SafePlants

Peperomia alata - Winged Peperomia

Peperomia alata, commonly known as winged peperomia, is an herbaceous perennial plant found in various tropical and subtropical regions.

Considerations for Pets

• This plant is a non-woody herb.

Considerations for Children

• This plant is a non-woody herb.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Peperomia alata Ruiz &amp Pav.
• Common Name: Winged Peperomia
• Family: Piperaceae
• Order: Piperales
• Class: Magnoliopsida
• Synonyms:
  • Peperomia cogniauxii Urb. &#8211 yerba de guava falso
  • Peperomia cookiana C. DC. var. minutilimba Yunck.
• Related ITIS Name: Peperomia alata Ruiz &amp Pavn (TSN 18282)

Distribution and Habitat

• Peperomia alata is native to:
  • Florida (swamps)
  • West Indies
  • Central America
  • South America
• It thrives in dark, humid swamp environments.

Morphological Characteristics

• It is described as a forb/herb, meaning a non-woody plant that isn't a grass.
• Leaves are alternate, glossy dark green, round to oval (10x5cm), with a round to notched tip and tapering base.
• Leaf stalks are up to 3cm long and may be winged.
• Inflorescence can be terminal or axillary, often appearing in groups of 2-5.
• Peduncles (flower stalks) are 0.2-1.2 cm long, possibly pubescent to glabrous, winged, and green.
• Spikes (flower structures) can reach up to 15.
• The petiole (leaf stalk) is often sheathing and usually winged (in Peperomia without wings).

Quirky Facts

• The first collection of winged peperomia was apparently made in 1938 by W.S. Phillips in the "Big Cypress" area of Florida.

Further Information

• Discover Life's page provides details on the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Peperomia alata.
• The Internet Peperomia Reference (www.peperomia.net), active from 2001-2013, may contain additional information.