Pileas are the largest genus of flowering plants in the nettle family with over 700 types. These plants are easy to grow, and come in a variety of colors, shapes, and textures. They're widely known as one of the easiest houseplants to propagate, and some are even said to bring good fortune to their caretakers.
GENERAL CARE
LIGHT
Place in medium to bright indirect light.
WATER
Water weekly or when the top 2" of soil feel dry. A well-draining potting mix is key.
FEEDING
Use diluted plant food once a month in the spring and summer. Stop feeding in the fall and winter since the plant goes dormant and will not need the extra nutrients.
TOXICITY
All varieties are non-toxic and pet-friendly.
Care instructions are usually consistent for most pileas, but we always recommend researching your specific plant to make sure you get it right the first time.
COMMON ISSUES
If you're working with the popular Chinese money plant (pilea peperomioides), you may experience overcrowding in your pot. The reason these plants are also nicknamed the "pass-it-on plant" is because they produce offshoots like crazy during the growing season. These should eventually be removed and repotted on their own to avoid overcrowding in the pot, which can deplete the nutrient source for the mother plant.
Speaking of nutrients, these plants prefer consistently well-balanced soil. If you notice strange markings or yellowing on pilea foliage, you most likely have a nutrient deficiency on your hands. This can be controlled with proper feeding and annual repotting. To prevent your pilea from leaning or growing towards one side only, be sure to rotate the pot regularly.