The patterned leaves on this easy-care plant will add a burst of color to your indoor garden.
Pileais a genus of tropical plants with more than 600 species.
Several of the smaller species are popular, houseplants.
Credit: Marty Baldwin
Light
Pilea grows well in bright indirect light, but it tolerates low light.
In insufficient light, the plant may become leggy.
Don’t hesitate to move your pilea around the house to see where you like it best.
Credit: Marty Baldwin
Soil and Water
The potting mix for pilea should be moderately rich and well-draining.
Potting mix that has been specifically blended for African violets works well for pilea.
Pilea needs regular watering.
Credit: Marty Baldwin
Water it when the top inch of the soil has dried out.
Temperature and Humidity
The ideal indoor temperature for pilea is between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
It grows well in humid conditions and thrives in a terrarium.
Credit: Jason Donnelly
Use a humidifier to increase humidity or place your plant on top of a pebble tray filled with water.
Fertilizer
Pilea does not need a lot of fertilizer.
An all-purpose liquid houseplant fertilizer, diluted to half the strength, every few months is usually sufficient.
Credit: Jason Donnelly
Repotting becomes necessary when the roots fill the pot.
Common diseases are powdery mildew, root rot, and leaf spot.
you might multiply your own plants and share extras with friends.
Credit: Dean Schoeppner
It’s easy topropagate them from stem cuttings.
Simply cut a young stem that has three or four leaves.
Keep the potting mix moist and the cutting will produce roots within a couple weeks.
Credit: Dean Schoeppner
Artillery Plant
Pilea microphyllahas upright arching stems with small leaves, less than 1/8 inch in diameter.
It gets its common name from the tiny flowers that “shoot” pollen.
Baby’s Tears
Pilea depressais a creeping plant that consists of numerous dainty leaves.
Because of its tiny foliage and high humidity requirements, is works well as aterrarium plant.
Moon Valley Friendship Plant
Pilea involucratahas deeply cratered or corrugated foliage.
Purplish maroon veins form the “valleys” with medium green “ridges” surrounding them.
Chinese Money Plant
Houseplant aficionados have fallen in love with Chinese money plant (Pilea peperomioides).
Its almost-round, bright green leaves are held above the soil by central stems.
This plant’s minimalist appearance and easy-growing ways make it a favorite interior decor accent for modern homes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Members of thePileagenus are not toxic to humans and pets.
Using a humidifier is a more convenient way to keep the humidity level up on a regular basis.
