🌱 Peperomia verticillata – Care Sheet for Closed Terrariums
Quick ID
Common Name: Red Log Peperomia
Growth Habit: Compact, bushy, semi-succulent
Size: 10 – 20 cm tall, spreads slowly
Highlight: Green leaves with striking red undersides – adds color and texture to terrarium designs
🌡 Temperature & Humidity
Temperature: 18 °C – 28 °C ideal; avoid below 15 °C.
Humidity: Thrives at 60 % – 90 %, perfect for closed terrariums.
💡 Light Requirements
Prefers bright, indirect light.
Can handle medium light, but leaves may lose vibrancy.
Avoid direct sun inside terrarium glass – it can scorch leaves.
💧 Watering
Moist but not soggy.
Water sparingly; its semi-succulent nature means it tolerates slight drying.
In closed terrariums, monitor condensation:
Heavy condensation = too wet.
Dry walls = time to mist lightly.
🌱 Soil & Substrate
Well-draining mix is key to prevent rot:
Base layer: fine LECA or coarse sand for drainage.
Soil layer: light, airy mix such as:
50% high-quality potting soil
30% perlite or pumice
20% orchid bark or fine charcoal
🍽 Feeding
Use a diluted liquid fertilizer (¼ strength) every 6–8 weeks during active growth (spring–autumn).
Avoid overfertilizing – it prefers lean conditions in terrariums.
✂ Maintenance
Trim leggy growth to maintain a compact shape.
Remove fallen leaves promptly to avoid mold issues in the humid environment.
⚠ Common Issues
| Problem | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Yellow, mushy stems | Overwatering | Let substrate dry slightly and improve drainage |
| Leaves curling or dull | Too much light or dryness | Adjust light and humidity |
| Mold on soil surface | Poor airflow | Briefly open terrarium to air out |
🌿 Growth Notes
Naturally slow-growing but steady.
Can be propagated easily by stem cuttings in moist substrate or sphagnum moss.
Works well as a foreground or mid-ground accent plant in terrariums.