Chinese Money Plant
Pilea peperomioides · Urticaceae
- Light
- Bright-indirect
- Water
- Moderate
- Humidity
- Average
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Pet-safe
- Yes
- Propagation
- Division, Stem Cuttings
Common problems: Root RotSpider MitesMealybugsFungus Gnats
Quick facts
- Light: Bright indirect · Water: When top inch or two dries
- Difficulty: Easy
- Pet-safe: Yes
Description
A compact plant with round coin-like leaves on long petioles, usually carried above a short upright stem. It is one of the easiest plants to recognize across a room and one of the easiest to share because mature plants throw pups freely.
Care
- Light: Bright indirect keeps it compact and upright.
- Water: Let the upper soil dry a bit between waterings.
- Soil & potting: Fast-draining potting mix with drainage.
- Humidity & temperature: Average indoor conditions are usually fine.
- Feeding: Light feeding during active growth.
- Repotting / propagation: Rotate regularly or it leans hard toward the window.
Propagation
Very easy by division of pups or by rooting offsets with a bit of stem attached. This is one of the simplest pass-along houseplants. See Propagation Basics.
Toxicity
Generally treated as pet-safe and widely listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs.
Common ailments, afflictions & pests
Click any item for how to identify and treat it.
- Root Rot — from staying wet too long.
- Spider Mites — possible in hot, dry rooms.
- Mealybugs — tend to hide near leaf bases.
- Fungus Gnats — a warning that the mix is staying too damp.
- Curling or cupping leaves? Often a light, watering, or temperature issue rather than a pest.
See also: Diagnose a Problem.