Peperomia polybotrya aka Raindrop Peperomia
Taxonomy
Peperomia polybotrya, commonly known as raindrop peperomia or raindrop plant, belongs to the family Piperaceae and is native to Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. Growing in a small tree-like form, reaching 30 to 40 cm tall and with large succulent and glossy teardrop-shaped peltate leaves, this easy to maintain houseplant makes it a perfect option for novice gardeners. Its greenish white slender spikes are often mistaken for other plants and its fruits and seeds have even been known to travel long distances of up to 3000 miles while stuck to the feet of birds. Peperomia polybotrya is a wonderful addition to any home and its raindrop shaped leaves are a beautiful sight.
Common names
Raindrop Peperomia, Money Plant, Coin Leaf PeperomiaHow to care for Raindrop Peperomia
Difficulty
Caring for Raindrop Peperomia is a breeze, as it is highly adaptable and forgiving to minor neglect.
Water
Raindrop Peperomia should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Raindrop 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 Raindrop Peperomia 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.
Dormancy
During the cold period, it is common for Raindrop Peperomia to go dormant, resulting in a slowdown of growth. To accommodate this, waterings should be spaced out more.
Toxicity
Raindrop Peperomia is not known to cause harm to humans or pets.
Humidity
The Raindrop Peperomia does not need extra humidity. Plants primarily absorb water through their root system, making soil watering the best way to provide humidity to your plants.
Fertilizer
The Raindrop Peperomia should be repotted when it has doubled in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing fresh potting soil with all the essential nutrients each year ensures the plant's well-being, eliminating the need for fertilizer. Remember, plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.
Growth-pattern
New growth will sprout from the top of the Raindrop Peperomia as it grows vertically.
Region of origin
Raindrop Peperomia’s native range is Worldwide.
Flower
Yes, if you provide your Raindrop Peperomia with adequate sunlight and water, you can expect it to bloom.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Peperomia Genus
Peperomia maculosa Spotted Peperomia
Peperomia graveolens Ruby Glow
Peperomia polybotrya Raindrop Peperomia
Peperomia congesta Peperomia Congesta
Peperomia dolabriformis Prayer Pepper
Peperomia peruviana Peperomia Little Tuscany
Peperomia verticillata Red Log
Peperomia involucrata Sodiro
Peperomia velutina
