Peperomia obtusifolia Green is also called Baby Rubber Plant, because it does look like a miniature Rubber Plant. However, it is unrelated to Hevea brasiliensis - the Ficus elastica Rubber plant family. This bushy plant has upright, thick stems and fleshy deep green leaves. Native to the rainforests of South America, Peperomia obtusifolia Green used to grow on the forest floor, making this plant a perfect choice for low-light indoor living spaces.It has a compact trailing growth habit and can grow up to 4 feet per year under the right conditions. Peperomia obtusifolia Green produces spikes of tiny white flowers. These flowers are not showy due to their small size. This plant, as well as other Peperomia species, can purify the indoor air and reduces common airborne toxins. Peperomia Obtusifolia Green prefers medium to bright, indirect light, but it also tolerates medium to low light conditions. However, too little light can make it leggy. This plant should be protected from intense, direct sunlight. It is important not to overwater this plant to prevent root rot. Check the soil twice per week and only water when the soil is dry to the touch. Drain well after each watering and water less when the plant is grown in lower light conditions. The best soil for this plant is well-draining, fertile, and loamy potting soil. This plant grows best in normal room temperatures (between 65°F-80°F). This plant does not grow well when the temperature drops below 55°F. Peperomia obtusifolia Green thrives in normal indoor humidity (50-70%), and it is recommended that you mist your plant and use a humidifier when the environment is too dry (humidity level falls below 50%). This plant should be fertilized once during the growing season (spring/summer) with diluted houseplant fertilizer.
