Peperomia clusiifolia Red Margin - Red edge radiator plant

The Peperomia clusiifolia 'Red Margin' is a Peperomia with succulent foliage, requiring nothing more than fairly good light and a well-draining substrate. It forms an upright, bushy plant with thick stems and waxy, glossy, water-filled leaves. 'Red Margin' leaves  distinguished by a thin red border around a dark green lamina.

Belonging to the Piperaceae family, the Peperomia genus includes nearly 1,700 species, often with fleshy foliage, primarily native to Central and South America, but also to Asia. Some grow naturally as far north as Florida. These tropical plants thrive in undergrowth, in dappled light and humid conditions, sometimes as epiphytes or among rocks. The Peperomia clusiifolia 'Red Margin' is an ornamental cultivar derived from the Peperomia clusiifolia species commonly known as the Red-edged Peperomia, native to Jamaica and widespread in humid tropical regions. It develops succulent, glossy, dark green, finely edged in red leaves on upright stems with a compact and robust habit. These fleshy leaves are designed to store water, helping the plant withstand occasional droughts. This variety typically grows no taller than 30 to 40 cm with a similar spread.
The name 'Peperomia' is derived from the Greek words 'peperi' (pepper) and 'homoios' (resembling). This etymology highlights the plant's connection to the Piperaceae family which also includes black pepper (Piper nigrum).

The 'Red Margin' Peperomia thrives best in bright, indirect light but tolerates moderate light levels. Place it on a shelf or among a collection of plants, alongside green or black-leaved Zamioculcas zamiifolia (such as the 'Raven' cultivar) and Scindapsus. This Peperomia grows well in standard household ambient humidity without needing misting—simply allow the substrate to dry out between waterings.