Peperomia caperata
Common name: Ripple peperomia · Emerald ripple peperomia
Peperomia caperata is a compact evergreen perennial in the pepper family (Piperaceae), native to the rainforests of Brazil. It is prized for its deeply corrugated, heart-shaped leaves, which give rise to the common name "ripple peperomia" and come in shades of green, silver, and burgundy depending on the cultivar. Its small size and tolerance of indoor conditions have made it one of the most widely grown peperomias as a houseplant.
Care summary
Sun
Medium to bright indirect light; no direct sun
Water
Water sparingly; let soil partly dry out
Soil
Airy, well-draining potting mix
Hardiness
Zones 10–12
Mature height
About 15–20 cm (0.5–0.7 ft)
Pet safe
Yes — non-toxic to cats and dogs
Difficulty
Moderate
Propagation
Propagate from leaf cuttings or stem cuttings. Detach a healthy leaf with its petiole and insert the stalk into a moist, airy mix (or lay leaf halves vein-down on the surface), keep humid and warm, and small plantlets will form at the base over several weeks.
Fun facts
- The specific epithet "caperata" is Latin for "wrinkled," referring to the puckered leaf surface.
- It produces slender white flower spikes that rise well above the foliage like little tails.
- Many popular cultivars exist, including 'Rosso', 'Luna Red', and the silvery 'Frost'.
- Peperomias are sometimes called "radiator plants," a nickname from their love of warm, humid spots.