Scientific Name & Classification

• Kingdom: Plantae
• Phylum: Tracheophytes
• Order: Alismatales
• Family: Piperaceae
• Genus: Peperomia
• Species: Peperomia caperata

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Morphological Characteristics

Leaves & Growth

The Peperomia caperata's leaves are its most striking feature, featuring a rippled, glossy texture with a heart-shaped structure. The leaves appear in various shades, including deep green, burgundy, and purple.

• Leaf Shape: Heart-shaped
• Leaf Size: 1 to 3 inches (2.5 - 7.5 cm)
• Leaf Texture: Glossy and deeply wrinkled
• Leaf Color: Dark green, purple, burgundy, and variegated shades

Plant Size

• Height: 6 - 8 inches (15 - 20 cm)
• Width: 6 - 24 inches (15 - 60 cm)

This plant has a compact and slow-growing nature, making it ideal for desks, tabletops, or hanging baskets.

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Habitat & Distribution

The Peperomia caperata originates from the tropical rainforests of Brazil, where it thrives under the dense shade of larger trees. Thanks to its adaptability to moderate humidity and low-to-medium light conditions, it has become one of the most common indoor plants worldwide.

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Peperomia Caperata Care Guide

Lighting Requirements

✅ Ideal Light: Medium, indirect light, such as sunlight filtered through a sheer curtain.
❌ Avoid:

• Direct sunlight, which can cause leaf burn.
• Complete darkness, which may lead to poor growth.

Although this plant can tolerate low light, it thrives best in moderate lighting conditions.

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Soil & Watering

✅ Ideal Soil: A well-draining, airy soil mix that prevents waterlogging.

✔ Recommended Soil Mix:

• 1 part potting soil (provides nutrients)
• 1 part perlite (improves aeration)
• 1 part sand or orchid bark (enhances drainage)

✅ Watering Frequency:

• Spring & Summer: When the topsoil dries out (about once a week).
• Fall & Winter: Every 10 - 14 days, as the plant enters a dormant phase.

? Signs of Overwatering: Yellowing leaves and root rot.
? Signs of Underwatering: Wilting leaves and curled edges.

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Temperature & Humidity

? Ideal Temperature Range: 65 - 79°F (18 - 26°C)
❄ Lowest Tolerable Temperature: 60°F (15°C)

? Humidity Requirements:
✔ Moderate to low humidity (prefers 40 - 50% humidity).
✔ Using a humidifier in dry environments can help maintain healthy foliage.

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Propagation Methods

The Peperomia caperata is easy to propagate using either leaf cuttings or stem tip cuttings.

Propagation Steps:

1️⃣ Leaf Cuttings:

• Cut a healthy leaf along with a small portion of the stem.
• Place it in clean water or moist soil.
• Roots develop in 2 - 4 weeks.

2️⃣ Stem Cuttings:

• Take a stem cutting 2 - 3 inches (5 - 7 cm) long.
• Dip it in rooting hormone (optional).
• Plant it in well-draining soil and keep the soil slightly moist.

⏳ Rooting Time: 2 - 6 weeks.

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Common Problems & Pests

? Common Pests:

• Mealybugs
• Spider mites
• Whiteflies

? Prevention & Treatment:
✔ Wipe leaves with a damp cloth and mild soap.
✔ Apply neem oil or natural insecticide if infestations persist.

? Common Diseases:

• Root rot due to excessive watering.
• Leaf spot caused by fungal infections or high humidity.

✔ Solution: Allow the soil to dry between watering and improve air circulation.

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Uses of Peperomia Caperata

? As a Houseplant: Ideal for offices, homes, and spaces with moderate light.
? As a Hanging Plant: Looks beautiful in hanging baskets.
? As Ground Cover (in tropical climates): Can be planted outdoors in warm regions.

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Is Peperomia Caperata Toxic?

✅ Non-toxic to cats, dogs, and horses, making it pet-friendly for indoor spaces.