Why will I love it?
The baby rubber plant (Peperomia obtusifolia) is a supermarket staple with glossy, oval leaves. Its resilience to neglect and low light allows it to survive the fluorescent lights of the supermarket, making it an ideal choice for novice browsers looking for a hassle-free addition to their collection.
Light or shade?
It thrives in bright, indirect light. Lower light conditions may cause slower growth and fewer leaves.
Where should I put it?
Since it doesn’t require much space or attention, it’s a nice easy way to add a touch of nature to your home or office.
How do I keep it alive?
Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot. It adapts well to average indoor humidity but benefits from occasional misting or a tray of water-filled pebbles. Keep it between 18-27C and use well-draining cacti/succulent compost. Feed with liquid fertiliser every four to six weeks during the growing season.
Did you know …
This isn’t a relative of the rubber plant; it belongs to the Peperomia genus, which includes more than 1,000 species. Variations include heart-, oval- or almond-shaped leaves, in colours ranging from solid green to variegated or striped.
The baby rubber plant, Peperomia obtusifolia, is a popular choice for beginners due to its glossy, oval leaves and ability to thrive in low light conditions. It is a resilient plant that can survive under fluorescent lights, making it a convenient addition to any collection.
It prefers bright, indirect light for optimal growth, but can tolerate lower light levels with slower growth. This plant is low-maintenance and doesn’t require much space or attention, making it a perfect choice for homes and offices.
To keep the baby rubber plant alive, allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings to avoid root rot. It benefits from occasional misting or a water-filled tray of pebbles to increase humidity. Keep the plant in temperatures between 18-27C and use well-draining cacti/succulent compost. Feed with liquid fertilizer every four to six weeks during the growing season.
Fun fact: The baby rubber plant is not related to the rubber plant; it belongs to the Peperomia genus, which consists of over 1,000 species. Varieties of this plant have different leaf shapes and colors, ranging from solid green to variegated or striped.