Verticillata Red Log

Verticillata Red Log Care

Peperomia verticillata

Other names: Whorled Peperomia, Belly Button

What is the plant

For those into greenery but also a splash of color, this succulent color palette is the perfect marriage between jungle tropical and colorful.

Also known as Belly Button, this evergreen succulent is native to the tropical regions of South Africa. It is considered rare and, on average, doesn’t grow above 12 inches (31 cm).

Identification can be made through its characteristic double-shaded foliage. It has thick fleshy dark-green leaves with faint light green to cream veining. The undersides are deep wine-red, creating a contrasting palette of shades. It has trailing stems that are initially upright, but with time they begin to spill over due to their weight. It is covered in thin hair, giving it a fuzzy appearance. This plant is easy to grow and almost doesn’t grow during the cold season.

humidity

Normal

lighting

Part sun and part shade

temperature

20°C - 26°C

hardiness zone

10 - 11

difficulty

Medium

How to Care for the Plant

Water
This plant enjoys humidity, and the soil should be kept moderately moist. Despite this, don’t overwater and avoid leaving the soil soggy, allowing it to dry between watering sessions. Underwatering should also be avoided, as it can lead to wilting and dropping leaves. It should be watered more in the growing season to reduce the frequency in the cold season. A humidifier or pebble tray can be employed to ensure the right humidity levels.
Pruning
To maintain its compact growth and give this plant a bushier look, pinch off the growing tips occasionally during the growing season. Regularly remove dead leaves as well.
Fertilizer
It can be fed every 4 weeks during the growing season, but fertilization shouldn’t happen in cold months.

Disease diagnosis

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Sunlight
Bright light is ideal, although direct light should be avoided, as it leads to leaf scorching. Insufficient light will result in dull and less colorful foliage. Rotate it to prevent irregular growth, as it stretches visibly towards the light source.
Soil
Soil should be free-draining, loose, and rich in organic matter. Most cactus and succulent mixes are good picks.
Propagation
It can be propagated by plant division, stems, and leaf cuttings.

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Temperature
Red Log prefers warm temperatures, anywhere between 59-79 ºF (15-26 ºC). Usually, any temperature that is comfortable for you will be comfortable for it. If temperatures are too low, its leaves will begin dropping.
Container
Terracotta containers are Red Log’s favorite, but any container is great as long as it has drainage holes, as this plant is prone to root rot.
Popularity
423 people already have this plant 137 people have added this plant to their wishlists