Stop Killing Plants: 10 Indoor Beauties Anyone Can Grow

5. Peperomia (Various Species)

The tiny plant that punches way above its weight

If you’re like me and live in a smaller space—say, a cozy apartment in New York or Seattle—you know how tough it can be to fit in all the greenery you want and still have room for your shoes.

Enter: the Peperomia.

I picked up my first one on a whim from a local nursery in Chicago. It was just a little 4-inch pot, but those thick, glossy leaves caught my eye. I stuck it on my desk next to my laptop and forgot about it for a week.

Guess what? It didn’t die. In fact, it looked better after a few weeks—bushier, shinier, and quietly thriving like it owned the place.

Now I’ve got five different varieties spread around my home, and I’m obsessed. These little guys are total workhorses when it comes to houseplants for small spaces.

Why You’ll Love the Peperomia

Let’s talk practicality for a second. If you’re into home decor with plants, this is your best friend for tight corners, floating shelves, and even hanging displays.

What I love most is the variety—some have heart-shaped leaves, others look like they’re made of wax, and a few even have ripples or deep veins that catch the light. It’s like having a mini art collection that grows.

And because they stay so compact, they’re perfect for desks, bookshelves, or tucked into odd nooks that other plants would ignore. Plus, they don’t need constant pruning or babysitting. Total win.

How to Keep Your Peperomia Happy

This is one of those plants that just gets it. No drama, no fuss—just give it a bit of light and occasional water.

Here’s what I’ve learned through trial (and a little neglect):

• Light: They do well in moderate light, which means near a window but not directly in the sun. I keep mine on a side table by a north-facing window and they’re thriving.
• Watering: Let the soil dry out between drinks. I water mine every 2–3 weeks, depending on the season. Overwatering is the kiss of death here.
• Soil & Drainage: Use a well-draining mix—like a combo of potting soil and perlite. And make sure the pot has drainage holes. Trust me.
• Propagation & Repotting: This is where they really shine. Just snap off a leaf or stem cutting, stick it in soil or water, and boom—it grows! I’ve gifted baby Peperomias to friends and coworkers more than once.

Oh, and if yours starts looking leggy? Just pinch back the stems. It’ll grow fuller in no time.

Common Mistakes I Made (So You Don’t Have To)

My first mistake? Putting it in a dark corner thinking it’d survive on vibes alone. Nope. The leaves dulled out and it started leaning like it was trying to escape. Lesson learned: give it some light!

Also, I used to water it like a succulent—super rarely—and while that worked for a while, it actually prefers slightly more consistent moisture than I thought. Not soggy, just not bone dry forever.

And here’s a tip: don’t use heavy garden soil. That stuff holds too much water and can cause root rot. Stick with something airy and fast-draining.

Ready to move on to something a little more delicate but totally worth the care?

👉 Click the “Next” button below to meet the Maidenhair Fern, a lacy, romantic beauty that brings softness and elegance to any indoor space.