Chinese money plant Pilea peperomioides
ABOUT
Pilea peperomioides, also known as Chinese money plant, is a small, herbaceous perennial plant that typically grows to be around 12-18 inches tall and wide.
Its leaves are round, glossy and slightly puckered, and they are arranged in a rosette pattern, dark green in color. The leaves are usually about 2-4 inches in diameter.
The plant produces small, greenish-white flowers that grow on thin, upright stalks. These flowers are not particularly showy and are typically hidden among the leaves.
The plant has a fleshy stem that is often used for propagation and the stem has small roots that help it to cling to the soil. The plant is often grown in small pots, and it can be used as a houseplant.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Urticaceae
Synonyms
Chinese money plant, Missionary plant, UFO plant, Pancake plant
Common names
Pilea cadierei, Pilea nummulariifolia, Pilea microphylla, Pilea involucrata, Pilea microphylla var. quinquefolia
ToxicityTo humans
Pilea peperomioides is non-toxic humans and it's undemanding enough that it makes a perfect first houseplant for beginners.
To pets
Feel free to grow this plant at home without worrying that your naughty pet may eat it.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Greenish-white
Height
Up to 18 inches
Spread
Up to 18 inches
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
Southern China
Benefits
General BenefitsIt is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. It can thrive in a wide range of temperatures, and it can tolerate low light conditions;
It is relatively easy to propagate from stem cuttings, making it a great plant to share with friends and family;
Its round and glossy leaves make for a very attractive plant. And it is often used as a focal point in a room or office.
Air-purifying QualitiesChinese money plant is known for its ability to purify the air. It has been found to be efficient at removing toxins such as formaldehyde, benzene, and xylene from the air.
These chemicals are often found in household products such as cleaning supplies, paint, and furniture, and can have negative effects on human health if present in high concentrations.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiChinese money plant is thought to bring good luck and wealth, making it a great choice for feng shui.
Place the plant in a corner of your home or office that is associated with wealth and prosperity, such as the southeast corner.
You can also place the plant in an area that is associated with family, such as the east corner, to bring harmony into the home.
Additionally, its round leaves are believed to bring a sense of calm and peace, making it a great choice for promoting balance in the home.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityLIBRA
Pilea peperomioides is best for those born under the zodiac sign of Libra. Libra is a sign associated with beauty, balance and harmony, which makes it a perfect match for the calming and peaceful atmosphere that Pilea peperomioides can bring.
Plant SymbolismIn terms of symbolism, the Pilea peperomioides is often associated with wealth and prosperity, as it is commonly known as the "Chinese money plant". This is likely due to its round, coin-shaped leaves, which resemble Chinese coins. Some people also believe that this plant brings good luck and prosperity to the household.
WaterPilea peperomioides is best watered once a week, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
When watering, use lukewarm water and water the soil until it is evenly moist. It is important to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
LightPilea peperomioides thrive in bright, indirect light. Place your plant near a window that receives plenty of natural light, but not direct sunlight.
You can also supplement the natural light with a fluorescent light or a grow light, if needed.
TemperaturePilea peperomioides, also known as Chinese Money Plant, is a tropical plant that thrives best in temperatures between 60-75°F.
It can survive temperatures as low as 50°F, but if the temperature drops below that, the plant may suffer from leaf damage.
PruningPruning your Pilea peperomioides is important to help promote healthy growth and reduce the risk of disease. Pruning should be done to remove dead or damaged leaves, promote fuller growth, and help keep the plant's shape. Pruning also helps to keep the plant looking neat and tidy. To prune, use a pair of clean, sharp scissors or shears to cut back any undesired growth. Be sure to leave some healthy leaves and stems intact to ensure continued growth. Pruning helps ensure the plant remains healthy and vigorous.
CleaningAs needed
SoilPilea peperomioides prefer a well draining soil mix that is slightly acidic (pH of 5.5-6.5).
A good soil mix for this plant would be a combination of sphagnum peat moss, perlite, and compost. This mix should be amended with a slow-release fertilizer like a 10-10-10 or a 20-20-20 to ensure the plant has access to the necessary plant nutrients.
RepottingPilea peperomioides should be repotted once every 1-2 years. The best time to repot is in the spring.
When repotting, make sure to use a pot that is about two inches larger than its current pot. Use a soil mix that is slightly acidic and well-draining.
Make sure to water the plant before and after repotting. Gently remove the plant from its pot and loosen the root ball. Trim any overly long or damaged roots, and place the plant in its new pot. Fill the pot with soil, lightly press it down, and water again.
Humidity & MistingThe best humidity level for pilea peperomioide is 40-50%. This plant prefers a humid atmosphere, so it is important to maintain consistent levels of humidity. Make sure to mist the leaves regularly, or place the plant on a tray of wet pebbles.
Suitable locationsIndoor
All year round
Outdoor
Chinese money plant is typically grown as an indoor plant.
It can be grown outdoors in summer and tropical environments as long as it is protected from direct sunlight and kept in a spot that is protected from strong winds and heavy rains.
If grown outdoors, it will require regular watering and fertilization to ensure the soil stays moist and well-drained.
t is important to keep in mind that the plant is not frost hardy, it is sensitive to cold temperatures, so it should be brought indoors before the first frost.Hardiness zone
10 - 12 USDA
Life cycleChinese money plant is that of a perennial herb. It is a slow-growing plant and does not typically reach maturity until it is 2-3 years old.
During the growing season, the plant produces small, green, round leaves on thin stems. The leaves grow in a rosette pattern around the stem, giving the plant a bushy appearance. As the plant matures, it may produce small, inconspicuous flowers, though it is most commonly grown for its foliage.
In terms of propagation, Pilea peperomioides is known for its ability to produce "pups", or small plantlets, around the base of the mature plant. These can be easily separated and potted on their own to create new plants. It can also be propagated by leaf or stem cuttings.
It is relatively easy to care for, making it a popular houseplant. It prefers bright, indirect light, and well-draining, slightly moist soil. It is also known to be a low maintenance plant, which makes it ideal for beginners.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring - summer
By STEM CUTTINGS:
Take a stem cutting of the Pilea peperomioides and cut off a 4-5 inch section of the stem. Remove the lower leaves and place it in a pot filled with well-draining soil. Water the soil and place the pot in a warm and bright location. The stem cutting will take about 1-2 weeks to root and will be ready for transplanting in about 3-4 weeks.
By LEAF CUTTINGS:
Take a leaf cutting from a mature Pilea peperomioides and place it on top of damp soil. Cover the leaf with a thin layer of soil and water the soil. Place the pot in a warm and bright location. The leaf cutting will take about 1-2 weeks to root and will be ready for transplanting in about 3-4 weeks.
PestsSpider mite, Whitefly, Mealybug, Aphid
DiseasesRoot Rot, Powdery mildew, Leaf spot