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Trailing Peperomia

Plant care guide

How to care for Trailing Peperomia

Peperomia 'Hope' (P. quadrifolia x P. deppeana hybrid), Peperomia scandens 'Variegata', and Peperomia prostrata

Care level: ModerateNon-toxic to cats & dogs

Trailing peperomias spill gracefully over the edge of a pot, from Hope's round, coin-like leaves to the heart-shaped cream-edged leaves of Cupid and the tiny turtle-shell patterned leaves of String of Turtles. They're perfect for hanging baskets, shelves and anywhere you want a soft cascade of green.

Also known as: Trailing Peperomia, Hope Peperomia, Peperomia Hope, Variegated Cupid Peperomia, Cupid Peperomia, Peperomia scandens, False Philodendron, String of Turtles, Peperomia prostrata, Turtle Vine

Just arrived? Your first week at home

  1. Unbox it carefully and gently untangle the trailing stems; String of Turtles is especially delicate.
  2. Place it in bright, indirect light, away from direct sun, heat vents and cold drafts.
  3. Check the soil: water only if the top inch is dry; these plants prefer to dry out a little.
  4. A few dropped leaves or a yellow leaf after shipping is normal; tuck any healthy fallen pieces back into the soil to root.
  5. Don't repot for at least 2 weeks.
  6. If you hang it, make sure the spot is bright and not right above a heating vent.

Every plant is covered by our 30-day plant health guarantee. If your plant arrived damaged or isn't doing well, email a few photos to support@rootandreachbotanicals.com and we'll help you troubleshoot or make it right.

Light

Bright, indirect light is best, such as near an east window or a few feet from a south or west window. Low light leads to long, bare stems with small, widely spaced leaves. Avoid harsh direct sun, which scorches the small leaves, especially on String of Turtles.

Water

Water when the top inch or so is dry, about every 7 to 10 days in summer and less in winter. Hope and String of Turtles have thick, water-storing leaves and are especially sensitive to overwatering. Wrinkled or shriveled leaves mean thirst; yellow leaves, dropping leaves and mushy stems mean too much water.

Humidity

Average home humidity is fine, but String of Turtles appreciates a bit more. Grouping plants together helps in dry winter air.

Temperature

Keep it between 65 and 80 degrees F, away from cold drafts. Don't let it drop below about 55 degrees F.

Soil & repotting

Use a light, chunky, well-draining mix with lots of perlite or bark. A shallow pot or hanging basket with drainage suits their small roots. Repot every 2 to 3 years in spring.

Feeding

Feed monthly in spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength. Skip feeding in fall and winter.

Troubleshooting common problems

  • Leaves dropping and stems going mushyoverwatering. Let the soil dry more between waterings.
  • Shriveled leavesunderwatering. Give it a thorough drink when the top inch is dry.
  • Long, bare stemsnot enough light. Move it brighter and trim back leggy strands.
  • Variegation fading on Cupidlow light. Give it more filtered brightness.
  • Crispy leaves on String of Turtlesdirect sun or very dry air. Move to filtered light and add humidity.

Tips to help it thrive

  • All three root easily from stem cuttings; lay pieces on moist soil or tuck them back into the pot to make it fuller.
  • Trim long strands in spring to encourage bushier growth at the top.
  • Hanging planters and high shelves show off the trailing habit and keep stems away from pets.

Pet safety

Trailing Peperomia is listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs by the ASPCA. As with any houseplant, it's still best to discourage pets from chewing the leaves, which can cause a mild upset stomach.

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