Find out all about peperomia and its history. Where the plant comes from and interesting stories about the plant, such as how it got its common name, radiator plant. Also about the various varieties and their growth habits.
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Today, we are adding to another installment of Plant Stories. This one is about Peperomia, commonly known as the radiator plant. The specific variety featured today is Peperomia obstifolia, cultivar Golden Gate, which showcases a beautiful gold color on its leaves.
Peperomia is a genus in the pepper family, comprising over a thousand species of tropical and subtropical fleshy herbs, including annuals and perennials. However, only a few are cultivated for indoor growing, like this lovely beauty here.
The radiator plant is named for its preference for warm conditions, often found near radiators or windows. As mentioned, it shares relatives with the staple black pepper (Piper nigrum). These heat-loving plants are native to tropical and subtropical regions and vary in appearance. Some have round leaves, others have long or flatter leaves, and many come in different colors, including red and deep green.
It’s fascinating that some varieties can be challenging to distinguish from one another due to their different appearances. The growth habits also vary, with most Peperomia being slow growers. Some have a mounding growth pattern, while others may trail slightly. To create a larger plant, consider planting several together in the same pot.
In the United States, about a hundred species of Peperomia are cultivated, but many are held by collectors, making them less common in nurseries and mail order. If you find a unique variety, it’s a good idea to snap it up, as you may not come across it again.
The common name “radiator plant” was popularized by American horticulturist Liberty Hyde Bailey. He noted that these plants thrive in warm air and sunlight. Despite their preference for warmth, Peperomias can tolerate both wet and dry climates, making them easy to grow indoors, provided you avoid overwatering.
Some Peperomia species have a spicy odor when the leaves are crushed, and in some regions, the leaves are used to flavor drinks. While they may resemble succulents with their thick, fleshy leaves, most are not desert plants, except for a few species found in Peru. They prefer moisture, so try not to let them dry out too much.
It’s theorized that their thick leaves help retain water since many Peperomia grow as epiphytes in their natural habitats, hanging from trees without roots in the soil. This adaptation allows them to store water in their leaves during dry periods.
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Peperomia (Radiator Plant) FAQs
What is Peperomia commonly known as?
Peperomia is commonly known as the radiator plant.
Why is it called the radiator plant?
It is named for its preference for warm conditions often found near radiators and windows.
How many species of Peperomia are cultivated in the U.S.?
Approximately a hundred species of Peperomia are cultivated in the United States, though many are held by collectors.
Can Peperomia tolerate different climates?
Yes, Peperomia can tolerate both wet and dry climates, making them easy to grow indoors if not overwatered.
What is the growth habit of Peperomia?
Peperomia are generally slow growers, with some having a mounding habit while others may trail slightly.
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