Peperomia caperata 'Quito Lime' is a distinctive cultivar of Peperomia, celebrated for its richly coloured limey, heart-shaped leaves. The foliage of 'Quito' is lime green with a deep, red undertone that becomes more prominent in bright light. The leaves are heavily textured, with a quilted or puckered surface. This compact plant typically reaches a height of about 20-25 cm, making it an excellent choice for small spaces or as part of a mixed indoor plant display.
Native to:
Peperomia caperata 'Quito Lime' is native to the understory of tropical rainforests in Brazil. In its natural habitat, it grows in the humid, shaded environments of the forest floor, where it benefits from the moisture and filtered light provided by the dense canopy above.
Water:
This Peperomia prefers its soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Water the plant thoroughly when the top 2.5 cm of soil feels dry to the touch, ensuring that the pot has good drainage to prevent water from sitting at the roots. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it's crucial to avoid letting the soil remain consistently wet.
Light:
Peperomia caperata 'Quito Lime' thrives in bright, indirect light. While it can tolerate lower light conditions, its deep leaf colour and texture are more vibrant when exposed to sufficient light. However, avoid direct sunlight, especially in the middle of the day, as this can cause the leaves to fade or scorch.
Humidity:
This plant prefers moderate to high humidity levels, ideally around 50-60%. While it can adapt to average indoor humidity, it will benefit from being misted occasionally or placed on a humidity tray. Due to its compact size, it is also well-suited for growing in a terrarium, which can help maintain higher humidity levels.
Temperature:
Peperomia caperata 'Quito' thrives in temperatures between 18°C and 24°C. It does not tolerate cold well, so it should be kept away from draughts or temperatures below 15°C. Consistent warmth will support healthy growth and maintain the plant’s vibrant leaf colour.