Pilea: discovering the money plant

This very popular plant has a myriad of common names: money plant, Chinese money plant, pancake plant, UFO plant. In reality, its correct name is Pilea peperomioides (to distinguish it from other varieties of Pilea, some of which do not look much like it at all).

The nicknames given to this plant are all due to its main characteristic: its fleshy, and almost perfectly round leaves. Originally from southern China, it has now spread all over the world. In its habitat, it also manages to produce white flowers in spring, but it rarely flowers in homes. This does not discourage many from wanting a specimen in their homes, however.

Creativo

• Exposure: Pilea prefers indirect, medium or medium-high intensity light. It tends to grow by extending its branches towards the side that receives the most light, so it is advisable to rotate it regularly so that it grows symmetrically. However, if the leaves are exposed to direct and strong light, they can burn easily. The dimmer the light, the less bushy the plant will be, however.
• Climate: as for the temperature, the ideal is around 20°C, and no higher than 30°C (or falling below 10°C). As for humidity, avoid excessively dry environments and keep it away from air conditioners and fans.
• Soil: This plant likes rich, well-draining soil. So, use a well-balanced and nutrient-rich soil mixed with peat moss or coconut husk to lighten it. It should be pH balanced (a pH of 6.0 or 7.0 is ideal). To avoid water stagnation, you can also mix the soil with a little perlite or river sand - or place a layer of expanded clay at the bottom of the pot.
• Watering: In spring and summer, water the plant twice a week. In autumn and winter you can water the plant every 10-15 days. In fact, it is only necessary to water the plant when the soil has completely dried out. If you notice that the leaves are losing their vigor and are drooping, water the plant immediately.
• Fertilizer: Use fertilizer only in spring and summer, and only once a month. Use fertilizers that have a nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium ratio of 20-20-20 and administer it in the morning or evening of the day you also water the plant.

Ready to enjoy the beauty of a pilea in your home?