Peperomia prostrata - String of Turtles

The String of Turtles is an adorable, trailing plant perfect as a gift to yourself... or to someone you visit often whose plants you admire. This plant grows in long stems with the tiny, round, curving leaves growing directly off them. These little round leaves have veined markings on them in shades of pale, mid and dark green, almost like an ancient currency whose words have worn down to squiggles over centuries of handling. Or like the patterns of turtle shells. The String of Coins will look great creeping along your shelf or dangling from a hanging basket, and is certain to draw attention with its unusual foliage cascading over the side of its pot.

Scientific Name
Peperomia prostrata (pepper-like plant which lies down flat)

Common Name
String of Coins, String of Turtles, Trailing Peperomia

Origin
Native to Ecuador

Light
Likes bright, indirect light; will benefit from a splash of morning or evening sun, especially in autumn and winter.

Water
Thoroughly water once the soil has dried out after its last water; make sure you don't leave the plant itself wet as this can cause it to rot.

Humidity
Thrives in higher humidity, so will appreciate a humidity tray or more frequent misting.

Soil
Use a dense, well-draining mix; added coir, grit or bark will help it not get too waterlogged. A mix designed for syngoniums will do well here. Repot every three years in spring as the plant grows.

Food
Feed every four waters in the growing season, reduce to every six or seven in autumn and winter. Pre-water the soil before applying 'ready to use' products to protect the roots.

Temperature
Ideal temperature is 18-26°C; make sure it does not get colder than 12°C in winter.

Pet-safe
Yes, but too much nibbling won't be good for pets, small humans or the plant!

Sprouts Top Tips
If your plant is in a darker spot, poke the soil gently with a chopstick or similar to provide ventilation and mimic the actions of earthworms and other critters- this will reduce the risk of root rot!