Pilea care: watering, light and repotting
Also called chinese money plant, pancake plant, ufo plant · Pilea peperomioides · Urticaceae family
12 d in winter
How often to water the pilea?
Allow about 7 days between waterings in spring and summer, and 12 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.
Turn the pot a quarter turn every week so it grows straight. Makes lots of babies to share.
What light does it need?
The pilea 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 year, ideally in April, into a pot only slightly bigger than the last one. As for fertiliser, from April to September, feeding every 30 days is enough; the rest of the year, let it rest.
Adult size: 8–16 in (20–40 cm).
Safe for cats and dogs, according to the ASPCA.
Common problems
Doming leaves
Cause: Light too low or too strong. What to do: Give it bright indirect light.
Falling leaves
Cause: Too much water. What to do: Let half the pot dry out between waterings.
Frequently asked questions
How often should you water the pilea?
About every 7 days in spring and summer, and every 12 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 pilea?
The pilea 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 pilea?
There's no need: indoor air suits it. Wetting its leaves for no reason can even encourage disease.
When should you repot the pilea?
Every year, 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 pilea safe?
The pilea 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 pilea 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.