Pilea

Pilea peperomioides, commonly called the Chinese Money Plant, UFO Plant, or Pass-it-on Plant, is a species of flowering plant native to Yunnan Province in southern China. It is grown as a houseplant for its distinctive perfectly round leaves held on long, slender stems. It is one of the most photographed and shared houseplants in the world, partly thanks to its eye-catching appearance and partly because mature plants produce many offsets that can be potted up and given away.

Place in bright indirect light and rotate the pot regularly so all sides receive equal light. Water when the top inch of compost has dried out, typically every 7 to 10 days in summer and less frequently in winter. Use a well-draining potting mix and ensure the pot has drainage holes. Feed monthly in spring and summer with a balanced fertiliser. Wipe the leaves occasionally to keep them clean and maximise light absorption.

Pilea peperomioides propagates readily from the small offsets, called pups, that grow around the base of a mature plant. Wait until a pup has developed at least 2 to 3 leaves, then carefully remove it by cutting or gently pulling it away from the mother plant, keeping any roots attached. Pot it into fresh, moist compost in a small pot and keep it in a warm, bright spot. New growth should appear within a few weeks.

The most common causes of leaf drop in Pilea are overwatering, cold temperatures, or draughts. Check the compost is not staying wet and that the pot has adequate drainage. Keep the plant away from cold windows and draughty spots in winter. Some lower leaf drop as the plant matures is normal. If the stem is soft or discoloured at the base, root rot may have set in and the plant should be repotted into fresh, dry compost.

Pilea peperomioides naturally grows towards its light source, and without intervention the plant will develop a pronounced lean. The simple fix is to rotate the pot by a quarter turn every week or so, ensuring all sides of the plant receive equal light and the stem grows straight. This is a very common occurrence and nothing to worry about, but regular rotation is the only way to prevent it.

Pilea peperomioides is considered non-toxic to cats and dogs, making it a good choice for pet-friendly homes. As with any plant, ingestion of a large amount may cause mild stomach upset, so it is still best to discourage pets from chewing on houseplants. For more pet-safe options, browse our pet-safe plant collection.