Peperomia clusiifolia ‘Jelly’, commonly known as the Jelly Peperomia or Red Edge Peperomia, is a striking tropical houseplant prized for its colourful, variegated foliage and compact, easy-care nature. A member of the Piperaceae family and native to the Caribbean and South America, this radiant variety brings a cheerful pop of colour and texture to indoor plant collections.

Each thick, succulent-like leaf is edged with blush-pink to deep rose tones, fading into creamy white and lush green centres. The fleshy leaves grow on upright red-tinted stems, forming a dense, bushy rosette that thrives in smaller pots and bright conditions. Compact and vibrant, Peperomia ‘Jelly’ adds a playful yet elegant accent to desks, shelves, and windowsills — perfect for modern, tropical, or minimalist interiors.

Charming, colourful, and forgiving, this Peperomia variety is a must-have for anyone looking to add effortless beauty and soft tropical hues to their indoor space.

Peperomia clusiifolia ‘Jelly’ – Care Guide

Light

Thrives in bright, indirect light. Its variegation and pink edging are most vivid in brighter light conditions, though it can tolerate medium light. Avoid harsh direct sun, which can scorch the leaves or fade their colours. East- or north-facing windows are ideal.

Watering

Water sparingly. Allow the top 2–3 cm of soil to dry out between waterings. The fleshy leaves store moisture, making this plant drought-tolerant. Overwatering is the most common mistake — always ensure good drainage. In winter, reduce watering further to avoid soggy soil.

Temperature and Humidity

Temperature: Prefers warmth between 18–28 °C; avoid cold drafts and temperatures below 15 °C.
Humidity: Average indoor humidity (40–60%) is sufficient. If the air is very dry, occasional misting will help keep the foliage fresh and prevent crisp edges.

Soil and Potting

Use a light, well-draining potting mix — a blend of compost, perlite, and a little sand or orchid bark works beautifully. Peperomias prefer slightly snug pots, as they have small root systems. Repot every 2–3 years to refresh the soil rather than to increase pot size.

Feeding

Feed every 6–8 weeks during spring and summer with a diluted, balanced liquid fertiliser. Over-fertilising can cause root damage, so feed lightly. Suspend feeding during autumn and winter.

Pruning and Maintenance

Pinch back leggy stems to maintain a compact, bushy shape and encourage new growth. Wipe the leaves gently with a soft, damp cloth to remove dust and enhance their natural gloss. Remove any yellow or damaged leaves to keep the plant tidy and healthy.

Growth and Maturity

A slow to moderate grower, Peperomia ‘Jelly’ typically reaches 20–30 cm in height and spread. Its dense, rounded form and colourful leaves make it an excellent choice for small spaces and plant displays.

Common Issues

• Soft, drooping leaves: Overwatering or poor drainage.

• Crispy leaf edges: Low humidity or underwatering.

• Faded colour: Insufficient light.

• Pests: Occasionally affected by mealybugs — treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap.

Background and Benefits

Native to the tropical forests of Central and South America, Peperomia clusiifolia naturally grows in the shaded understory, thriving in humid, filtered-light environments. The ‘Jelly’ cultivar was developed for its vivid pink margins and creamy variegation, making it a standout among compact indoor plants.

Like many Peperomias, it’s considered a semi-succulent, storing water in its leaves and requiring minimal care. It’s also a natural air purifier, helping to remove toxins and improve indoor air quality. Non-toxic and pet-safe, it’s a perfect choice for households with animals or children.

Quick Care Summary

• Light: Bright, indirect light; tolerates moderate light

• Water: Allow top few cm of soil to dry before watering

• Temperature: 18–28 °C; avoid below 15 °C

• Humidity: Average (40–60%); mist occasionally

• Soil: Well-draining mix – compost, perlite, bark or sand

• Feed: Every 6–8 weeks in spring/summer

• Growth: 20–30 cm tall; green, cream, and pink-edged succulent leaves

⚠️ Toxicity note: Non-toxic to humans and pets.

Styling Tip

Showcase Peperomia ‘Jelly’ in a white, pastel, or grey ceramic pot to highlight its colourful leaf margins. It’s perfect for desks, side tables, or shelves where its compact form adds a splash of colour without taking up much space. Pair with deeper-toned tropicals like Zamioculcas ‘Raven’ or Philodendron ‘Micans’ for contrast, or combine with other variegated plants for a lively, textural display. Ideal for bright rooms, kitchens, and offices, Peperomia ‘Jelly’ adds a cheerful, contemporary twist to any plant collection.