Peperomia tetraphylla aka Acorn Peperomia

Taxonomy

Peperomia tetraphylla, known as the Acorn Peperomia or Four-leaved Peperomia, is a small plant in the Peperomia genus and the Piperaceae family found naturally in tropical and subtropical regions all over the world, including Australia, Africa, and Asia. Additionally, it has been introduced to Easter Island. This greenie can be identified by its forest green, round and almost coin-shaped leaves and long vines, with their specific epithet tetraphylla derived from the Ancient Greek language meaning "four leaves". P. tetraphylla is a low-growing herb, with creeping stems, and can be found in wet highland and evergreen forests, often as an epiphyte on top of trees or fallen logs, but can also be found on rocky knolls or among grass by river banks. It was first described in 1832 by W.J. Hooker and G.A. Walker-Arnott. Three varieties are known: P. tetraphylla, Peperomia tetraphylla var. piedadeana, and Peperomia tetraphylla var. tenera and it is relatively easy to care for and propagate by leaf. Peperomia tetraphylla is a very special plant, with its round leaves and elegant vines, that brings a mysterious and fantasy atmosphere to any space.

Common names

Acorn Peperomia

How to care for Acorn Peperomia

Difficulty

Acorn Peperomia presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.

Water

Acorn Peperomia should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Acorn 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 Acorn 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 Acorn Peperomia to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more.

Toxicity

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.

Humidity

No additional humidity is required for the Acorn 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 Acorn 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

Acorn Peperomia grows vertically and new growth emerges from the top of the plant.

Region of origin

Acorn Peperomia’s native range is Worldwide.


More info:
Wikipedia