Emm's Plant House

Pilea peperomoides 'Chinese Money Plant' 15cm H30cm

£38.00 GBP

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Pot Size 15cm H30cm

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Pilea peperomioides, commonly known as the Chinese Money Plant or Pancake Plant, is a unique and trendy houseplant known for its round, coin-shaped leaves. Native to the Yunnan Province in southern China, this easy-to-care-for plant has become a popular choice for plant collectors. Its compact size, fast growth, and attractive foliage make it ideal for small spaces, shelves, or windowsills. Pilea peperomioides is known for its ability to produce "pups" or offsets, which can be easily propagated, making it an excellent choice for plant enthusiasts.

Full Botanical Name: Pilea peperomioides
Common Names: Chinese Money Plant, Pancake Plant, UFO Plant
Country and/or Region of Origin: Native to the Yunnan Province, southern China
Growing Conditions in Native Habitat: Grows in shaded, humid environments in tropical climates, often found in the understory of forests, where it thrives in well-draining, organic-rich soils.

Care Guide

Care Guide:

Light: Prefers bright, indirect light. While it can tolerate some direct sunlight, too much can scorch its leaves, so it’s best placed in a spot with filtered light. Too little light can result in leggy growth and slower development.

Ideal Room: Ideal for living rooms, bedrooms, or office spaces with bright, indirect light. It works well on shelves, windowsills, or as a small tabletop plant.

Feeding: Fertilize once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer. Reduce feeding in the fall and winter months when growth slows.

Humidity: Prefers moderate humidity, typical of its native tropical environment. It will adapt to average household humidity levels, though it thrives in rooms with higher moisture, such as bathrooms or kitchens. Regular misting or using a humidity tray can improve conditions.

Ideal Temperature: Best kept between 65°F and 75°F (18°C to 24°C). Protect from temperatures below 50°F (10°C), as it is sensitive to cold drafts and frost.

Watering: Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry. Be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. Ensure the pot has good drainage and allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering in the winter when the plant's growth slows.

Pet/Child Safe: Non-toxic to pets and children, making it a safe plant for homes with animals and young children.

Soil Type: Use a well-draining, peat-based potting mix. A mix designed for tropical plants or aroids works well to ensure proper moisture retention without excess water.

Propagation: Pilea peperomioides is known for producing "pups" or offsets around the base of the plant. Simply separate the pups and pot them in fresh, well-draining soil. Alternatively, stem cuttings can also be propagated by placing them in water or moist soil.

Eventual Height and Spread: Typically grows up to 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) tall and about 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) wide. It forms a compact, bushy growth habit with round, glossy leaves that grow on long petioles.

Growth Rate: Moderate to fast-growing. Pilea peperomioides produces new leaves regularly during the growing season, and its ability to propagate easily makes it a popular plant for sharing with friends and family.

Pests and Treatment: Generally pest-resistant, but may occasionally attract mealybugs, aphids, or spider mites. Treat infestations with neem oil or insecticidal soap to keep the plant healthy.

Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger than the current one and ensure it has good drainage to promote healthy root growth.

Pruning: Prune dead or yellowing leaves regularly to maintain a tidy appearance. You can also prune back leggy stems to encourage bushier growth and to maintain the plant's shape.

Air Purification: Like many tropical plants, Pilea peperomioides helps improve indoor air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, making it a beneficial addition to your home or office.

Folklore: The Chinese Money Plant is often associated with good luck and prosperity. In many cultures, it is believed to bring wealth and good fortune to its owner, and its unique appearance adds to its symbolism of abundance.

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