Family: Piperaceae
Common Name: Radiator Plant, Rubber Plant
Botanical Name: Peperomia albovittata ‘Rana Verde’
Peperomia Rana Verde has it going on! It's perfectly compact, requires little care, and has the loveliest waffled textured round leaves that sit above rose-colored stems. This is a great indoor plant for limited spaces as it rarely grows taller than 8-10". Water this Peperomia only when the soil becomes completely dry. A little trick is picking up your plant and feeling the weight; if it feels very light, it's time to water it! Remember to feel the weight of it after you have watered it for future reference.
Light
Peperomia Rana Verde prefers bright indirect light. It is best to place this type of light near a south- or west-facing window or very close to a north- or east-facing window. Be sure the foliage is protected from the harsh afternoon direct sun rays, as direct sunlight will cause leaf scorch or discolor the leaves. This plant can tolerate medium light but become weaker and leggy, producing fewer leaves in low light.
Water
Water your Peperomia Rana Verde every 1-2 weeks during the growing season and reduce how often you water your plant when it's cooler outside. You should use room-temperature water and avoid any water that is too cold. Overly cold water could shock the plant!
Soil
Peperomia Rana Verde prefers a well-draining soil mix that lets the water flow freely throughout the pot's drainage holes. Try for a pH range between 6.0 and 7.0. You can use a soil pH testing kit to determine if the pH level is within this range.
Temperature
Peperomia Rana Verde will thrive most in temperatures between 65°F (18°C) and 80°F (18°C to 27°C). It is crucial that the temperatures do not fluctuate too much to promote its overall health. Do not expose this plant to temperatures that are below 50 degrees, as that can damage the plant.
Humidity
This plant prefers humidity levels that range from 50% to 60%. High humidity levels help replicate a Peperomia Rana Verde plant's natural habitat. To increase humidity levels, you can mist the plant, group plants together, use a humidifier, or provide a tray with water and pebbles. Be sure to avoid your plant being in dry air, as Watermelon Peperomia plants are very sensitive to dry air!
Fertilizer
This plant is not a heavy feeder, however, fertilize your Peperomia Rana Verde plant approximately every four weeks during the growing season. Reduce or pause fertilization during the fall and winter months. You should use a balanced, water-soluble houseplant fertilizer with a ratio equal to nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (10-10-10 or 20-20-20). This will provide your plant with the right amount of nutrients.
Growth Rate
Your Peperomia Rana Verde plant can reach a mature height that ranges from a few inches to about a foot (30 cm). There are some Peperomia plant varieties that can grow a bit taller under optimal conditions.
Pet Friend or Foe
Peperomia Rana Verde is considered non-toxic to pets! Friend!
Pro Tips
- You should prune your Peperomia Rana Verde regularly to encourage new growth and keep the plant’s look.
- Plan to repot your plant every few years or when it becomes root bound.
- Always keep an eye out for common houseplant pests like spider mites or mealybugs. If you see any, address the situation accordingly!
- To keep up with moderate humidity levels, mist your plant occasionally or provide a tray of water by it!