Habitat and Ecology
Peperomia clusiifolia, often referred to as Red Edge Peperomia or Clusier Leaf Peperomia, is a perennial evergreen subshrub native primarily to the Caribbean island of Jamaica. It grows as an epiphyte or lithophyte in humid tropical environments, anchoring itself onto tree trunks or rock crevices. Due to its thick, fleshy leaves, it has developed succulent qualities to store moisture, allowing it to survive periods of slight dryness in its native habitat while still requiring consistent warmth and bright, filtered light.
Description
This plant is a small, erect to mounding, bushy perennial, typically reaching 20-30 cm (8-12 inches) in height. The stems are thick and succulent, sometimes tinged reddish. Its foliage is highly decorative: the leaves are stiff, elliptical (obovate), thick, and glossy, resembling those of the Clusia genus (hence clusiifolia). The basic species has deep, glossy dark green blades, which are beautifully outlined by a distinct fine, dark red or maroon margin. Cultivars like 'Ginny' or 'Jelly' display extensive variegation with creams, pinks, and reds along the margins. It produces small, inconspicuous, greenish-white flowers clustered on slender, tail-like spikes during the warmer months, though it is grown purely for its ornamental foliage.
Cultivation
Peperomia clusiifolia is a resilient and low-maintenance houseplant. It thrives in bright, indirect light; ample light is necessary to maintain the vibrant red margins and glossy texture, but direct sun can scorch the leaves. As a semi-succulent, the key is to avoid overwatering. Use a loose, well-draining potting mix amended with perlite or grit. Allow the top half of the soil to dry out completely between waterings, especially in winter. It is quite adaptable to average household humidity but will benefit from increased moisture (50%+) in dry environments.
Optimal Daytime Temperature: 18-24 C (64-75 F)
Minimum Winter Temperature: Must be kept above 10 C (50 F). Avoid cold drafts.
Feed monthly with a balanced liquid fertiliser diluted to half strength during the spring and summer growing season. It prefers to be slightly pot-bound.
Unique Features
This Peperomia is prized for its striking, bold foliage aesthetic—the clean, thick, dark green leaves with their highly contrasting maroon border give it an elegant, architectural appearance. Its semi-succulent nature makes it more forgiving of occasional watering lapses compared to many tropical houseplants, and its compact, mounding growth habit makes it an ideal, low-maintenance feature plant for shelves and desktops.
Specifications
Plant Size: Good sized plants in pots as can be seen in the picture
Plant Family: Piperaceae
Plant Passport: A Peperomia clusiifolia B 140084 C [user input] D GB
