Updated: July 17, 2023

Radiator plants, also known as Peperomias, are a popular choice among houseplant enthusiasts. These versatile plants are known for their attractive foliage and ease of care. With over 1,000 species available, there is a wide variety of radiator plants to choose from. In this article, we will explore some of the different types of radiator plants and their unique characteristics.

1. Watermelon Peperomia (Peperomia argyreia)

The watermelon peperomia gets its name from the striking resemblance its leaves bear to the rind of a watermelon. The leaves have a green base color with silver stripes that resemble the patterns found on a watermelon. This plant is compact and ideal for small spaces or as part of a collection. It thrives in medium to bright indirect light and requires moderate watering.

2. Ripple Peperomia (Peperomia caperata)

The ripple peperomia is known for its crinkled, heart-shaped leaves that have a velvety texture. The leaves come in various shades of green, including dark green and deep red. This plant prefers bright indirect light and needs to be watered thoroughly but allowed to dry out between waterings. It is an excellent choice for adding texture to your indoor garden.

3. Baby Rubber Plant (Peperomia obtusifolia)

The baby rubber plant is a popular choice among beginner gardeners due to its easy care requirements. It has thick, glossy leaves that are often mistaken for rubber, hence its name. This plant can tolerate low light conditions but prefers medium to bright indirect light. It requires regular watering but should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings.

4. Red Edge Peperomia (Peperomia clusiifolia)

The red edge peperomia is named for the distinctive red edges that adorn its leaves. The leaves are thick and succulent, with a dark green color and red margins. This plant thrives in bright indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions. It requires moderate watering and should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings.

5. Silver Leaf Peperomia (Peperomia griseoargentea)

The silver leaf peperomia is a striking plant with silver-green leaves that have a textured, quilted appearance. The leaves are thick and succulent, making them drought-tolerant. This plant prefers bright indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions. It requires infrequent watering and should be allowed to dry out completely between waterings.

6. Emerald Ripple Peperomia (Peperomia caperata ’emerald ripple’)

The emerald ripple peperomia is a variation of the ripple peperomia with more pronounced ripples on its leaves. It has dark green, crinkled leaves that give it a unique appearance. This plant prefers bright indirect light and needs to be watered thoroughly but allowed to dry out between waterings. It is an excellent choice for adding texture to your indoor garden.

7. Jelly Peperomia (Peperomia ferreyrae)

The jelly peperomia, also known as the Pincushion Peperomia, has long, succulent-like leaves that are lime green in color. The leaves have a translucent appearance, giving them a jelly-like texture. This plant prefers bright indirect light and needs to be watered thoroughly but allowed to dry out between waterings. It is an excellent choice for adding a unique touch to your indoor garden.

8. Radiator Plant (Peperomia radiator)

The radiator plant, also known as the baby rubber plant, is a compact variety with thick, glossy leaves. The leaves are dark green and have a slightly quilted texture. This plant prefers bright indirect light and needs to be watered thoroughly but allowed to dry out between waterings. It is an excellent choice for small spaces or as part of a collection.

9. Variegated Peperomia (Peperomia obtusifolia ‘Variegata’)

The variegated peperomia is a stunning variety with leaves that display a mix of green and creamy white colors. The variegation patterns can differ from plant to plant, making each one unique. This plant prefers bright indirect light and needs to be watered thoroughly but allowed to dry out between waterings. It is an excellent choice for adding visual interest to your indoor garden.

10. String of Turtles (Peperomia prostrata)

The string of turtles is a trailing peperomia that gets its name from the turtle-like pattern on its leaves. The small, round leaves are green with silver markings, resembling the shell of a turtle. This plant prefers bright indirect light and needs to be watered thoroughly but allowed to dry out between waterings. It is an excellent choice for hanging baskets or as a trailing plant on shelves.

In conclusion, radiator plants offer a wide range of options for indoor gardening enthusiasts. From the watermelon peperomia with its distinctive striped leaves to the string of turtles with its trailing vines, there is a radiator plant for every preference and space. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced gardener, these plants are sure to bring beauty and charm to your indoor garden.