Pilea peperomioides: Care for the Chinese Money Plant

Pilea peperomioides, the "Chinese money plant," went viral for its round, coin-like leaves and how easy it is to propagate: it makes pups non-stop. It's compact, cheerful and perfect for a shelf or desk.

Light

It wants bright indirect light. Rotate the pot a quarter turn each week or it will grow lopsided toward the light. Avoid harsh direct sun, which scorches its leaves.

Watering

Water when the top inch of soil is dry. It likes regular moisture but hates waterlogging: yellow, drooping leaves usually mean overwatering. Lower leaves drop naturally with age.

Soil and pot

All-purpose soil with good drainage (add perlite) and a pot with holes.

The pups: endless free plants

When it's happy, the Pilea sends out plantlets at the base and in the soil:

1. Wait for the pup to reach a couple of inches with its own roots.
2. Separate it with a clean cut below the soil.
3. Pot it up. Great for gifting!

Common problems

• Cupped or curled leaves: too much or too little light; adjust it.
• Yellow leaves: overwatering.
• White spots on undersides: these are normal (cystoliths), not a pest.

Is it toxic?

No: the Pilea is safe for dogs and cats (it's on our pet-friendly plants list).

Give it bright light, careful watering and rotate the pot, and your Pilea will fill up with green coins and pups. Yours looking off? Try the AI diagnosis.