Cupid Peperomia

Cupid Peperomia (Peperomia scandens “Variegata”):

🌱 Plant Overview

• Botanical name: Peperomia scandens "Variegata"

• Family: Piperaceae

• Common names: Cupid Peperomia, False Philodendron, Radiator Plant

• Type: Trailing/tropical perennial houseplant

• Appearance:

  • Heart-shaped, waxy, thick leaves with creamy-yellow or light-green variegation along the edges.

  • Trailing growth habit, perfect for hanging baskets, tabletop pots, or as a shelf plant.

  • Compact, easy to maintain, and air-purifying.

🪴 Soil Requirements

• Needs light, well-draining soil.

• Best potting mix:

  • 2 parts peat moss or coco peat (for moisture retention)

  • 1 part perlite or coarse sand (for aeration & drainage)

  • Optional: Add a little orchid bark for extra airflow around roots.

• pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0 – 7.0).

💧 Watering & Interval

• Cupid Peperomia stores some water in its fleshy leaves, so it doesn’t need frequent watering.

• Watering routine:

  • Spring–Summer (active growth): Water once every 5–7 days, or when the top 2–3 cm of soil is dry.

  • Winter (slower growth): Reduce watering to every 10–14 days.

• Avoid overwatering → can lead to root rot.

• Best method: Bottom watering (let the plant soak water from a tray for 15 minutes, then drain).

☀️ Sunlight Requirement

• Prefers bright, indirect light.

• Can tolerate medium light, but variegation may fade.

• Avoid harsh direct sunlight as it can scorch leaves.

• Indoors: East or north-facing window is best.

• Outdoors: Place in filtered light or partial shade.

🌡️ Temperature & Humidity

• Temperature: Thrives in 18–26°C, avoid below 15°C.

• Humidity: Prefers 40–60% humidity.

  • Tolerates average indoor humidity but appreciates occasional misting.

  • In dry climates, use a humidity tray or place near other plants.

✂️ Growth & Maintenance

• Grows fast in warm, bright conditions.

• Trails nicely, making it great for hanging baskets.

• Pinch or trim long stems to encourage bushier growth.

• Repot every 2–3 years, as roots like being slightly pot-bound.

🌱 Propagation Tips

Cupid Peperomia is easy to propagate:

1. Stem Cuttings (most common):

   • Take a 7–10 cm cutting with at least 2–3 leaf nodes.

   • Place in water or directly into moist soil.

   • Roots form in 2–4 weeks.

2. Leaf Cuttings:

   • Cut a healthy leaf with a petiole and insert into soil.

   • Slower than stem cuttings but works well.

3. Division:

   • During repotting, separate clumps and replant.

⚠️ Common Issues

• Overwatering → root rot.

• Too little light → loss of variegation & leggy stems.

• Cold drafts → leaf drop.

• Pests: Occasionally mealybugs or spider mites in very dry conditions.

✅ In Summary:
Cupid Peperomia is a charming, low-maintenance trailing plant with heart-shaped variegated leaves. It thrives in well-draining soil, bright indirect light, and moderate watering. Easy to propagate and beginner-friendly, it’s perfect for hanging baskets or as a decorative indoor plant.