Baby Rubber Plant

Baby Rubber Plant Care

Peperomia obtusifolia

Other names: American Rubber Plant, Baby Rubberplant, Oval Leaf Peperomia, Pepper Face, Rhynchophorum

What is the plant

The Baby Rubber plant or Peperomia is a part of a large family of more than 1000 species. This succulent charms people with its glossy foliage. By the way, you don't need to be a genius to grow it.

Peperomia obtusifolia is a Central and South American native. It derives from a big family with over 1000 species. In its natural habitat, it got used to humid weather and low light. So, purchasing a humidifier may be a must.

It is an evergreen plant. The leaves are usually glossy and oval; the color palette varies from dark green to cream and variegated. The flower is usually cream-white and has no petals.

The other common names are American rubber plant, Pepper Face, Oval Leaf Peperomia, etc. It is not toxic for cats and dogs.

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Humidity

Normal

Lighting

Part Sun

Temperature

18°C - 25°C

Hardiness zone

10a - 11b

Difficulty

Medium

Hibernation

Cold Period

How to Care for the Plant

Water
Moderate watering will suffice; this plant is not too demanding. However, it hates overwatering and overdrying.
Pruning
Pruning can help to maximize this baby's lush look, encouraging growth. Pinch back any sparse growth to achieve the form to your liking.
Fertilizer
This plant does not require additional fertilization. Correct lighting and moderate watering are enough.

Disease diagnosis

Check your plant’s health

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Sunlight
Baby rubber plant requires bright light, but not the direct sun — it can burn leaves. Morning light works just fine.
Soil
Baby rubber plant requires well-drained peat-based soil.
Propagation
Spring is the best time for propagation as the growth is the most active. You should cut off a leaf with at least an inch of a stem, put it into a pot with potting soil, and cover it with plastic wrap. The roots will form within a few weeks with the help of consistent watering and a mini-greenhouse environment.

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Temperature
As a tropical native, this baby prefers a relatively warm environment, so an average home temperature (65—75 ºF (18—23˚C)) works just fine.
Container
The container shouldn't be too big but should have drainage holes. There is no need for frequent repotting either.
Fun fact
It is not related to Hevea brasiliensis, the actual resource of natural rubber. Nevertheless, it got a rubber-related nickname.