Peperomia obtusifolia 'Variegata' (Radiator Plant) – Variegated Houseplant (12cm Pot)

The Peperomia obtusifolia 'Variegata', also sold as the Variegated Radiator Plant, is a compact, easy-care houseplant grown for its glossy, rounded leaves edged in creamy white against mid-green centres.

It makes a neat, bushy little plant that suits a shelf, windowsill or desk, bringing colour to a bright room without taking up much space. It is naturally slow growing and occasionally produces small, slender flower spikes, though it is grown chiefly for its foliage.

Plants arrive established in a 1 litre nursery pot, ready to display as it is or pot on into a slightly larger container. A decorative outer pot can also be chosen, with the plant simply dropped inside its own grow pot. It wants bright, indirect light rather than direct sun, which can scorch the leaves, and a warm room, as it will not tolerate temperatures below about 10°C, so keep it away from cold draughts and frost.

Let the top of the compost dry out between waterings. The fleshy leaves store water, so this plant is far more likely to be killed by overwatering than by neglect, and it prefers a small pot. Feed monthly with a balanced liquid houseplant fertiliser during the growing season.

Cultural Information

• Common Name: Variegated Radiator Plant, Baby Rubber Plant
• Botanical Name: Peperomia obtusifolia 'Variegata'
• Fully Grown Height and Spread: Approx. 20-30cm tall and 20-30cm wide (compact variety)
• Growth Habit: Compact, bushy, upright to gently spreading
• Perfect For: Windowsills, shelves, desks and terrariums
• Foliage: Glossy, rounded leaves with creamy white margins and mid-green centres
• Planting Position: Bright, indirect light indoors
• Hardiness: Tender, needs a warm room and must be kept above about 10°C
• Maintenance: Low; allow the compost to dry out between waterings and avoid overwatering
• Type: Evergreen houseplant