DIG THIS
Watermelon peperomia (Peperomia argyeia) is just one of over 1,000 peperomia varieties!
It earned its name from its fruit-like appearance, with striped leaves that resemble tiny watermelon rinds. The stylish, thick leaves store extra water making it a bit forgiving if you miss a watering.
Plus, it is perfect for small spaces as it will stay compact and rarely grow taller than 12 inches!
Needs Some Love
Indirect Sunlight
Water When Dry
Pet Safe
INDIRECT SUNLIGHT
AVOID HARSH, DIRECT SUN
Watermelon Peperomia loves gentle or medium light to keep its signature leaves vibrant!
Too much light = scorched leaves. Too little light = leggy growth and dull color.
FIND YOUR LIGHT
Take a moment to note which direction the windows face in your space. Then tap around the room below to see how the light hits throughout the day.
1
2
3
4
SOUTH-FACING WINDOW
⊹ Highest amount of sunlight ⊹
⊹ Consistent light all day ⊹
⊹ Perfect for "full sun" plants ⊹
EAST-FACING WINDOW
⊹ Soft morning sunlight ⊹
⊹ Avoids harsh afternoon rays ⊹
⊹ Perfect for low to indirect light plants ⊹
⚠︎ May not be bright enough for "full sun" plants
WEST-FACING WINDOW
⊹ Brightest in the afternoon ⊹
⊹ Warm, golden hour glow ⊹
⊹ Great for indirect-sun lovers ⊹
⚠︎ Can overheat sensitive plants
NORTH-FACING WINDOW
⊹ No direct sunlight ⊹
⊹ Avoids harsh afternoon rays ⊹
⊹ Perfect for shade-tolerant plants ⊹
⚠︎ Can be too dim for most houseplants. If this is your only light source, consider using a grow light for your sun-loving plants!
1
2
3
4
WATER WHEN DRY
Watermelon Peperomia is semi drought-tolerant, so it can go longer periods without watering. Be mindful - longer dry spells may result in drooping or curling leaves!
Avoid soggy soil/overwatering as it can lead to root rot. Make sure its pot has good drainage.
MODERATE HUMIDITY
Indoor humidity is typically enough, but in super dry conditions try using a humidifier every so often if you have one!
SOIL
WATERMELON PEPEROMIA DIGS A LIGHT AND AIRY MIX
When choosing a potting mix for this houseplant, look for mixes that include:
PERLITE
PERLITE
Looks like tiny white popcorn bits mixed into the soil. Improves drainage and prevents waterlogging.
ORCHID BARK
Looks like chunky, reddish-brown wood chips. Adds airflow and helps keep soil from getting too dense.
COCO COIR
Looks like fluffy, light brown fibers like shredded coconut husk (what it's made from). Helps hold moisture without making the soil too wet.
COMMON ISSUES
MUSHY STEMS/LEAF DROP
A possible sign of overwatering. Soil that has been overwatered can lead to root rot.
Remove affected leaves. Dry out soil completely (1-5 days). Adjust your watering schedule for this plant.
If problem persists and/or you suspect root rot: remove from pot, trim away dead mushy roots, and repot in fresh soil.
FADED/SCORCHED
A sign of too much direct sunlight.
Watermelon Peperomia’s leaves are delicate and should be protected from harsh sun. Relocate it to an area with more filtered or indirect light.
WILTING/CURLING
Typically a result of underwatering or overly dry conditions.
Although it is somewhat drought-tolerant, make sure to water thoroughly when the soil is dry. Avoid letting it go too long between waterings.
PESTS
Sometimes issues can be the result of a pest infestation. Watch out for these creepy crawlers:
Aphids
Fungus Gnats
Mealybugs
Spider Mites
