Peperomia tetraphylla 'Hope'

Peperomia tetraphylla is a dwarf pepper plant found almost worldwide in tropical climates. It grows as a ground cover in the shady undergrowth of rainforests. Due to its vast distribution, numerous local forms exist, each with slightly different growth habits. The form known as 'Hope' is one of the most beautiful. It is significantly larger than a "standard" P. tetraphylla, with very thick, succulent leaves up to 4 cm in size, displaying a subtle vein pattern. It also forms very dense mats and has reddish stems. It looks best when grown as a hanging plant in a bright location, as this intensifies the colors and pattern on the leaves.

Interestingly, 'Hope' almost always forms three leaves at its nodes, instead of the four leaves per node after which it was named (tetra - four, phyllum - leaf).

It is an extremely rewarding houseplant and can also be used well as ground cover in medium-sized terrariums.