Houseplants 101: Pilea Chinese Money Plant

Isn’t this Pilea plant just the sweetest? I’ll admit at first I thought it was peperomia, as it is similar, but no my friends, this is Pilea, also known as the Chines money plant, as the leaves look like coins, and the plant originate in China! Truth be told, the botanical name is Pilea Peperomioides so it is related to the peperomia, cousins or something!

I love learning about the origins of all my houseplants, and since the overwhelming majority come from the rain forrest, it is refreshing to find one that does not. This sweet window sill garden in terra cotta planters looks amazing in an all white minimal interior, and while terra cotta planters don’t really work in my house they look amazing all of a sudden, rustic and clean and well, the color…..perfect with golds and pinks! These little Pilea plants were quite forgiving of not being watered and with dried out soil when I arrived at our vacation rental in SF, so i’d highly recommend giving this species a try! Not to mention that propogation is via, “pups” so you can share with friends! Not to worry, no animals involved. Now, wondering if I can find some myself. Okay lets learn how to take care of this plant, shall we?

About Pilea: Pilea are distinguished by their bright green, coin-shaped leaves, they grow well in dry conditions, can adapt to low light areas, and are fast-growing, making them low-maintenance and great for beginner plant owners. Pilea will grow towards the light, so do remember to rotate your plant! A happy Pilea will sprout tiny “pups” meaning tiny plants that you can separate to grow more plants or share with friends.

Originally from the southwestern Yunnan province of China, this plant is thought to bring good fortune, money, and abundance to its owner, contributing to its popularity as a housewarming or hostess gift. Okay, then, another great reason to get to know Pilea, and possibly why I found this in a house in San Francisco, that has many Chinese influences!

Pilea Care:

LIGHT: Pilea prefers bright, indirect light. Direct sun may burn the leaves. Rotate it at least 2-3 times a week since it grows towards the sun. Pilea can adapt to lower light areas, but the leaves will turn a darker green and the plant will likely spread out more.

WATER: Water Pilea when the top 75% of the soil is dry. Water until liquid flows through the drainage hole at the bottom of the pot and discard any water that has accumulated in the saucer.

HUMIDITY: Pilea does not require humidity, but a misting every now and again can make your plant happy.

TEMPERATURE: Pilea will be happiest in normal household temperatures between 65-75 degrees. Make sure that your Pilea is not placed near any heating vents in the winter, as it may drop its leaves.

FOOD: Feed once a month during the spring and summer with a liquid fertilizer for indoor plants.

TOXICITY: Pilea are generally non-toxic for humans and pets. However, when ingested in very large quantities, they can cause a mild digestive reaction.

NOTE: If you notice white spots on your Pilea, they are most likely caused by salts and/or chemicals in your water. If you do not have a filtration system, leave the tap water in an open container overnight before watering to help remove some of the chemicals.

That is it, I hope you decide to include some Pilea in your life!