Peperomia graveolens is an ornamental, succulent, and perennial houseplant and one of the many peperomia species from the family Piperaceae. This plant is native to southern Ecuador and well-known in the Oña river and in the Loja province.
Peperomia graveolens grows in the reasonably elevated dry regions of Cordillera on the cliffs where it adapted to the climate. It was first collected in 1973 by German botanists at an altitude range of 2000 to 2500 meters. The plant is a mini shrub growing about 10” inches in height. Growing indoors plants may grow taller as they stretch for light. It sprouts gleaming red stems in wine red color and has succulent leaves, which are also wine red shade except for the upper part of the plant where it has a transparent v-shaped ‘window’ that allows the process of photosynthesis.
Water the plant moderately but be consistent with watering when the plant is growing. Water so the soil gets moist but is not soggy. When watering, make sure that the first inch of soil dries out before watering more. Decrease the watering in the winter months.
Graveolens peperomia grows easily under bright light, but does best when placed away from direct sunlight. The best location for the ruby glow peperomia plant is indoors near a window facing east or north. It also thrives when growing under fluorescent plant grow lights.
Graveolens prefers moist, humus-rich peat-based or well-drained soil. The ideal mix for this plant is one part perlite or sand and two parts peat.
The ideal temperature is between 65°-75°F (18°C and 24°C). It does not like cold and it is best to avoid the temperature below 60°F.
