Peperomia obtusifolia – baby rubber plant

Description

🌿 Light

• Thrives in bright, indirect light — near an east or west-facing window is ideal. (LifeTips)
• Tolerates moderate light but won’t grow as quickly; very low light will cause leggy, sparse stems. (Houseplant Central)
• Avoid strong direct sun, especially midday rays — this can scorch leaves. (LifeTips)

💧 Watering

• Let the soil dry slightly before watering again. Water when the top 1–2 inches of soil feels dry. (Planteza)
• These plants have succulent-like leaves, storing water — so they don’t like overwatering and are somewhat drought tolerant. (Grounded)
• Water thoroughly but ensure the pot has drainage holes and no water sits in a saucer. (Planteza)
• Reduce watering in winter as growth slows. (Planteza)

🌱 Soil & Potting

• Use a well-draining potting mix (e.g., with peat moss, perlite, or coarse sand). (Planteza)
• A cactus/succulent soil mix or adding perlite/bark improves aeration and prevents root rot. (Gardening Chores)
• Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. (Planteza)

🌡️ Temperature & Humidity

• Prefers warm temperatures about 18–27 °C (65–80 °F). (Planteza)
• Likes moderate humidity — average home humidity is usually fine, but occasional misting or a pebble tray can help. (Planteza)

🌿 Fertilizer

• Feed monthly during spring and summer with a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer. (Planteza)
• Skip fertilizer in fall/winter when growth slows. (Planteza)

✂️ Pruning & Maintenance

• Remove yellowing or damaged leaves to keep the plant tidy and healthy. (Planteza)
• Wiping leaves with a damp cloth helps them stay glossy and absorb light better. (House Planty)

🌱 Propagation

• Easy to propagate from stem cuttings: cut below a node, place in moist soil or water, and roots should develop in a few weeks. (Planteza)

✅ Common Problems

• Yellow leaves: often from overwatering or poor drainage. (Planteza)
• Leggy growth: usually due to insufficient light. (Planteza)
• Brown tips: can be from low humidity or too much fertilizer. (Planteza)
• Root rot: happens in soggy soil — improve drainage and water less. (Planteza)

🪴 Extra Tips

• Variegated forms may need a bit more light than all-green ones so their lighter leaf parts stay vibrant. (Houseplant Central)
• If soil dries too slowly, consider repotting to a smaller pot with better-draining mix. (reddit.com)