Peperomia Nivalis (pep-er-ROH-mee-uh, niv-VAL-us) is a climbing succulent, native to Peru. The upright plant belongs to the genus peperomia and the family: Piperaceae.
Other popular members of the Piperaceae family include:
- Peperomia dolabriformis
- Peperomia graveolens
- Peperomia caperata (emerald ripple)
- Peperomia columella
- Peperomia sandersii
- Peperomia obtusifolia (baby rubber plant)
- Don’t forget the evergreen succulent watermelon peperomia.
Peperomia Nivlias Care
Size and Growth
Peperomia nivalis is a small plant, growing up to 1” – 2” inches tall.
The upright succulent produces fleshy stems with dark green oval leaves.
These thick, fleshy leaves are often variegated and grow up to the size of 1” – 4” inches long.
The creamy gold variegation is one of the most striking features of the pointy-edged leaflets.
Flowering and Fragrance
The peperomia plant forms a white or light green panicle rosette much of the entire year.
These plants with the many-branched flower spikes are grown primarily for their ornamental foliage not the flowers.
However, these tiny flowers make an appearance on mature, healthy, well-nourished plants.
The succulent plant gives off a distinctive scent of anise.
Light and Temperature
- Peperomia nivalis prefers bright indirect light and performs considerably well in low light as well.
- Ideally, the peperomia plant needs room temperatures from 65° to 80° degrees Fahrenheit (18° – 27° C).
- Avoid direct sun as it affects the variegation of the green leaves.
- When keeping indoors, make sure to place the succulent in the north or east side.
- They easily thrive under fluorescent lighting.
- The USDA hardiness zone of Peperomia nivalis is from 10 to 11.
Watering and Feeding
Nivalis requires moderate but consistent watering throughout its growing season.
Ideally, water the plant every 7 to 10 days.
Keep the soil moist and allow the soil to dry between watering sessions.
This peperomia doesn’t need as much watering in the winter season.
Reduce watering to half during cold weather conditions.
The nivalis peperomia plant has light feeding requirements. Too much or too little fertilization is dangerous to the plant.
Do not fertilize the plant during the winter season.
Soil and Transplanting
Peperomia nivalis prefers humus-based or a peat-rich soil for maximum growth.
The plant does well planted in 2 parts peat moss or 1 part perlite or sand.
Whatever the soil type, the peperomia requires well-drained soil.
When transplanting, make sure to use a larger pot or container or else the plant becomes pot-bound and affects the development of the plant.
Water the plant thoroughly to ensure easy and smooth transplantation.
In case, there is some trouble getting the plant out of its pot safely, run a blade around the edges of the pot, and gently remove it from the pot.
Always use fresh, moist and well-drained soil.
Grooming and Maintenance
This is a low-maintenance plant and doesn’t need much attention once its root system is fully established.
However, the plant benefits from light annual pruning.
Pinch back dead or damaged stems and leaves to maximize new growth.
Make sure to eliminate these stems and leaves with sterilized pruning shears.
For additional plant care, avoid full sun or misting the plant as it will only hydrate the leaves and topsoil.
This plant type thrives on their root system, so make sure the plant receives an adequate amount of watering.
How To Propagate Peperomia Nivalis
Propagation of peperomia is easily done through stem or leaf cuttings in spring.
Place the stem and leaf in well-nourished compost or potting soil and water thoroughly.
Cover with a plastic bag to help establish the roots.
Remove the plastic bag once in a while to prevent leaf rotting.
Peperomia Nivalis Pests and Diseases
Pepromia nivalis suffers from no major pest infestations or diseases.
However, watch out for spider mites, mealybugs, and whiteflies.
They often cause the leaves to curl and decay eventually.
Improper watering or lighting may cause the new plant to lose its variegation.
More on Controlling Common Peperomia Plant Pests and Diseases
Peperomia Nivalis Uses
This easy to grow plant makes for a great indoor houseplant.
Place it in a location where it receives bright light but not full sun to ensure good health.
Owing to its tiny size, the beautiful succulent is a perfect addition to a transparent terrarium and a good option for a small hanging basket.
When it comes to beautifying an outdoor space, the plant is a perfect option for ground covers in shaded areas.