Synonyms:

No synonyms are recorded for this species name.

Habitat:

Peperomia graveolens is found only in southern Ecuador. It is limited to two areas: one near the Oña river, where it was first discovered in 1973, and another in the province of Loja, with the exact location unspecified (Azuay, Loja, and El Oro provinces).

Description:

Peperomia graveolens is a lovely evergreen plant that grows above the ground. It has striking wine-red stems and glossy red succulent leaves with transparent green “windows” on top, resembling chubby canoes with sunroofs. The bottom of the leaves is burgundy, helping the plant soak up sunlight under the canopy. It grows in a rounded shape and reaches a height of 10-20 cm. The small bloom spikes are covered with tiny yellowish-white flowers, almost microscopic, emitting a somewhat unpleasant odor, as “graveolens” means bad smelling. This species is only known from two wild populations, and all cultivated plants are descendants of collections made in 1973 by German botanists. Originally considered a red form of Peperomia dolabriformis, it differs in various aspects besides color. The stems are wine-red, and the leaves are extremely succulent, thick, and wine-red, with a v-shaped transparent bluish-green “window” on top for photosynthesis. Mature leaves are thick and blunt at the tip, giving them a polished appearance with an oily sheen. The green upper side is glossy, while the red underside has a matte finish, creating a pleasant contrast. The red undersides of the leaves help absorb and utilize light for photosynthesis, as the forest floor’s light is green in spectrum. The inflorescences are terminal flower racemes that look like long, thin rat tails, appearing powdery lime-green to the naked eye. They grow singularly on long red stems. The flowers are yellowish-white with a white margin, almost microscopic, not very showy, and have a smell reminiscent of mouse’s urine.

Cultivation:

 Peperomia graveolens is an easy-to-care-for plant that thrives in both direct sun and bright indirect light. However, it achieves its best appearance when grown in a south-facing window. In the past, it was rare in cultivation, but its vibrant leaves have made it popular in nurseries since the 1990s. While it does produce greenish-white, panicle-like flower spikes, it is primarily grown for its attractive foliage. Placing it at the front of a bench or on a shelf enhances its appeal. Peperomia graveolens is not difficult to grow, but it’s essential to avoid over-watering. For those seeking a unique Peperomia variety, this one stands out. In warmer climates, particularly in sub-tropical or tropical areas, these plants can be grown outdoors as ground cover. For successful cultivation, it’s crucial to provide very porous soil with excellent drainage. As a forest-dwelling plant, Peperomia graveolens thrives with good airflow and soil that allows water to quickly drain away from the roots. The plant prefers being slightly pot-bound. When grown outdoors, choose well-drained soil in partial shade. Watering should be moderate during summer, allowing the soil to moderately dry between waterings. In winter, water sparingly with room-temperature water. Despite its succulent nature, it prefers not to completely dry out and likes to continue growing throughout the year. Fertilize during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Peperomia graveolens thrives in filtered light with ample airflow, and it’s important to avoid drafts. Indoors, it requires bright indirect light but can tolerate low light conditions. While it is not particular about temperature, it does best in a moderate to warm environment and should be protected from frost. This plant is well-suited for windowsill culture or as an accent in dish gardens. However, it is not suitable for in-ground planting unless you live in tropical regions.

Propagation:

Propagation of Peperomia graveolens typically involves the use of cuttings, which can be initiated from individual leaves, small shoots, or vegetative sections. To enhance the rooting process, it is advisable to make a slanting or bias cut, increasing the available surface area for root development. This technique ensures that the cuttings have an ample area to establish roots, promoting successful propagation. This method is commonly employed to propagate new plants and is favored for its effectiveness in generating healthy and robust Peperomia graveolens specimens. Whether initiated from single leaves or small shoots, the careful implementation of bias cuts plays a pivotal role in encouraging successful root formation, contributing to the overall success of the propagation process for this particular Peperomia species.

Curiosity:

Peperomia stands out as one of the most extensive genera in the plant kingdom, boasting a diverse collection of over 1100 species. This remarkable diversity within the Peperomia genus highlights its significance and prominence within the realm of plant taxonomy. With a broad spectrum of species, Peperomia encompasses a wide range of characteristics, making it a fascinating and expansive group of plants for botanical enthusiasts and researchers alike. The vast number of species underscores the genus’s adaptability to various environmental conditions, showcasing the resilience and versatility that define Peperomia as a notable and influential plant genus.

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