Pilea
One of our favorite houseplants is the Pilea peperomioides, known as Chinese money plant, missionary plant, UFO plant, and friendship plant. The Pilea is low maintenance. It grows offsets, or “pups” near its base, and these pups can easily be shared with friends.
Most Popular Types
Chinese money plant / friendship plant – Pilea peperomioides and another friendship plant called Pilea involucrata are the most popular varieties.
Light
Bright indirect light
Temperatures
Pilea prefers temps between 55-85°F. It ccannot tolerate temperatures below 50°F.
Watering
Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil is dry. If the leaves are turning yellow, you’ve either watered too much or too infrequently. Brown spots may also appear from overwatering. White spots are not an issue – it’s just the plant removing minerals from the water it’s taken in.
This may sound complicated, but Pilea really is low maintenance!
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans or pets
Growth
Pilea typically start producing pups when they are 2-3 years old. Height typically is 12 inches when mature, however, taller plants can be grown by removing pups as soon as they appear. This allows the mother plant to focus on itself, rather than child-rearing. To keep the Pilea nice and round, rotate the pot periodically.
Origin
China. It was first taken to Scandinavia by a missionary, and it has since made its way around the globe.
Propagation
Pilea produce offsets, or pups, that can be removed when they are 2-3 inches tall. We recommend taking the entire plant from the pot to separate the roots.
Dormancy
Fall/winter dormant
pilea involucrata
The “other” friendship plant, Pilea involucrata
pilea involucrata moon valley
Pilea involucrata – Moon Valley variety
pilea cadierei aluminum plant
Aluminum plant – Pilea cadierei
pilea chinese money plant
Pilea friendship plant is easy to share.
Workshops at Growing Hobby
Workshop schedule set for after work hours and on Sunday afternoons. We now have central heating and air to make you more comfortable while you shop and attend workshops.