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Peperomia caperata imagePhoto: Author Jerzy OpiołaGFDL

Emerald Ripple Peperomia

Peperomia caperata

Also known as: Peperomia Caperata, Ripple Pepper
Native to Brazil

Peperomia caperata is a compact, mound-forming evergreen perennial plant growing up to 20 cm (8 inches) tall and wide. It features distinctive heart-shaped leaves with deep corrugated textures that create a rippled appearance, typically in dark green hues. The plant produces narrow, upright flower spikes 5-8 cm (2-3 inches) long during summer, bearing tiny white flowers. Its small size and ornamental foliage make it particularly popular for tabletops and indoor displays.

Plant Care Overview

Difficultyeasy
Lightbright indirect light
Waterwhen top 2-3 cm of soil dries out (approximately weekly)
Humiditymedium

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Care Guide

Essential requirements for your Peperomia caperata

Light & Location

Light Requirements

bright indirect light

Light conditions can affect leaf color and growth rate. Adjust placement as needed based on your plant's response.

Water & Humidity

Watering Schedule

when top 2-3 cm of soil dries out (approximately weekly)

Humidity Needs

medium humidity

Always check soil moisture before watering. Adjust frequency based on your home's conditions.

Temperature & Environment

Temperature Range

15-24°C (59-75°F)

Native Climate

Native to Brazil

Keep away from drafts, heaters, and air conditioners which can stress your plant.

Soil & Nutrition

Soil Type

Well-draining mix (peat-based with perlite or sand)

Fertilizer

Balanced houseplant fertilizer during growing season

Consider repotting every 1-2 years to refresh soil nutrients and accommodate growth.

Propagation

Methods to grow more Peperomia caperata plants

Leaf cuttings or stem cuttings in water/moist soil

Plant Info

Characteristics and background information

Plant Characteristics
Native Region

Brazil

Growth Rate

slow

Mature Size

20 cm (8 inches) tall and wide

Lifecycle

perennial

Pet Safety
Pet Safe
🌸 Flowering

Indoor Blooming

This plant can produce flowers indoors when given proper care.

Bloom Season

summer

Flower Description

Slender white flower spikes resembling rat tails, composed of numerous tiny florets

Fun Fact

The species name 'caperata' means 'wrinkled' in Latin, describing its uniquely textured foliage.

Troubleshooting

Solutions for typical issues with your Peperomia caperata

Root rot
Symptoms

Yellowing leaves, mushy stems, soil odor

Mealybugs
Symptoms

White cottony masses on leaf joints/stems

Leaf drop
Symptoms

Sudden leaf loss, particularly lower leaves

Varieties

Different varieties of Peperomia caperata

Luna Red
Intense burgundy leaf coloration and compact growth habit (Award of Garden Merit recipient)

Popular cultivar with deep red-purple foliage

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