How to Grow and Care for Peperomia Caperata Rosso

The Peperomia caperata ‘Rosso’ is a popular houseplant recognized for its decorative foliage. Its leaves are deeply grooved with a dark green surface that contrasts sharply with their vibrant, red-to-purple undersides. This plant’s compact, rosette form makes it well-suited for placement on desks, shelves, and in terrariums.

Peperomia Rosso Care

Light

This plant flourishes in bright, indirect light. An ideal location is near a window with a sheer curtain to diffuse direct sunlight and prevent the leaves from scorching. Insufficient light may cause the plant to become “leggy” as it stretches towards a light source. Overly intense sunlight can fade the deep green color of the foliage and the red of the leaf undersides.

Soil

The fine root system of the Peperomia Rosso requires a potting medium with excellent drainage and aeration to prevent root rot. As an epiphyte, it is not accustomed to dense, wet soil. A suitable mix can be created by combining standard potting soil with perlite, orchid bark, or coco coir to increase porosity. A pre-made mix for succulents or cacti is also an effective choice.

Water

Overwatering is a common issue with this plant. Its leaves store water, making it somewhat drought-tolerant, so it is best to water only when the top 50% of the soil has dried out. Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom of the pot, and ensure the pot is not left sitting in a saucer of excess water to avoid root decay.

Temperature and Humidity

This plant prefers the warm and humid conditions of its native Brazilian rainforests, with ideal indoor temperatures from 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C). Protect it from cold drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations. While it thrives in higher humidity, it is adaptable and does well in average household levels. Placing it in a naturally humid room like a kitchen or bathroom is beneficial.

Fertilizer

Peperomia Rosso is not a heavy feeder and requires minimal fertilization. During the spring and summer growing season, apply a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer diluted to half-strength. This should only be done once or twice during the entire season. Pause fertilizing during the fall and winter when the plant’s growth slows.

Propagating Peperomia Rosso

This plant is most commonly propagated with leaf cuttings. Select a healthy, mature leaf with its attached stem (the petiole) and cut it from the main plant using clean, sharp scissors. To reduce the risk of rot, you can allow the cut end to callous over for a day before planting. The cutting can be rooted in either water or soil. For soil propagation, insert the petiole into a moist, well-draining potting mix and cover the pot with a plastic bag to create a humid environment.

Repotting Peperomia Rosso

Peperomia Rosso has a small root system and prefers to be slightly root-bound, so it only needs repotting every two to three years. Signs that it is time to repot include roots growing out of the drainage holes or slowed growth. Select a new pot that is only one size larger than the current one. Use a fresh, well-draining potting mix. Repotting is best done in the spring or early summer during the plant’s active growing period.

Common Problems

Most issues with Peperomia Rosso relate to improper watering or lighting. Yellowing leaves and mushy stems indicate overwatering and potential root rot, while drooping or curling leaves can signify underwatering. Leggy growth, with long and sparse stems, is a direct result of the plant not receiving enough light. While pests are not a major issue, weakened plants can be susceptible to mealybugs and fungus gnats. Fungus gnats in particular can become a problem if the soil is consistently overwatered.

Peperomia Rosso Toxicity

The Peperomia caperata ‘Rosso’ is considered non-toxic to cats and dogs by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) and is also safe for humans. While ingesting a large amount of any plant can cause mild stomach upset, this plant does not pose a significant threat.