A Guide to the Baby Rubber Plant: How to Look After Your Peperomia Obtusifolia

Characterised by his abundance of thick, glossy, water-filled leaves, the Peperomia Obtusifolia or Baby Rubber plant is a stunning houseplant that is sure to add an instant pop of botanical chic to your living space.

Also known as a Baby Rubber Plant, he’s got more than good looks going for him; he’s undeniably in the low-maintenance care category, he’s safe for pets and he’s a great size. He is large enough to make an impact in most spaces but not so big that he’d take over in a more compact area.

Originating from the rainforests of South America, this laidback guy will be happy and pretty undemanding in your home. For all you need to know about looking after your Baby Rubber Plant, read on. Baby Rubber Plant care tips incoming.

Plant Care for Peperomia Obtusifolia

How often should I water my Baby Rubber Plant?

This guy stores water in his leaves and so he will only need water every 1 to 2 weeks, once the top layer of soil has dried out. Make sure he is not left standing in water as this can cause root rot.

Do Peperomia Obtusifolia like to be misted?

Despite hailing from a fairly humid environment, Peperomia Obtusifolia plants tend to be happy in average household humidity and don’t require any misting.

Do Peperomia Obtusifolia like light?

Your Peperomia Obtusifolia will be happiest in moderate to bright indirect light but he will also tolerate lower light levels, like a darker office with fluorescent lighting. In his natural habitat, he grows on the ground and is shaded by taller trees, so it’s best to avoid a position in bright, direct sunlight.

Where should I position my Baby Rubber Plant?

For a happy and healthy baby rubber plant pop him in a bright spot with indirect sunlight, away from radiators and out of draughts. He will enjoy temperatures between 18 and 26 ˚C. The temperature in your home should suit him perfectly.

Should I prune my Baby Rubber Plant?

If you notice any dead leaves on your Baby Rubber Plant, trim them away to encourage fresh, new growth.

Should I feed my Baby Rubber Plant?

Baby Rubber Plants will benefit from being fed about once a month during the spring and summer when they’re in their growing period.

Shop the Peperomia Obtusifolia at The Little Botanical

As the long-time TLB fans among you will have come to expect, our Peperomia Obtusifolia arrive at your door, ready potted in a bespoke ceramic of your choice. This means they’re ready to bring all the green style to your oh-so-chic interiors. Choose this beauty in either our almond stoneware, charcoal stoneware or our textured grey pot. Whichever you choose, the shiny, green leaves will complement your chosen ceramic fabulously. If you already have the perfect pot, you can even buy this beautiful botanical naked in his growing pot, ready to pop straight into his decorative pot when he arrives at your door.

And, if you’re thinking this beauty would make a fab little gift (we couldn’t agree more!), you can send him straight to your lucky recipient. It will arrive complete with a personalised card handwritten by us.

Fun Facts About the Peperomia Obtusifolia

Despite being nicknamed the Baby Rubber Plant, the Peperomia Obtusifolia is not related to the Ficus Elastica aka the Rubber Plant.

Peperomia Obtusifolia plants are native to the rainforests of South America.

The Peperomia genus contains more than 1,000 species which can be quite different in appearance, from the shape of their leaves. These can be heart, oval or almond-shaped and their colour can be totally green, variegated or even striped.

The Peperomia genus is related to a pepper. In fact, ‘Peperomia’ translates to ‘resembles pepper’.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Peperomia Obtusifolia

Is Peperomia Obtusifolia a good indoor plant?

Yes, these gorgeous guys are a popular choice for an indoor houseplant thanks to their fairly compact size, relatively low maintenance care needs and their pet safe credentials. All in all, a top choice for your indoor jungle.

Are Peperomia Obtusifolia safe for pets?

Yes, Peperomia Obtusifolia are non-toxic and therefore safe for pets. Great news for those of you with furry friends and a fondness for indoor plants. Take a look at our full range of pet friendly plants for more pet-safe inspiration.

Why are the leaves of my Peperomia Obtusifolia dull and fading?

Dull and fading leaves on your Peperomia are a sign of too much sun. These plants grow on the forest floor in their natural habitat, meaning they are shaded by larger, taller trees. Therefore, try moving them to a position in your home that gives them dappled or indirect light and the condition of their leaves should improve.

Why are the leaves on my Baby Rubber Plant wilting?

Wilting leaves could be caused by underwatering. Check the soil and if it has dried out then lack of water is the likely cause. Give him a good drink and then be sure to water him every 1 to 2 weeks once the top layer of soil has dried out.

Why is my Peperomia Obtusifolia wilting and losing leaves?

These two symptoms together are likely to be caused by overwatering. Ensure your plant is not sitting in water and then only give him a drink once the top layer of soil has dried out; once every 1 to 2 weeks.

We hope we’ve given you plenty of useful advice and information about Peperomia Obtusifolia care. As always, we’re on hand to help if you have any questions, just get in touch at [email protected].

Until next time plant tribe.