Seriously, have you ever seen a cuter plant? There’s something about its smooth, cartoonishly round leaves sitting so perkily at the end of each stem that make the pilea undeniably endearing. Also known as a Chinese money, UFO, pancake, or missionary plant, pilea is one of those plants whose charms are as numerous as its nicknames. Place it where its bright green leaves can be the star (such as the centerpiece of a minimalist tablescape), and this plant's quirky good looks will elevate your surroundings—and your mood.
How To Keep A Pilea Plant Happy
How Much Lighting Does a Pilea Need?

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How Do I know When To Water My Pilea?
A pilea plant will likely need a drink about once a week, when the top two inches of soil dry out. Keep your eyes open for drooping stems and leaves—your new friend is probably telling you it’s thirsty. To avoid a parched pilea, pick up a plant moisture indicator so you know exactly when to water.
When you do, pour water in a slow, circular pattern so your pilea gets an even soaking all the way down. Any excess will flow through the drainage holes and into the tray at the bottom of your plant—be sure to empty it afterwards so your pilea doesn’t end up sitting in water.
How Do I Use Plant Food for My Pilea?
What Is a Pilea's Ideal Environment?
Show Them You Care
(6 Recommended)
The supplies you need to charm this endearing plant.
Show Them You Care
(6 Recomended)
The supplies you need to charm this endearing plant.

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How Do I Prune and Maintain My Pilea?
If any of your pilea’s leaves become discolored, simply snip them off where they meet the stem. Otherwise, it shouldn’t need pruning unless you want to reshape it.
Give your pilea a gentle dusting with a soft cloth every now and then, so its saucer-shaped leaves can properly absorb the light. Also, rotate it a quarter-turn each time you water so it grows evenly.
One of the many delights of keeping a pilea is that when it’s content, it will produce “pups,” which can be propagated once they’re about 2 to 3 inches in size. To remove them from the mother plant, gently move the soil from around the base of the pup and follow the root down about 1 inch (you want to keep some root attached). Then use a clean, sharp knife to cut the pup away from the mother plant. Place it in a small pot with fresh soil and keep it moist until new leaves sprout, a sure sign it’s well-rooted.
How To Address Common Pilea Issues?
What to Do If You Still Have Questions
Our team of plant gurus is here for you if you need some advice about your pilea. Chat live with a Greendigs representative on our website or send an email to [email protected].
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