Family: Piperaceae
Author: Fisch. & C.A.Mey.
Bibliography: Index Seminum (LE, Petropolitanus) 4: 42 (1838)
Year: 1838
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Peperomia
Vegetable: False
Observations: C. Mexico to Trop. America
Description
The Brazilian peperomia, scientifically known as Peperomia urocarpa, is a distinctive and fascinating member of the Piperaceae family. First documented by Fisch. and C.A. Mey. in 1838, this plant has carved out a unique niche for itself, thriving in various regions from Central Mexico to Tropical America.
Characterized by its lush, emerald foliage and compact growth habit, Brazilian peperomia is a favored choice among plant enthusiasts and gardeners alike. The leaves, often thick and succulent, exhibit a variety of shapes and textures which add to its decorative appeal. Its robust nature makes it an excellent addition to indoor plant collections where it can bring a touch of tropical elegance to any space.
Native to a diverse range of habitats, Peperomia urocarpa is adaptable to different growing conditions, a trait that underscores its popularity. It thrives in well-drained soil and prefers indirect sunlight, making it an ideal houseplant. Despite its tropical roots, this peperomia can tolerate a range of temperatures, provided it is shielded from extreme cold.
Botanists and horticulturists celebrate Brazilian peperomia not just for its aesthetic value, but also for its easy maintenance. The plant requires minimal watering, aligning with its natural adaptation to environments where water may be sporadic. This low-maintenance profile, combined with its striking appearance, makes it a perfect plant for both novice gardeners and seasoned plant collectors.
In summary, Peperomia urocarpa embodies the resilience and charm that make tropical plants so desirable. Its historical recognition and widespread presence from Mexico to Tropical America are testaments to its enduring appeal and versatility. Whether you’re looking to enhance your indoor garden or seeking a resilient companion plant, Brazilian peperomia stands as a timeless choice.
Common Names
Eng: brazilian peperomia
En: Brazilian peperomia
Synonyms
- Peperomia subpubistachya (Yunck.)
- Peperomia negotiosa (Trel.)
- Peperomia praecox (Trel.)
- Piper monostachion (Vell.)
- Peperomia davisii (Britton)
- Peperomia major ((Miq.) C.DC.)
- Acrocarpidium majus (Miq.)
- Peperomia hederacea (Miq.)
- Peperomia fumeana (Stehlé & Trel.)
- Peperomia condotoana (Trel. & Yunck.)
- Acrocarpidium urospermum (Schltdl.)
- Peperomia fumeana var. genuina (Trel.)
- Acrocarpidium urocarpum ((Fisch. & C.A.Mey.) Miq.)
- Peperomia pseudomajor (C.DC.)
- Peperomia urocarpoides (C.DC.)
- Peperomia osana (Trel.)
- Peperomia cataratasensis (Trel.)
- Peperomia aguacatensis var. picta (Trel.)
- Peperomia aguacatensis var. orosiana (Trel.)
- Peperomia tacanana (Trel. & Standl.)
- Peperomia donnell-smithii (C.DC.)
- Peperomia fumeana var. stehlei (Trel.)
- Peperomia aguacatensis var. urocarpoides (Trel.)
- Peperomia pilosula (C.DC.)
- Peperomia major var. hispida (C.DC.)
- Peperomia novae-hispaniae (Trel.)
- Peperomia tremuliformis (Trel.)
Distribution
- Argentina Northeast (native)
- Belize (native)
- Bolivia (native)
- Brazil North (native)
- Brazil Northeast (native)
- Brazil South (native)
- Brazil Southeast (native)
- Brazil West-Central (native)
- Colombia (native)
- Costa Rica (native)
- Cuba (native)
- Dominican Republic (native)
- Ecuador (native)
- French Guiana (native)
- Guatemala (native)
- Guyana (native)
- Haiti (native)
- Honduras (native)
- Leeward Is. (native)
- Mexico Central (native)
- Mexico Gulf (native)
- Mexico Southeast (native)
- Mexico Southwest (native)
- Nicaragua (native)
- Panamá (native)
- Paraguay (native)
- Peru (native)
- Puerto Rico (native)
- Suriname (native)
- Venezuela (native)
- Windward Is. (native)
Additional Images
Habit
Taken Jul 27, 2021 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 19, 2022 by manuseitz (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 19, 2022 by manuseitz (cc-by-sa)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Leaf
Taken Jul 27, 2021 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 19, 2022 by manuseitz (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 19, 2022 by manuseitz (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 19, 2022 by manuseitz (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 19, 2022 by manuseitz (cc-by-sa)
Other
Taken Apr 19, 2022 by manuseitz (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 19, 2022 by manuseitz (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Apr 19, 2022 by manuseitz (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 19, 2022 by manuseitz (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 19, 2022 by manuseitz (cc-by-sa)
Flower
Taken Apr 19, 2022 by manuseitz (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 19, 2022 by manuseitz (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 19, 2022 by manuseitz (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 19, 2022 by manuseitz (cc-by-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:680137-1)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3086499)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Peperomia urocarpa Fisch. & C.A.Mey.)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Forb/herb
