Round Leaf Peperomia

Scientific name:  Peperomia rotundifolia
Synonyms: Jade Necklace, Trailing jade, Creeping buttons, and Round leaf Peperomia

The Round Leaf Peperomia is a delightful fast-growing trailing plant and highly sought after for its year-round appeal. Native to the Rainforest of South America where they are found creeping through the forests high and low. As an epiphytic tropical plant, they flourish in filtered bright light and moist, warm conditions. 

The jade-coloured leaves of this adorable houseplant appear to be almost round and are softly succulent. These are ideal houseplants for the novice through to the experienced indoor plant collector.

Note: Non-Toxic both humans and pets.

Common Symptoms

• Stunted growth: This may be due to your houseplant receiving the correct amount of light. Your peperomia thrives in bright filtered light, if your plant is not receiving enough light, relocate your peperomia to a brighter location but be sure it is not in direct sunlight. Other causes of stunted growth include being pot bound. Even though the peperomia likes a snug fit if it stops producing new growth it may need to be repotted. 
• Yellowing mushy leaves/leaf drop: Overwatering is the leading cause of houseplant expiration in most homes. Yellowing leaves are a sign of your peperomia being overwatered, another indication of over-saturated soil is if the leaves are mushy to the touch or turning brown. This means rot has set in which will also be causing excessive leaf drop. Amend this by allowing your soil to dry out two-thirds of the way before watering again. Be sure that your planter is draining correctly and use the guide of watering weekly during summer months and less often in winter.
• Dull foliage: As much as your the Peperomia Rotundifolia loves bright light, too much direct light can leave your leaves looking dull and washed out. Relocate your houseplant to a more filtered light spot to improve its appearance.
• Pests: Round Leaf peperomia are not known to be susceptible to pests but if care is not taken to keep your plant in its optimal conditions stress can occur. This will lead to pest infestations causing excessive yellowing fronds and leaf drop. Mealybug, scale and spider mites are common indoor plant pests and can weaken your plant relatively quickly if left untreated. Adjust environmental stressors for your house plant and treat infestations with an organic pesticide.

Care Instructions

• Origin: South America
• Height: Average 30cm in length and 20cm spread.
• Light: Bright filtered light.
• Water: Allow the soil to dry out two-thirds between watering.
• Humidity: Medium to high humidity is ideal. 
• Temperature: Ideal temperatures range from 18°C - 26°C.
• Soil: A well-draining organic potting mix is sufficient.
• Fertilizer: Use a well balanced organic fertilizer once a month.
• Repotting: Your Peperomia Rotundifolia will only need to be repotted every two years or so, or once the plant has become excessively rootbound. Be sure to up pot into a planter that has adequate drainage. Soak your plant 24 hours beforehand to assist with transplant shock and be sure to tamper with the roots as little as possible during repotting. It is best to re-pot during warmer weather.
• Propagation: Stem cuttings is one of the most successful ways of propagation. Select strong healthy stems and cut 7 - 8 cm below a leaf joint. Remove excess leaves from the base of the stem. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and place it in a container of water on a diffused window sill. Allow roots to develop, this should take 2 weeks approximately until they are at least 5 cm in length and then pot up a few cuttings in one well-draining planter with an organic potting medium for a fuller look.