Gerald L. Klingaman
Family
Urticaceae
Botanical Name
Pilea
Plant Common Name
Pilea
General Description
Steamy rainforests worldwide (except those in Australia) are the home to the 600 to 700 species of annual and perennial plants in the genus Pilea.
Members of this genus consist of herbaceous plants that are either upright with branching stems or creeping. Cultivated species are grown for their attractive leaves of highly variable sizes, colors and textures. They are without stinging hairs, which many plants in the family exhibit. The flowers are inconspicuous and produced on airy, branched stalks held above the foliage. These are followed by petite pear-shaped fruits.
Pilea is grown as a landscape perennial in frost-free climates and an indoor plant in temperate climates. Outdoors they prefer organic-rich moist soil with good drainage. Partial shade to full shade is required—as full sun tends to scorch their leaves. Regular water and a balanced fertilizer are also welcome—particularly when plants are actively growing. Interior grown plants need indirect light and good potting soil that is evenly moist but never wet or soggy.
There are several popular ornamental species. Pilea cadierei (aluminum plant) is grown for its showy bright green leaves with rows of raised silver patches. Pilea involucrata (friendship plant) is a creeping perennial with bronze-hued quilted leaves and toothed edges. Pilea nummulariifolia (creeping Charlie) is a popular tender perennial for hanging baskets with quilted lime green leaves, and Pilea microphylla (artillery plant) has dense branches covered with a multitude of tiny rounded leaves.
Growing Conditions
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Soil pH
Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline
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Soil Drainage
Well Drained
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Soil type
Clay, Loam, Sand
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Growth Rate
Fast
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Water Requirements
Average Water
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Seasonal Interest
Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter
Ornamental Features
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Flower Interest
Insignificant
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Flower Color
White, Green
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Fruit Color
Brown
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Fragrant Flowers
No
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Fragrant Fruit
No
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Fragrant Foliage
No
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Bark or Stem Fragrant
No
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Repeat Bloomer
Yes
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Showy Fruit
No
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Edible Fruit
No
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Showy Foliage
No
Special Characteristics
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Usage
Bedding Plant, Container, Edging, Hanging Basket, Houseplant, Mixed Border, Tropical
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Sharp or Has Thorns
No
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Invasive
Sometimes
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Self-Sowing
Yes
