Variegated Rubber Plant (Baby Rubber Plant)
Peperomia obtusifolia 'Variegata'
A compact, evergreen perennial with thick, fleshy, spoon-shaped leaves. The foliage features transitions of creamy white or yellow margins with marbled green centers.
- Light
- Bright, indirect light for 6-8 hours a day. Avoid direct afternoon sun which can scorch the variegated leaves.
- Water
- Water every 1-2 weeks. It is somewhat drought-tolerant due to its succulent leaves; yellowing leaves indicate over-watering, while shriveled leaves indicate under-watering.
- Growth
- Perennial; bushy, upright growth habit reaching about 6-12 inches tall and wide indoors.
Care instructions
Thrives in bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. Allow the top 50-75% of soil to dry out between waterings. Use a balanced fertilizer monthly during spring and summer.
Growing details
Sunlight
Bright, indirect light for 6-8 hours a day. Avoid direct afternoon sun which can scorch the variegated leaves.
Watering
Water every 1-2 weeks. It is somewhat drought-tolerant due to its succulent leaves; yellowing leaves indicate over-watering, while shriveled leaves indicate under-watering.
Soil
Well-draining potting mix, ideally a blend of peat moss and perlite or sand; prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0 to 7.0).
Hardiness zone
USDA zones 10-12; it is not frost-tolerant and should be kept above 55°F (13°C).
Growth habit
Perennial; bushy, upright growth habit reaching about 6-12 inches tall and wide indoors.
Bloom season
Produces non-showy, greenish-white flower spikes resembling mouse tails, though blooms are rare indoors.
Propagation
Easily propagated through leaf-cuttings or stem-cuttings in water or moist soil during the spring or summer.
Common pests & issues
Susceptible to root rot if over-watered. Pests include mealybugs and spider mites; prevent by maintaining humidity and wiping leaves.
Similar species
Ficus elastica (True Rubber Plant) has much larger, pointier leaves. Peperomia clusiifolia has more elongated leaves often tinged with red.