Care of the indoor plant Peperomia polybotrya or Raindrop Peperomia |
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The genus Peperomia, family Piperaceae, includes more than 1000 species of perennial plants native to tropical regions around the globe. Some species are: Peperomia polybotrya, Peperomia magnoliifolia, Peperomia dolabriformis, Peperomia angulata, Peperomia caperata, Peperomia argyreia, Peperomia obtusifolia, Peperomia orba. Common names: Raindrop Peperomia, Coin-Leaf Peperomia. This species is native to South America. They are herbaceous tropical plants that reach 30-40 cm in height. The large fleshy, heart-shaped, pointed leaves are bright green. They produce fine, scented white flower spikes. Indoors they do not usually bloom. They are used as indoor and greenhouse plants. In tropical regions they are grown in pots for patios and terraces avoiding full sun. Peperomia polybotrya needs indirect light exposure; do not expose to direct sun. The temperature must not be lower than 18ºC. They grow well in a commercial, peaty houseplant substrate. Transplant in late winter or early spring. Water moderately with lime-free water, waiting for the substrate to be completely dry; in winter water every 2 weeks. The humidity must be high: place a plate with damp pebbles under the pot and spray the leaves frequently with lime-free water in spring and summer. Fertilize in summer every 2 weeks with mineral houseplant fertilizer or slow-release fertilizer every month. Prune faded flowers if they do bloom. They are sensitive plants to excessive irrigation, low humidity, sudden changes in temperature and drafts. They are propagated in spring or early summer by stem cuttings; use rooting hormones. |
Images of the indoor plant Peperomia polybotrya or Raindrop Peperomia |
 Peperomia polybotrya  Peperomia polybotrya  Peperomia polybotrya |