pilea
Pilea mollis 'Moon Valley'
Cycle:
Herbaceous Perennial
Watering:
Frequent
Propagation:
Stem Propagation,Leaf Cutting,Division,Air Layering Propagation
Hardiness Zone:
11 - 12
Flowers:
Pink-green Flowers
Sun:
part shade,part sun/part shade
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
silver,green
Growth Rate:
Low
Maintenance:
Low
Indoors:
Yes
Care Level:
Moderate
watering
Pilea mollis 'Moon Valley' requires frequent, but light waterings. During the summer months, water this plant type every 1-2 days, allowing the top 1 inch of soil to dry in between waterings. During cooler months, waterings can be reduced to about once a week. Keeping the roots too soggy can cause them to rot, so err on the side of caution! If you aren't sure if your pilea needs water, test the soil with your finger and be sure to feel if it is dry before watering.
sunlight
Pilea mollis 'Moon Valley' plants should be placed in a spot that receives moderate, indirect sunlight. Direct afternoon sunlight should be avoided, as it can be too harsh and lead to leaf burn or scorch. It is best to have this plant receive 3-4 hours of bright, indirect sunlight each day. If additional light is needed, you can use artificial or grow lights. It is important to remember that not all indirect light is equal, so you may need to experiment to find the hours of light that best suit your particular plant.
pruning
Pileas should be pruned in the early spring or late summer, about once a year. Prune your plant to keep the shape and size you desire. Trim off any yellow, brown, or dead leaves. You can also prune off any stems that you don’t like or any that are crossing over each other, or prune out any of the dead flowers. You should prune your Pilea mollis back no more than 1/3 of the total size, so no major pruning should be done. With proper pruning, your plant should look lush and full.
FAQ
Is the Chinese Money Plant a good indoor plant?
Yes, the Chinese Money Plant (Pilea peperomioides) is a great option for an indoor plant. It is native to southwest China and is known to be an easy to care for houseplant. It's hardy and low-maintenance, requiring minimal watering and thriving in medium to low-light conditions. It grows in clumps, with round, coin-shaped flat green leaves on top of thick stalks that give it a unique look. It's also resistant to most common houseplant pests, and can be environmentally friendly by regenerating quickly and easily and reproducing on its own.
Are Chinese Money Plants suitable for outdoor gardens?
No, Chinese Money Plants are not suitable for outdoor gardens. They thrive best in bright, indirect light in normal room temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They’re sensitive to cold drafts and direct sunlight, so they should not be placed outdoors or in excessively sunny spots. Additionally, Chinese Money Plants don't like too much water, so their needs may not be met if planted in the ground outdoors; however, they can do well in a container if placed in a sheltered spot.