the middle of the Atlantic ocean, while stuck to a bird's feet!
Common names
Happy Bean, Pincushion Peperomia, Happy Bean PeperomiaHow to care for Happy Bean
Difficulty
Happy Bean requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.
Water
Happy Bean should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Happy Bean 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 Happy Bean 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 cold period, it is common for Happy Bean to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.
Toxicity
Happy Bean is not known to cause harm to humans or pets.
Humidity
The Happy Bean does not necessitate supplementary humidity. Plants primarily absorb water through their roots, rather than their leaves. Hence, the most effective way to supply humidity to your plants is by watering the soil.
Fertilizer
The Happy Bean should be transferred to a new pot once it has increased in size two-fold, or on an annual basis, whichever occurs earlier. Replacing the soil with fresh potting soil containing all the necessary nutrients, is sufficient enough to support the growth of the plant, thus avoiding the need to use fertilizer. It's important to note that plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.
Growth-pattern
New growth will sprout from the top of the plant as it grows upwards.
Region of origin
Happy Bean’s native range is Worldwide.
Flower
If you provide your Happy Bean with adequate amounts of sunlight and water, it will bloom.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Peperomia Genus
Peperomia polybotrya Raindrop Peperomia
Peperomia griseoargentea Peperomia Wavy Gravy
Peperomia serpens Cupid Peperomia
Peperomia dahlstedtii
Peperomia retusa Peperomia Retusa
Peperomia verticillata Red Log
Peperomia arifolia
Peperomia urvilleana Peperomia Urvilleana
Peperomia pellucida Shiny Bush
