Peperomia Caperata Rosso is a tropical plant known as Emerald ripple Peperomia or Peperomia Rosso or Radiator Plant or peperomia caperata emerald ripple. This plant belongs to the Piperaceae family. And originates from Brazil, Central and South America. This plant has attractive foliage with striking red undersides and deeply corrugated, wrinkled dark green leaves which are pointed at the end. The foliage grows in rosette formation. Peperomias Rosso can grow about 8 inches high and wide. This Emerald Ripple Radiator Plant is a flowering species which blooms in spring and summer. This plant’s flowers are greenish-white and grow at the end of reddish spikes.
Radiator Plant is not only well known for its stunning features, but also, they are very low maintenance plants. Peperomias are one of my favourite plants, and I have quite a few varieties of them that sit on my working desk, Kitchen benchtop, coffee table etc.
Light
Rosso Peperomias do best in bright indirect light. Exposure to direct bright sunlight is a big no-no for Peperomia Rosso as the leaves can get burnt or the colours and variegations on the leaves can get faded. Fluorescent lighting is an excellent choice when grown indoors, but they don’t like to be kept in the dark, which will slow down the plant’s growth.
Temperature
As Peperomias are native to Central and South America, they prefer to stay in temperatures ranging between 13-24 degree Celsius. These plants do not tolerate extreme temperatures.
Peperomia Caperata Rosso soil Requirement
Peperomias are not succulents, but they demonstrate succulent like features. Well-draining soil that retains enough moisture will help the plant grow happily. For this Cacti or succulent potting mix will be perfect. You can make one by adding 1:1 ratio of Perlite and Peat moss. Peat moss helps retain moisture, whereas Perlite assists in draining the excess water. Make sure that the pot has enough drainage holes.
Rosso Peperomias like to be root bound so leave them in the same pot till you see the roots growing through the drainage holes. The root system is very delicate and fragile; therefore be very careful while repotting them.
Water Requirements
Emerald Ripple Peperomias cannot withstand extremes; therefore, do not allow them to dry out completely or over water them. When the soil feels dry to touch then thoroughly water them. These plants are not drought tolerant. Watering them once in a week or 10 days during spring and summer and cut back watering during the winter season. Make sure you do not water the crown as this can trigger rot. You can water them from the base of the pot.
Fertilisation
Always use a diluted liquid fertilizer once or twice a week during the growing season, i.e. spring and summer. Ensure that the fertilizer must not come in contact with the leaves of the plant as the leaves can get damaged.
Pruning
Pruning the plant during the spring season will help maintain the shape and size of the plant.
Is Peperomia toxic?
Peperomias are non-toxic for pets (cats and dogs) and children, but keeping them away from the reach of the children and pets is advisable to avoid any damage to this expensive plant.
If you are looking for other non-toxic or safe plants for your home, visit this link for all plants which are non-toxic to humans and pets.
And visit this link for some of the Toxic plants you should be careful with.
Pests and diseases
Peperomias are generally not affected much by pests or diseases. If your plant has got any pest infestation, then using homemade insecticides such as baking soda solution with dishwashing liquid or Neem oil solution will eradicate all those nasty creatures. Make sure to spray every nook and corner of your plant.
If you want to try readymade solution to deal with insects, try multipurpose insecticide spray which helps you to control insects like Aphids, Spider Mites, Japanese Beetles, Caterpillars, diseases like Fungicide controls Black Spot, Powdery Mildew.
In addition to the insecticide, you can also use these easy to use Sticky traps to attract flying inspects for indoor and outdoor plants. These insects traps are easy to use.
Peperomia Rosso Propagation
Peperomias are extremely easy to propagate. They can be propagated through stem or leaf cuttings. Propagating them during the spring season will give quick results. All you have to do is take the leaf or stem cutting and place it in water. Within 2-3 weeks, you will see the roots developing. Once the roots are well developed, transfer the cutting into the soil. You can place the cutting directly into the soil instead of keeping it in water. But you will not be able to monitor the growth of the roots. Propagating in water gives better and quick results than soil. This is from my own experience, but you can try whatever works for you well.
Please check out my video on care and propagation of Peperomia Caperata Rosso on YouTube.
Every time, I look at this plant, it makes me feel that life is beautiful. Nature has always gifted us with these beautiful plants. It is our responsibility to keep nature clean and healthy. So, stay healthy and think Green!!!
See this link for more Houseplants care and propagation tips.
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