Aluminium plant care: watering, light and repotting
Also called aluminum plant, watermelon pilea · Pilea cadierei · Urticaceae family
9 d in winter
How often to water the aluminium plant?
Allow about 5 days between waterings in spring and summer, and 9 days in autumn and winter, when growth slows down. These rhythms apply to a room with its favourite light: in a darker room the plant drinks less; in a brighter one, it drinks more.
Pinch the stem tips regularly: otherwise it quickly gets leggy. Keep the soil slightly moist.
Misting every 5 days helps keep the air humid around its leaves, especially in winter when central heating dries the house out.
What light does it need?
The aluminium plant likes bright but filtered light: near an east- or west-facing window, or a little back from a south-facing one. Direct afternoon sun can mark the leaves.
Repotting and fertiliser
Repot every 2 years, ideally in April, into a pot only slightly bigger than the last one. As for fertiliser, from April to September, feeding every 3 weeks is enough; the rest of the year, let it rest.
Adult size: 8–12 in (20–30 cm).
Safe for cats and dogs, according to the ASPCA.
Common problems
Bare stems
Cause: Ageing. What to do: Cut it back hard in spring and root the tips.
Falling leaves
Cause: Cold or too much water. What to do: Keep it above 59 °F (15 °C) and let the surface dry out.
Frequently asked questions
How often should you water the aluminium plant?
About every 5 days in spring and summer, and every 9 days in autumn and winter, in a room with its favourite light. The darker the room, the longer you wait between waterings. Before watering, check that the top inch of soil has dried.
Where should you put the aluminium plant?
The aluminium plant likes bright but filtered light: near an east- or west-facing window, or a little back from a south-facing one. Direct afternoon sun can mark the leaves.
Should you mist the aluminium plant?
Yes, misting every 5 days does it good, especially in winter when heating dries the air. Use soft, room-temperature water.
When should you repot the aluminium plant?
Every 2 years, ideally in April, or sooner if roots come out of the drainage hole. Choose a pot only slightly bigger, 1 to 1.5 in (2 to 4 cm) wider, always with a hole in the bottom.
Cats, dogs, children: is the aluminium plant safe?
The aluminium plant is listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs by the ASPCA. A pet that eats a lot of it may still vomit, so it's best not to let it nibble.
Is it an easy plant to care for?
Yes: the aluminium plant forgives a missed watering and adapts well to the home. A good plant to start with.
These are guidelines for an indoor plant in a temperate climate. Trust the soil too: a finger pushed an inch into it will tell you whether it's thirsty.