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Peperomia plants are one of the best choices when it comes to indoor plants, thanks to their low-maintenance. Besides being so easy to take care of, another perk of these plants come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors so every plant lover can choose their own preferred peperomia plant.
As you can see, most of the names are fun and creative, and once you see how each of these plants looks, you’ll understand why they’re named like that!
Types of Peperomia
Since there are over 1,000 types of peperomia, deciding which one to choose can be challenging. If you’re wondering—What are the best Peperomia varieties and how to take care of each of them, you’ll find this guide super useful!
Here’s the list of my 18 all-time favorites peperomia plant types and a guide on how to take care of each of them properly:
Watermelon Peperomia
Watermelon Peperomia—also known as Peperomia argyreia—is a very cute, petite variety.
There’s no need to explain the name since you’ll draw the conclusion as soon as you see the foliage.
I especially love the mini version that grows only up to five or six inches. Super adorable!
The regular Watermelon Peperomia can reach up to 11 or 12 inches but not more than that, so it’s still pretty small.
Compared to the rest of the plant, the leaves are very large, which makes this Peperomia type very interesting.
Don’t expect to see any flowers—Peperomia Argyreia’s statement feature are the watermelon skin-like leaves.
I like to plant my Watermelon Peperomia plants in cool, short planters. I usually choose yellow or orange pots since those colors look the best with the unusual leaves.
Peperomia Prostrata
Peperomia Prostrata is widely known as the String of Turtles because its leaves look similar to a long row of turtle shells.
Even though Peperomia Prostrata and Watermelon Peperomia look completely different, they belong to the same genera and have the same requirements.
I prefer placing my Peperomia Prostrata in a hanging planter because the strings of leaves grow downwards, so it looks very interesting.
This variety doesn’t have any impressive flowers—you might notice a few very small beige flowers. The real show-stopped are the leaves.
The maximum length of the String of Turtles is around 11 inches, but you’ll have to wait around four to five years until your plant reaches that size.
Peperomia Rubella
If you like a pop of color, choose Peperomia Rubella. The leaves of this plant are green on the top, but the bottom part and the stems are red, which makes this plant super interesting.
Peperomia Rubella grows downwards, just like Peperomia Prostrata. That’s why it also looks the best in a hanging planter.
You can also place a few pots on the window sill, and they will create a really good effect when the plants reach their maximum length, which is around eleven inches.
Since the scarlet red color, I tend to choose more neutral planters for Peperomia Rubella and let the leaves and stems get all the attention.
Rainbow Peperomia
If you love unusual plants, Rainbow Peperomia might be for you!
This type of Peperomia doesn’t grow downwards like the previous three varieties, but it draws attention with its super interesting, three-color leaves.
The edges of the leaves are pink to red. Under that statement color, there’s light green, while the middle of the leaves is dark green.
Besides being unusual color-wise, the leaves of Rainbow Peperomia are very large, especially compared to the rest of the plant.
Again, since this type of Peperomia already has three incredible colors on the leaves, my advice would be to plant it in a simple planter (mine look fabulous in creamy white pots!).
Peperomia Serpens
Another type of Peperomia that will look best in a hanging pot, Peperomia Serpens has very interesting, heart-shaped leaves.
Its vibrant green color is the best choice for plant lovers who prefer experimenting with unusual planters because Peperomia Serpens’ vibrant green color allows it.
I prefer having my Peperomia Serpens in a red or brown pot because these two colors make the green leaves pop even more.
Even though this variety is also small, it actually grows fast, so you’ll appreciate its lush green leaves very quickly.
Red-Edge Peperomia
As opposed to Rainbow Peperomia, the Red-Edge type has leaves with only two colors—the leaves are entirely dark green while a really thin red line follows the edges.
What I really love about Red-Edge Peperomia is the waxy appearance of the leaves. They really look spectacular and are larger than the rest of the plant.
Since the plant grows upwards, you can place it in a regular container. I suggest choosing a reddish planter, similar to the color of the edges.
Red Ripple Peperomia
This is another interesting-looking peperomia thanks to its ruffled leaves that are shaped like little hearts.
The color of the leaves is very intriguing since it’s a mix of green, purple, and red.
This plant attracts everyone’s attention right away. That’s why I recommend choosing a simple, one-color container—the plant’s leaves will most likely cover it entirely.
Red Ripple Peperomia is a fantastic choice for gardeners who love unusual but beautiful houseplants.
Like all other described Peperomia varieties, Red Ripple Peperomia is also petit, and it can grow up to eight inches both in height and width.
Teardrop Peperomia
This is a very compact and lush plant. Its leaves are shaped like teardrops (hence the name) and have a beautiful, waxy shine.
The entire plant is usually dark green, but you can also find light green Teardrop Peperomia plants.
When it comes to the best container choice design-wise, you can’t go wrong with this plant.
The only choice that won’t do the plant any justice is planting it in a green pot because it will blend with the leaves.
I planted mine in a geometric, bright yellow pot, and I love how the green, waxy leaves pop even more.
Peperomia Japonica
Another Peperomia variety that looks best in a hanging pot because of its growth direction.
Peperomia Japonica has very small, green leaves that always look lush and pretty.
It’s one of the Peperomia types that I’ve seen the most in my friends’ homes.
While it looks incredible in every interior, I must admit that I love how it looks in industrial-style homes.
The green leaves look so beautiful near wooden and metal furniture. So, if you prefer this interior design aesthetic and easy-to-maintain houseplants, pick Peperomia Japonica, and you won’t be sorry.
Peperomia Perciliata
Peperomia Perciliata is one of the rarest Peperomia plants out there.
It is actually an endangered Peperomia variety. If you manage to find it, don’t miss the chance to choose it for your home.
Peperomia Perciliata has small but thick leaves, which means that it can retain a lot of moisture, and you’ll have to water it very rarely—most likely once every two weeks.
The leaves have an unusual shape that can’t really be described with words. The closest comparison I can think of is coffee bean shape.
Isabella Peperomia
If you like unusual and rare plants, Isabella Peperomia is another not so common type of Peperomia.
This is a trailing plant that has small, round, and light green leaves. Thanks to its vibrant color, it is easily noticeable even if you have a lot of house plants.
Isabella Peperomia can reach 12 inches, and its vines look best on a brown, floating shelf.
This type of Peperomia can tolerate higher humidity levels, so you can safely place an air humidifier close to the planter.
Jelly Peperomia
Jelly Peperomia is very similar to Rainbow Peperomia, but the edges of the oval-shaped leaves have a super-thin red line.
On Rainbow Peperomia, the red color is much more visible, while the predominant color on Jelly Peperomia is dark green.
The leaves of Jelly Peperomia are large compared to the rest of this plant.
A simple, elegant planter is the best choice for Jelly Peperomia.
Golden Gate Peperomia
Golden Gate Peperomia can grow up to eight inches in height, and it has beautiful, oval leaves that are dark green in the center and creamy white on the edges.
This plant looks very elegant, and it looks amazing in every pot. I prefer planting it in a vintage-looking container and placing it in the center of my dining table.
This type of Peperomia loves slightly more moisture and more frequent watering but make sure not to exaggerate. Water it only if the soil becomes dry one inch below the surface.
Cupid Peperomia
Cupid Peperomia also has leaves that are green in the middle and creamy white on the edges but the leaves of this Peperomia type are much smaller and heart-shaped.
Another difference is that Cupid Peperomia is a trailing plant.
Even though Golden Gate and Cupid Peperomia have similar leaf color, they still look completely different.
In my opinion, this type of Peperomia looks best in a white, boho planter on a high shelf.
Bibi Peperomia
You’ll recognize Bibi Peperomia thanks to its beautiful, rich green color and the unique shape of the leaves.
Many people compare the shape to the lance, which makes sense. The foliage of Bibi Peperomia is very lush and it looks amazing in any planter.
You can keep your Bibi Peperomia on a window sill but make sure to choose a window that doesn’t get too intense sun exposure during the day.
Columbian Peperomia
This one might be one of my favorite plants ever actually. It’s so unique and special that it almost looks fake!
What makes Columbian Peperomia so different from other varieties is the color of the foliage.
The surface of the leaves is super dark green, sometimes even black, while the burgundy color on the bottom side of the leaves and the stems makes this plant so attention-grabbing.
Columbian Peperomia is very compact and petit, it can reach only eight inches in height.
I planted mine in a cute, small planter made of stone. You can also go with the ceramic planter but keep it simple and allow the foliage to get well-deserved attention and admiration.
Belly Button Peperomia
Belly Button Peperomia is another plant that attracts a lot of attention both because of the color of the foliage as well as its shape and texture.
The leaves of Belly Button Peperomia are green on one side and red on the other. They’re oval and small, and the velvet texture becomes more noticeable as they get older.
His is probably one of the longest Peperomias as it can grow up to 36 inches. It’s a trailing plant so the vines will eventually cover the pot.
My advice is to place it in a hanging pot so that everyone can see the fabulous leaves.
Beetle Peperomia
Finally, the last one on the list is Beetle Peperomia which is also interesting because of its foliage.
While it doesn’t have any dramatic colors like the previous two types, what makes it so cool are the light green stripes on the dark green leaves.
The foliage of Beetle Peperomia is lush and compact, and the plant always looks fresh thanks to the vibrant color.
White planters are the best choice for this type of Peperomia species.
Water Requirements for All Peperomia Varieties
Peperomia is an ideal houseplant not only because of its petite size but also because of the watering schedule.
These plants hate overwatering, which means that you’ll have to add water once every ten days.
The best thing to do is to check the first two inches of the soil. If it’s dry, it’s time to water your peperomia plant. Water well and leave the plant to drain the excess water.
I love giving my peperomias a gentle shower every once in a while and leaving them in my bathtub until the excess water is completely drained.
Since all peperomia types have the same water needs, whichever plant you choose, you’ll notice that they are pretty easy to take care of and don’t require frequent hydration.
You’ll easily know if your peperomia plant has been overwatered:
- The leaves will become yellow
- The soil will become soggy
- The pot will be super heavy
- The stalks will start to rotten
Related: Plant Watering- Guide for Gardening Beginners
Light Exposure for Peperomia Varieties
Any peperomia plant will thrive when placed next to a window that gets medium or bright sunlight.
Make sure that the light is indirect because too much time under the direct sunlight can be too intense for your plant.
You can even use artificial lights if your house doesn’t receive a lot of sunlight during the day.
If you decide to go with grow lights, you can leave them on for about 12 hours, and your peperomia plants will be fine.
In case you notice fewer leaves that are dropping and losing their green color, your plant isn’t getting enough light. That means you should find a better place for it.
Another indicator is if the leaves start growing towards the window or other light source.
Don’t get me wrong, your plant will easily survive in low light conditions, but its leaves won’t be as beautiful as usual.
Choose the Right Soil for Most Varieties of Peperomia
Since all peperomia species dislike being overwatered, you should choose a potting mixture that provides excellent drainage.
You can either use a soil mixture for orchids, which is ideal, or a regular mix. Just make sure to add a bit of peat moss to ensure good drainage.
Another option is to cover the bottom of the pot with perlite and create an additional drainage system for your peperomia plant.
When it comes to the pH level, peperomia plants prefer acidic soil. Make sure to use a soil meter to check the acidity of the potting mix.
If the soil is neutral or alkaline, you can add an acidic fertilizer to adjust the pH level of the soil to your peperomia plant.
Peperomia Humidity and Temperature Needs
Your peperomia will grow its best when placed in a warm room. The temperature in your house shouldn’t be below 32 degrees Fahrenheit if you want your plant to be happy.
While all peperomia plants love warm temperatures and thrive in summer, the humidity levels will vary depending on the type you choose.
Some peperomia plants prefer lower humidity, while some of them require more moisture.
If your plant has thicker leaves, similar to succulents, you won’t have to worry about the humidity.
On the other hand, if the leaves are thinner, you should consider investing in an air humidifier if the air in your house is dry.
Another trick to try out is to put your plant on a tray with small rocks and add some water to ensure the ideal level of humidity.
You can also spray your peperomia plants every once in a while or leave them in the bathroom while you shower.
Frequency of Peperomia Fertilization
Fertilization isn’t necessary for peperomia plants, which is why I love them as house plants!
Whichever type of peperomia you choose, you won’t have to worry about poor nutrition. Peperomia plants get enough food from the potting soil and sunlight.
If you decide not to add any fertilizer, that will be completely okay for your plant.
In case you’re still worried about your plant’s nutrition, you can add an extremely small dose of plant food every other month.
Water-soluble plant food is a better option than using slow-releasing fertilizers.
Repotting Peperomia Plant Varieties
Peperomia plants prefer being placed in smaller containers that barely fit them. This means you’ll have to change the planter once every three years. These plants don’t grow fast.
Even if your peperomia seems to be fine in the current container, you should consider repotting it just to refresh the soil.
You can place them in the same container or choose a slightly larger one.
Small pots ensure that you don’t overwater your peperomia plants, which is awesome.
I tend to wait for the roots to start growing out of the bottom of the container before I replant my peperomia plants. This has been the most reliable indicator for me.
It’s crucial that the pot you choose has enough drainage holes and preferably a layer of small rocks on the bottom of the container. This should be the case each time you repot your peperomia plant.
The planter should be only an inch larger than the roots of the plant to ensure the plant stays potbound.
Common Pests and Diseases to Look Out For
I didn’t have any experience with pests and diseases on my peperomia plants. However, a few of my friends did. Luckily, they got rid of the issue easily, and their plants are still growing strong.
Peperomia plants usually have fungal problems. You might experience your plant suffering from diseases that Phytophthora or Pythium caused.
If you notice dark brown, almost black spots on your plants, cut the infected area and treat them with an appropriate solution.
When it comes to viral issues, your plants might suffer from Ringspot. Viral diseases are the most serious ones as they can be easily transmitted to other plants.
Unfortunately, you’ll probably need to get rid of the infected plants in order to save the healthy ones.
The following insects could give you and your peperomia plants a hard time: mites, thrips, caterpillars, root mealybugs, etc.
You can purchase an insect repellent or try out some home remedies to get rid of insects on your houseplants.
