Peperomia maculosa.


Peperomia caperata 'Abricos'.


Radiator Plants Peperomia With literally thousands of different varieties of pepero-


mia, the only common trait they share is a succulent and fleshy leaf. Leaves vary in colour, size, texture, shape and pattern, some even look like rosettes or sedums. Pepero- mia, P. argyreia or watermelon peperomia as it is referred to, has silver stripes with elliptical shaped leaves while the Peperomia obtusifolia, or baby rubber plant has an upright demeanor. There are numerous varieties to choose from, and as


they tend to remain compact, they are suitable for grow- ing in small spaces. The other trait peperomias share is a ‘rattail flower’. The flowers are essentially long, thin spikes


Peperomia argyreia (Watermelon).


Peperomia caperata 'Kirsten'.


sticking out of the plant that resemble rat tails. These relatively care-free plants prefer low to medium


light and moderately dry soil. They will tolerate florescent lighting or supposedly even being placed on a radiator, which is how they received their nickname, though we don’t recommend that. They will forgive a missed watering or two, but will


start shedding leaves if you’ve missed too many. On the other hand overwatering will lead to rot. They are best watered from below without soaking the crown of the plant. Peperomias are wonderful additions to terrariums, dish


planters or as fillers under larger potted plants. They are easily propagated from leaf or tip cuttings.


Peperomia columbiana.


Peperomia caperata 'Lilian'.


Peperomia nevada.


Peperomia prostrata.


Chlorophytum comosum 'Bonnie Green'.


Spider Plant Chlorophytum comosum Nicknamed for the plantlets that dangle down from the


mother plants, the spider plant is a quite common house- plant. They are easily cared for and the plantlets can be placed directly in the soil or water to root providing you with a never ending supply of spider plants. They have variegated grass-like leaves and like indirect,


natural light. These plants tend to be the thirstiest of the ones we’ve recommended but even they will forgive a little negligence on your part. If you’re sick of the plain, old spider plant try out


‘Bonnie’. White and green variegated leaves twist and curl in an unusual pattern creating a very interesting looking plant. 


22 • Dreaming 2016 Chlorophytum comosum. localgardener.net


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