About

This herbaceous perennial, to around 50cm high, with creeping stolons and upright stems bearing textured, asymmetric green leaves with individual veining and long, tapered tips. Spikes or sprays of tiny white flowers are produced in summer.

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

SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4

Plant details

Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageSemi evergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants
Native toHimalaya to Tibet

Care notes

CultivationThrives in moist but well drained soil in sun or light shade. Plants are deciduous below freezing but remain evergreen if brought indoors to overwinter in a greenhouse or conservatory
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed or by division
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free