About
A tender evergreen perennial usually grown as a houseplant, with trailing reddish stems bearing tiny, rounded silvery grey-green leaves.
About the genus
Pilea can be annuals or evergreen perennials with slightly succulent stems, simple, often attractively marked or textured leaves and insignificant, pinkish flowers
Growing conditions
SunlightPartial shade
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1A
Plant details
Plant typeHouseplants
HabitTrailing
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesHouseplants
Care notes
CultivationGrow in standard houseplant compost in bright, indirect light, with high humidity and protection from draughts. Water moderately during the growing season and apply a balanced liquid feed every month; water sparingly in winter. See Pilea and houseplant cultivation for further advice
PruningPinch out growing tips to promote bushiness
PropagationPropagate by division or softwood cuttings
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free