About

A clump-forming perennial, to around 30cm high, with coarsely toothed, deeply veined green leaves with silvery white streaks. Loose sprays of tiny greenish-white flowers are produced in late summer or early autumn.

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 shade, Full sun, Partial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-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

Care notes

CultivationThrives in moist but well drained soil in part shade, but will tolerate full shade, or full sun if the soil is consistently moist. May be evergreen in mild areas. Ideal for woodland planting or a shady border
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by softwood cuttings or by division
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free