Ilya

Peperomia ‘Piccolo Banda’

Radiator plant

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• Ilya likes...

  • 

    Ilya likes Light watering

    Ilya’s partial to the occasional drink, but doesn’t like to be over-watered. Water him from the bottom when the top half of his soil is dry, and allow him to drain properly.

  • 

    Ilya likes Medium light

    Ilya prefers bright, indirect light. Steer clear of direct sunshine in summer but move him into a lighter spot in winter.

  • 

    Ilya likes Humidity

    Ilya likes warm temperatures and humid conditions. Keep him away from draughts and place him in a warm spot. A bathroom would be perfect.

• Quick facts

  Quick facts

  Botanical name

  Peperomia ‘Piccolo Banda’

  Nickname

  Radiator plant

  Plant type

  Peperomia, Indoor

  Plant height (including pot)

  10-20cm

  Pet/baby safe

  Mildly toxic if ingested

  Nursery pot size

  5.5cm

• About Peperomia ‘Piccolo Banda’

  There are around 1,000 species of Peperomia, all varying in shape, size and texture. They’re related to the pepper plant, which is how this species got its name – Peperomia comes from the Greek peperi, meaning 'pepper', and 'homoios', which means 'resembling'.

  This particular Peperomia has unusual silver-grey leaves highlighted by deep burgundy coloured veins and stems. While delicate, both the stems and leaves are quite thick and store water, which is why you only need to give Ilya a drink occasionally. To avoid the risk of root rot, cut back watering quite considerably over winter when the days are shorter and the temperatures are cooler. If possible use rain or filtered water that is softer than tap water and be sure to keep it room temperature to avoid cold shock. Give it a dose of plant food once a month from April through to October. 

  In the wild, you’ll find Peperomias growing in tropical countries where they enjoy humid conditions and warm temperatures. To make your houseplant feel right at home, keep it in a toasty spot. A hot, steamy bathroom with plenty of light would be the perfect place for him.

  Did you know?

  In places like Peru, Peperomia are considered herbs and are used in traditional medicines.