Species artillery plant
small, oval, glossy, green leaves with tiny, yellow flowers and green, glossy stalks

artillery plant

Pilea microphylla

The Artillery Plant (Pilea microphylla) is an attractive perennial native to the tropical rainforests of Mexico and Central America. This evergreen plant grows up to 8 inches tall and spreads up to 24 inches wide. Its fleshy, heart-shaped leaves are deep green with a lighter, silvery mottling. It produces dainty white flowers in early summer. Because of its habit of “shooting” its seeds from its leaves, it has earned its name. This species prefers temperatures between 65 and 85 °F, and adequate soil moisture though heavy waterlogging can cause root rot. Its hardiness makes it an excellent choice for container gardens in warm climates.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Stem Propagation,Leaf Cutting,Division,Air Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

11 - 12

Flowers:

Green Flowers

Sun:

part shade,part sun/part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Indoors:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

The artillery plant (Pilea microphylla) prefers to be kept evenly moist at all times, with occasional slight dryness between watering. As such, it should be watered every 5-7 days, or when the soil has dried out almost completely to a depth of 1-2 inches (2-5 cm). Avoid letting the soil become soggy, as it could lead to root rot. When watering, use room temperature water and water until it is flowing freely from the drainage holes. During the warmest months, you may need to water more often.

sunlight

Artillery plant (Pilea microphylla) prefers bright, indirect light. Place this plant in a spot that receives several hours of filtered sunlight each day, but be careful to avoid hot, direct afternoon sun, as it can be damaging to the plant's delicate foliage. During the spring and summer months, the plant should receive approximately 4 or 5 hours of filtered sunlight throughout the day. In the winter, the amount of sunlight for the artillery plant can be reduced to about 2 or 3 hours each day.

pruning

The artillery plant (Pilea microphylla) is known for its prolific growth rate, so it is important to prune regularly to maintain a balanced and healthy shape. Pruning should be done when new growth begins in the spring. The best way to prune the artillery plant is to cut off the top 1/3 of the plant. This will encourage bushiness and help to keep the plant from getting too tall. It also helps to remove any dead or damaged leaves. You could also prune away any rogue branches that may be causing the plant to become crowded or unbalanced. Pruning should be done every 6 to 8 weeks for best results.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

The artillery plant typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

The artillery plant typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Hardiness Map