Peperomia verticillata aka Red Log

Peperomia verticillata is an evergreen perennial from the Caribbean. It belongs to the pepper family, Piperaceae. Kew lists it as an epiphyte of wet tropical regions. The RHS gives its range as the West Indies. It is not native to Britain or Ireland. The RHS also lists Peperomia pulchella as a synonym. Its fleshy growth and two-tone leaves give it a distinct look.

The plant grows upright and forms a bushy clump. Rounded leaves grow along the stems in whorls of five. Their upper sides are grey-green, while their undersides are red. The leaves stay on the plant throughout the year. Garden plants reach about 1.6 feet [0.5 metres] tall and wide. The RHS gives a cultivated range of 0.3–1.6 feet [0.1–0.5 metres] for both dimensions. Plants take two to five years to reach their full size. The compact form suits growing in pots under cover.

The RHS recommends this species for homes, conservatories and greenhouses. Grow it in houseplant compost with good drainage. Keep the compost moist, but allow excess water to drain away. Loam and sandy growing media are both suitable. It accepts acid, neutral and alkaline conditions. Give it bright, indirect light during active growth. Move it into full light during winter. Choose a sheltered spot when placing it outside. Its UK hardiness rating is H1B, linked to minimum temperatures of 10–15°C. In Britain, it can spend summer outdoors rather than remain outside year-round.

Water moderately in summer and use much less in winter. The RHS favours tepid, soft water for this plant. It also recommends moderate to high humidity during growth. Its care guidance calls for daily misting from spring through summer. Feed monthly with a balanced liquid fertiliser during that period. These seasonal changes distinguish its summer care from its winter needs. No routine pruning is needed to maintain the plant. Remove flowers once they have faded.

Propagation is possible from seeds or stem cuttings. Sow ripe seed with warmth of 19–24°C. Take stem cuttings during summer. The RHS reports few usual pest or disease problems. Its account describes the plant as generally free of both. The supplied species evidence does not establish edible uses or toxicity.