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Habitat

 

Peperomia wolfgang-krahnii is endemic to Peru, restricted to dry inter-Andean valleys at elevations of 1,500–2,500 metres. It grows in rocky outcrops and crevices, often exposed to high light and seasonal drought. The environment is marked by bright sun, low humidity, and strong day–night temperature shifts, which have selected for its distinctive succulent and water-conserving morphology.

 

Description

 

This species forms compact rosettes up to 20 cm across, with thick, triangular to ovate leaves measuring 3–7 cm long. The leaves are grey-green, folded, and deeply corrugated, giving them a rugged, almost stone-like texture. The upper surface has a silvery matte tone, while the underside is paler. These morphological traits minimise water loss in arid conditions. Inflorescences are slender rat-tail spikes, 5–10 cm long, carrying minute yellowish-green flowers, followed by tiny drupaceous fruits containing a single seed.

 

Cultivation

 

Peperomia wolfgang-krahnii thrives in very bright light to full sun, with some shading at midday in hot climates. A well-draining, mineral-based soil such as cactus mix with pumice, perlite, or coarse sand is essential. Plants should be watered on a soak-and-dry cycle, allowing the soil to dry completely before rewatering. Overwatering must be avoided as roots are highly susceptible to rot. Optimal conditions are daytime temperatures of 22–28 °C and nighttime temperatures of 12–16 °C, with moderate humidity between 40–60%. Light fertilisation during the active season is sufficient. It is a slow-growing and drought-tolerant species that benefits from strong air movement.

 

Diagnostic Comparison

 

Within the succulent-leaved group of Peperomia, P. wolfgang-krahnii is often confused with similar species. Key differences include:

 

P. columella – Stems form upright, trailing columns covered with overlapping window-leaves; leaves much smaller (4–10 mm), with translucent epidermal “windows,” unlike the broad, corrugated blades of P. wolfgang-krahnii.

 

P. nivalis – Compact rosettes with V-shaped, fleshy leaves that also have translucent windows; much smaller leaves (1–2 cm), smooth and glossy, lacking the rugged corrugation of P. wolfgang-krahnii.

 

P. axillaris – Erect stems with opposite, boat-shaped, bright green translucent leaves; forms columnar growth rather than rosettes; leaves smooth and folded, not rough.

 

P. dolabriformis – Characterised by hatchet-shaped leaves with translucent upper surfaces, arranged in upright columns; leaves glossy and green, lacking corrugation.

 

P. asperula – Similar Peruvian species with rugose leaves, but the blades are smaller, elliptic, and less dramatically folded; overall growth more compact and mound-forming.

 

Thus, P. wolfgang-krahnii is distinguished by its large, heavily corrugated, triangular–ovate leaves in rosettes, with a silvery matte surface, a feature unique among this group.

 

Specifications

Plant Size: 1-3 stems in small pots, as can be seen in the pictures.

Plant Family: Piperaceae

Plant Passport: Peperomia wolfgang-krahnii B 140084 C [user input] D GB

Peperomia wolfgang-krahnii

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