Pilea
The Plant of
Timeless Stability
Pilea is a very popular houseplant thanks to its attractive coin-shaped foliage and ease of care. It is also known as the Chinese money plant, coin plant, and pancake plant. Once very popular in the 60’s and 70’s, the Pilea has made a comeback! Seen in homes across Instagram and Pinterest, it has become one of the green plant darlings of today. It warms up any minimalist design thanks to the smooth, modern-looking leaves.
Peperomia Care Line Classification
Care Information
Light
Place in bright, sunny spot with indirect light. If you notice your plant leaning towards the sun, try rotating every few days to keep growth upright.
Temperature
Average household temperatures between 65-70°F are best. Avoid drafts.
Water
Allow the top 2-3 inches of soil to dry before watering. Be careful to not overwater.
The Pilea: Deep Dive
Season
Year round indoors
Care
Pilea thrive in bright to medium indirect light. Not suited for intense, direct sun. Rotate your plant regularly to keep it symmetrical. Water every 1-2 weeks, allowing soil to dry out between waterings. Expect to water more often in brighter light and less often in lower light. It is best to take off the wrap or non-draining container and place in a sink when watering to allow it to drain from the bottom of the pot. Once the pot has drained, replace it to its original spot. The leaves of a Pilea will begin to droop when it dries out, which is a good indication that it’s time for watering.
Home to Garden
In certain conditions, Pileas can grow outside. They are tropical plants that are hardy year round between USDA zones 10 and 12. If you live in zones 1 through 9, you could set your Pilea outside for some extra sunshine as long as it will not be exposed to temperatures below 50° F. The best time to move your houseplants outside is during the summer growing season when conditions are just right. To avoid your plants from frying in the summer sun, place them in full shade when you first move them outdoors. Avoid bright sunlight to start. Plants that have adjusted to indoor light can burn if placed in outdoor direct sunlight (even if they were in bright direct light inside). With the increased light and heat, they will most likely dry out quicker than they did inside. Check the soil daily, and water thoroughly when dry.
Flower Meaning
Pilea, coin plant or the Chinese money plant symbolizes the wish for financial stability and wealth. These fengshui plants can help homeowners gain fortune, success and good health.
Fun Facts
Pilea peperomioides is an Asiatic perennial herb that is native to Yunnan Province in Southern China, and was once found at the foot of the Himalayas. Pileas are a part of the stinging-nettle family, Urticaceae, and were discovered in 1912. In 1945, a Norwegian missionary named Agnar Espegren found the plant and brought it back to his homeland to cultivate and study. Since then, the Chinese Money Plant has spread throughout the Nordic countries.
