The Teardrop Peperomia (Peperomia orba), also known as Pixie Peperomia, is a common houseplant. Its distinctive name comes from its small, thick, waxy, teardrop-shaped leaves. This compact plant features bright green foliage, sometimes accented with white stripes.
Teardrop Peperomia Care
Light Requirements
Teardrop Peperomia thrives in bright, indirect light. An east-facing window with sheer curtains provides gentle morning light to prevent scorching. Insufficient light dulls leaf color and can cause leggy growth or leaf drop. Too much direct sunlight causes leaf burns and discoloration.
Watering Needs
As a semi-succulent, Teardrop Peperomia stores water in its fleshy leaves, making it drought-tolerant. Allow the top two to three inches of soil to dry completely between waterings to prevent common root rot. Overwatering causes yellowing leaves and wilting; underwatering leads to crispy, curled, or brown leaves. Check soil moisture with your finger before watering.
Soil and Potting
Teardrop Peperomia requires a loose, well-draining potting mix for its shallow root system. A suitable blend includes organic matter, like a cactus or succulent mix. Improve regular houseplant potting soil by adding perlite or orchid bark to enhance drainage and prevent waterlogging. Pots with drainage holes are essential for excess water to escape.
Temperature and Humidity
This plant prefers warm indoor temperatures, between 18 to 24 degrees Celsius (65-75 degrees Fahrenheit). Avoid temperatures below 10 degrees Celsius (50 degrees Fahrenheit) as it does not tolerate cold, leading to reduced growth or leaf drop. Average household humidity levels (40-60%) are sufficient. Increased humidity benefits the plant in dry environments, but excessive misting encourages fungal issues.
Fertilizing
Teardrop Peperomia is not a heavy feeder, benefiting from moderate fertilization. During its active growing season in spring and summer, apply a balanced liquid fertilizer, like a 10-10-10 formula, monthly or every four to six weeks. Dilute fertilizer to half strength to avoid over-fertilization, which burns roots and causes leaf yellowing. Withhold fertilization during fall and winter when growth slows.
Propagating Teardrop Peperomia
Teardrop Peperomia propagates easily from stem or leaf cuttings, with spring and summer being the best times due to active growth.
Stem Cuttings
For stem cuttings, select a healthy 2-4 inch segment with at least two or three leaves, removing lower leaves. Place cuttings in clean water, leaves above waterline; roots emerge in weeks. Alternatively, insert cuttings directly into moist, well-draining potting mix; rooting takes 6-10 weeks.
Leaf Cuttings
For leaf cuttings, choose a healthy, mature leaf and cut it at the base, ensuring a small portion of the petiole remains attached. Rooting hormone is optional but can encourage faster root development. Plant the leaf cutting into moist, well-draining soil, burying the stem slightly. Maintain bright, indirect light and consistent humidity to support rooting, though leaf cuttings take longer to show new top growth than stem cuttings.
Common Problems and Solutions
Drooping or wilting leaves indicate watering issues (too much or too little). Consistently wet soil suggests overwatering and root rot; dry, crispy leaves indicate underwatering. Adjusting the watering schedule to allow soil to dry between waterings is the first step. Leaf yellowing can also signal improper watering, nutrient deficiency, too much light, or over-fertilization.
Leaf drop is common, caused by fluctuations in watering, temperature, or light. Drastic temperature changes or insufficient light also cause leaf drop. Stunted growth, though Peperomias are naturally slow growers, indicates insufficient light or nutrients. Provide appropriate light and a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
Spider mites and mealybugs can affect Teardrop Peperomia. Regularly inspect foliage, especially undersides of leaves, for early detection. For mild infestations, manually remove mealybugs with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil for spider mites and mealybugs.
Teardrop Peperomia Toxicity
Teardrop Peperomia (Peperomia orba) is non-toxic, making it safe for homes with pets and children. It is not poisonous to common household animals like cats, dogs, or horses.