About
Pilea spruceana is a clump-forming, evergreen perennial to about 30 cm, usually grown as an indoor plant. The oval, strongly puckered leaves have deeply indented veins and a scalloped edge, very dark reddish-green with broad, grey-silver stripes. Flowers are inconspicuous. An attractive and ornamental plant for a terrarium, conservatory or as a houseplant.
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. Popular as houseplants, conservatory plants and terrarium specimens.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull shade, Partial shade
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectNorth-facing, East-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1B
Plant details
Plant typeConservatory Greenhouse, Houseplants
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesHouseplants
Native toS America
Care notes
CultivationGrow in peat-free potting compost, shaded from hot sun, with high humidity. See Pilea and houseplant cultivation for further advice
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by stem tip cuttings
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free