Peperomia prostrata

Common Names

String of Turtles, String of Turtles Plant, Turtle Vine, Turtle Plant, Chain of Turtles, Jade Necklace, Magic Marbles, Prostrate Peperomia, Trailing Peperomia

Summary

String of Turtles is a trailing evergreen semi-succulent native to Brazil’s rainforest understories, featuring tiny round leaves with turtle-shell–like veining on slender red stems that form a compact mat and cascade in containers.

It prefers bright indirect light, well-draining soil, and moderate to high humidity; water when the top inch of soil dries and avoid overwatering, with temperatures around 65–75°F; propagate via stem cuttings and repot every 2–3 years; prune rarely to maintain fullness and keep it suitable for hanging baskets or terrariums; fertilize monthly during the growing season and reduce in winter; common pests are mealybugs and spider mites.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

1-12 inches

Spread

4-12 inches

Hardiness Zones

Zones 10-12

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally partial shade.

Soil Type

Well-draining, loose, airy soil (pH 5–7), commonly a gritty loam or cactus/succulent mix with perlite, coarse sand, pumice, or orchid bark.

Soil Drainage

Well-draining soil

Soil pH

5-7, acidic to neutral

Bloom Color

Brown, Cream

Bloom Time

Spring and Summer

Foliage Color

Green

Fall Foliage Color

Green

Leaf Lifecycle

Evergreen broadleaf

Growth Rate

Slow growth; very slow when young and increases with maturity.

Seasons of Interest

Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter

Propagation Methods

Seeds and Cuttings, Division

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts none of bees, butterflies, or other pollinators