Peperomia prostrata is an extremely ornamental potted plant characterized by drooping stems covered with small round fleshy leaves resembling a turtle’s shell. It comes from tropical areas, but it copes with domestic conditions without any problems. Learn more about growing and caring for peperomia and it will become an interesting addition to your home decor.
Peperomia prostrata – turtle shell
Peperomia prostrata, also known as Peperomia string of turtles, is a unique plant that comes from the tropical forests of South America. In the wild, it is an epiphyte growing on tree trunks. It reaches a small size when it grows to a height of 30-35 cm. It has long, reddish-brown stems that hang beautifully from pots. They are covered with small round fleshy leaves with a diameter of 1-2 cm. Peperomia leaves are dark green in color with a distinctive silver-green marking that resembles a turtle shell (for this reason, the plant is sometimes called a string of turtles, “String of Turtles”). In spring and summer, the plant produces small and inconspicuous flowers, which are collected in characteristic inflorescences. They resemble slender tips and are odorless (they have no decorative value and can therefore be cut).
How to grow peperomia prostrata?
Although peperomia prostrata has a tropical origin, it also thrives in our homes. Just give it the right conditions and it will delight the eye with its unique appearance. How to grow peperomia prostrata?
Position
The plant needs enough light, but it should be diffused (does not tolerate direct sunlight, which can cause burns on the leaves). If there is too little light, the stems of peperomia lengthen and the leaves are small and poorly colored. Its lack is most felt by plants in winter, when the days are short and cloudy (then artificial lighting may be necessary). Peperomia prostrata requires relatively high temperatures throughout the year and does not go through a typical period of rest. The optimal temperature should be 20-24 °C in summer and 16-17 °C in winter. The plant does not like places that are exposed to drafts or near heat sources. Sometimes it happens that peperomia begins to lose its leaves during the summer. In addition, they fade and lose their attractive coloring. This is usually caused by a high level of sunlight and an excessively high temperature in the room. In such a situation, you need to move the plant to the shade and ensure its lower temperature.
Soil
Peperomia prostrata expects a fertile and permeable substrate. A mixture of universal soil with peat and sand (or perlite) is best suited. You can also choose a special substrate for cacti and succulents. It is a tolerant plant in relation to the soil reaction, but it prefers a slightly acidic soil.
Watering and fertilizing
When growing peperomia, regular watering is importantbecause its root system is not very well developed. Beware of excessive watering, which causes rotting of the roots and the base of the shoots. Water the plant only when the top layer of the substrate dries. Use soft water (room temperature) for watering. Given its origins peperomia prostrata requires high humidity. With this plant, spraying the leaves is not the best idea, as this can contribute to the development of fungal diseases. You can place a humidifier around the plant or place the pot on a saucer filled with wet rocks.
Peperomia prostrata needs fertilization during spring and summer. Once every two weeks, it is recommended to use a combined fertilizer intended for plants with ornamental leaves. In winter, it is best to stop fertilizing completely.
Replanting
Peperomia is transplanted every 2-3 years. It is transplanted in the springtaking care not to damage the delicate root system. When transplanting the plant, don’t forget to put a drainage layer on the bottom of the pot (e.g. gravel or expanded clay), which will allow water to drain and prevent root rot. Then place the peperomia and cover it with fresh soil. Finally, the substrate is lightly compacted and watered.
Reproduction
Peperomia can be propagated in several ways. This is best done in the spring by taking stem cuttings (they should be about 3-5 cm long). Then they are placed several by one in pots filled with substrate and covered with foil. The containers with the plants are placed in a warm place with a temperature of about 18 °C and after about 3 weeks roots should appear. Another way of propagating peperomia is division. Take the plant out of the pot and divide it into 2-3 parts, which are then planted in separate pots with a drainage layer on the bottom. It is recommended to do this every few years to rejuvenate the plant.
Diseases and pests
Peperomia is relatively resistant to disease attack, but excessive moisture can lead to rotting of the shoots and death of the roots. Sometimes it can be attacked by mites, especially if it is grown indoors with too dry air.
Peperomia prostrata – use
Peperomia prostrata will become a distinctive decoration of any room. It grows quickly and forms impressive cascades, so it looks best in hanging pots or baskets. It is ideal for placing on high shelves or bookcases so that its stems can hang beautifully. In addition, the plant can be used to create a tropical forest in a container. In addition to its decorative properties, peperomia is also very easy to care forwhich means that even inexperienced plant lovers can handle it.
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