Peperomia argyreia is commonly known as the Watermelon Peperomia. Indeed because the leaves look like the skin of watermelons. Additionally, waxy green and silver striped leaves are attached to short, reddish-purple stems. Definitely the perfect addition to your indoor plant collection.
The watermelon peperomia is easy to grow and is very adaptable. Specifically, it is great for beginners. It is no wonder why it has become such a trendy plant. Definitely perfect for small spaces or offices, as it stays quite compact.
PLANT TYPE
- Perennial
- Groundcovers
SIZE
- H: 6-12″ (15-30 cm)
- W: 6-9″ (15-22 cm)
ZONES
USDA Zone 10-12
Peperomia argyreia
Pronunciation: pep-er-ROH-mee-uh ar-JER-ree-uh
Common Name(s):
- Watermelon Begonia
- Watermelon Peperomia
- Watermelon Plant
Previously known as:
Peperomia sandersii
GROWING CONDITIONS
FEATURES
Sun Exposure
Partial Sun to Partial Shade, Partial to Full Shade
Water Needs
Average Water Needs, water regularly, do not overwater
Soil Care
Well-Drained, Rich
Foliage Color
Green, Silver
Foliage Season
Deciduous
Flower Color
White/Cream
Did you know there are over 1500+ Peperomia varieties? In fact, they are actually grown more for their foliage rather than their flowers.
The Peperomia argyreia is an adorable perennial houseplant that brightens any space with its amazing silver and green striped leaves. Luckily this houseplant is not toxic to cats or dogs. This plant has no serious pest or disease problems.
Check out our post covering many Peperomia varieties here.
Place your Peperomia argyreia in bright, indirect sunlight. In fact, the peperomia plant even tolerates low light at times. However, avoid placing the shiny plant in direct sunlight as it can sunburn.
Alternatively, if the plant is not provided with enough bright light, it will tend to become long and leggy. Specifically, stretching itself towards the available light. Definitely prune it back to retain the compact appearance of the plant. Nevertheless, move the plant to a brighter location if this happens.
Water your Peperomia argyreia thoroughly. In particular, make sure that the soil is evenly moist. If the top 1-2 inches of soil is dry to the touch, then it is time to water. Next, allow water to flow through the pot’s drainage holes. Furthermore, avoid overwatering your plant. Whereas, it will bring about root rot problems.
Alternatively, the plant has almost little to no watering needs in winter. Therefore, water your peperomia plant sparingly. Finally, use a moisture meter if you are unsure.
Your Peperomia argyreia prefers high humidity and temperatures between 55° to 80° F (13°-27° C). During colder months with low humidity, set the plant on a pebble tray of water. Or, place it near a humidifier. In addition, the indoor plant is winter hardy to USDA zones 10 to 12.
Like most Peperomias, argyreia grows best in fertile, well draining soil. However, be sure to not use soil that is too compacted or heavy.
In fact, this can result in prolonged periods of water retention and root rot. Furthermore, improve the texture and fertility of your soil by adding compost or top soil when repotting.
During the growing season, Watermelon peperomias will appreciate a diluted liquid fertilizer. Specifically, every two weeks or once a month in spring and summer. Although, no feeding is needed in winter.
When your peperomia is ready for repotting, be sure to add some fresh potting soil. Additionally, this will replenish the its nutrients. Furthermore, repot your Watermelon Plant every two to three years. Or, after it doubles in size.
The Watermelon Peperomia plant is super easy to propagate. This can be done from stem, leaf cuttings or division.
The rooting medium should be very light and airy, and the ends of the cutting should be dipped in a good rooting hormone.
Watermelon Peperomia Stem Cuttings
First, choose a healthy stem with a couple of healthy leaves each at the tip. Second, use sharp clean shears to make a clean cut just below the joint. Third, leave 2-3 leaves at the tip of the stem, and remove any lower leaves. Fourth, dip the ends of the stems in a rooting hormone.
Fifth, prepare a pot with well-draining soil and plant your cutting. Finally, water the soil and press down gently around the cutting.
Watermelon Peperomia Leaf Cuttings
To propagate Watermelon peperomia using only leaf cuttings, simply choose a few healthy leaves. Next, cut them off cleanly, leaving a little bit of stem still attached. Finally, dip the bit of stem into some rooting hormone and follow the stem instructions given above.
Place the pot of stem cuttings or leaf cuttings in bright, indirect light. Preferably consistently warm temperature between 60°-70°F (15°– 21°C).
The decorative, watermelon-striped, waxy leaves and cream-colored, spiked inflorescence add interest to this plant. In fact, the funny looking spikes that pop up are actually the flowers of the Watermelon Peperomia.
They form in a cluster of tiny flowers on the end of a long stem. Flowers are white-cream in color and minute.
What to do with Watermelon Peperomia flower spikes?
Watermelon peperomia’s flower spikes will remain in place for a few months before they fall off on their own. I personally like to remove flower spikes once they have finished flowering as they zap energy from the plant.
Is your Peperomia argyreia drooping? Well, the most common cause of soft, drooping leaves on Watermelon Peperomia plants is thirst. Consistent underwatering can lead to a variety of serious issues if not resolved in time. However, occasional underwatering can also result in drooping leaves.
The Watermelon Peperomia is unique and easy to care for. It is no wonder this low maintenance plant has become quite trendy. If you’d like to read more about growing houseplants, I’ve listed some other articles that you might be interested in below.
Related Articles:
Peperomia Varieties | 75+ Types
Peperomia oblusifolia Care
Caladium Plant Care Guide & Growing Tips
Caladium Plant Varieties Over 35+ Types (with pictures)
Arrowhead Plant (Syngonium podophyllum) Care
10 Flowering Plants That Are Better Than a Bouquet
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