Peperomia Watermelon in ceramic pot
Native to northern South America, including Bolivia, Brazil, Ecuador, and Venezuela. The plant is not closely related to either watermelons or begonias. These terms relate to the shape, markings and texture of the leaves. Growing to 20 cm tall. It is a perennial with asymmetrical oval green leaves, slightly fleshy, strikingly marked with curved silver stripes, and red stems. Tiny green flower spikes appear in summer.
thrives in bright, indirect light, warm temperatures, and moderate to high humidity. Water only when the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry to avoid root rot, as these plants have semi-succulent, water-storing leaves. They are compact, non-toxic to pets, and prefer to be slightly rootbound.