The Peperomia graveolens, often called the Ruby Glow Peperomia or Ruby Peperomia, is a distinctive and attractive succulent native to Ecuador. It's a popular choice for indoor plant enthusiasts due to its unique appearance and relatively easy care.  
 
Appearance:
Foliage: The most striking feature of this Peperomia is its fleshy, boat-shaped leaves. The top surface of the leaves is typically a glossy, translucent green, sometimes with a slightly matte texture. The underside is a vibrant deep ruby red or wine-red, creating a beautiful contrast, especially when the plant is backlit. The leaves often appear to be folded or curved along their length.  
Stems: The stems are usually also red or reddish, complementing the underside of the leaves.  
Growth Habit: Peperomia graveolens has a compact, often clumping or mounding growth habit when young, typically reaching about 20-30 cm in height and spreading outwards. As the plant matures, it can take on a more trailing appearance.  
Flowers: It produces unusual flower spikes that are long, upright stalks, often red-tipped with cream or yellowish-white. The flowers themselves are tiny and densely packed along the spike. While botanically interesting, the flowers are not typically the main ornamental feature of this plant and can sometimes have a slightly odd smell.
 
Care:
Light: Peperomia graveolens thrives in bright, indirect sunlight or partial shade. While it can tolerate some direct morning sun, intense midday sun, especially during hot summers, can scorch the leaves. Sufficient light is crucial for maintaining the vibrant red coloration on the undersides of the leaves.
Water: As a succulent, it is drought-tolerant and prefers its soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering is a significant risk and can lead to root rot. Water thoroughly when the top inch or two of the soil feels dry. Reduce watering frequency significantly during the winter months when the plant's growth slows down.  
Soil: It requires a well-draining potting mix, ideally one formulated for cacti and succulents. Adding perlite or sand to regular potting mix can improve drainage and prevent water retention.  
Temperature: It prefers warm temperatures between 18-26°C (65-75°F) and is generally suited for USDA hardiness zones 10-12 if grown outdoors. Protect it from cold drafts and sudden temperature changes.  
Humidity: While it can tolerate average indoor humidity levels, it can benefit from slightly higher humidity, especially in very dry conditions. However, it's not as demanding as some other tropical Peperomias.  
Fertilizing: Feed sparingly with a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer once every month during the active growing season (spring and summer). Avoid over-fertilizing.  
Potting: Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound, using a well-draining succulent mix in a pot only slightly larger than the previous one. Peperomias generally prefer to be slightly pot-bound.  
 
Propagation:
Peperomia graveolens can be easily propagated through stem cuttings.
Take a healthy stem cutting with a few leaves.
Allow the cut end to dry and callus for a day or two.
Plant the cutting in a moist, well-draining potting mix (a mix of peat and perlite works well).  
Create a humid environment by covering the pot with a plastic bag or placing it in a propagator until roots develop.
Keep the cutting in a warm spot with bright, indirect light.
Keep the soil lightly moist but not waterlogged.
Key Characteristics:
Unique Foliage: The contrasting green and ruby-red, somewhat folded leaves are its most striking feature.  
Compact Growth: Its smaller size makes it ideal for small spaces, desks, and terrariums.  
Easy Care: It's a relatively low-maintenance plant, especially if its watering needs are met.  
Drought-Tolerant: It can withstand periods of dryness.  
Relatively Slow-Growing: It's not a fast-spreading plant.
Non-toxic to Pets: Generally considered safe for cats and dogs.
 
Potential Issues:
Root Rot: The most common issue due to overwatering.
Leaf Drop: Can occur due to overwatering, extreme temperatures, or sudden environmental changes.  
Leggy Growth: Insufficient light can cause the stems to stretch and the colors to fade.  
Fading Leaf Color: Lack of sufficient bright, indirect light can lead to a loss of the vibrant red hues.  
 
In conclusion, Peperomia graveolens is a captivating and relatively easy-to-care-for succulent that brings a unique splash of color and texture to any indoor plant collection. Its striking ruby-red undersides and glossy green tops make it a true jewel-toned beauty.
 
 
* Picture and information intended only as a guide. Size and colours of plants will vary, not any 1 plant is exactly the same and minor variations will occur.
 
** All plants will be posted bare rooted.