Pilea Peperomioides
Scientific name: Pilea peperomioides
☘️ Toxicity: Safe for cats
☀️ Ideal light: Bright indirect light
💧 Watering: Weekly — water when the soil feels dry to the touch
🌿 Category: Ornamental
The Pilea Peperomioides, also known as the “Chinese Money Plant,” is one of the most beloved houseplants worldwide. Its round, glossy leaves held on elegant long stems create a modern, airy look that perfectly complements minimalist interiors. Easy to care for and completely safe for homes with cats, it’s a symbol of good energy and simplicity.
Essential care
- Light: Prefers bright, indirect light; avoid direct sun, which can scorch the leaves.
- Water: Water once a week or whenever the top of the soil feels dry.
- Substrate: Light, fertile, and well-draining mix (potting soil, perlite, and peat or coconut fiber).
- Environment: Perfect for bright, well-ventilated indoor spaces; avoid cold drafts.
- Fertilization: Once a month during spring and summer with a balanced diluted fertilizer (NPK 10-10-10).
Propagation
- Offshoots: Carefully separate baby plants that sprout around the mother plant and replant them in light, moist soil.
- Rooting: Can be done directly in soil or in a glass of water until roots develop before repotting.
Curiosity
💡 The Pilea earned its nickname “Chinese Money Plant” for symbolizing prosperity and good fortune. Its easy propagation turned it into a traditional gift of friendship and abundance.
Cat safety
- Classification: Non-toxic to cats.
- Best practice: Even though it’s safe, keep it out of reach to prevent curious bites and preserve its foliage.
Quick checklist
- ☀️ Bright indirect light
- 💧 Weekly watering
- 🪴 Light, well-draining substrate
- 🌿 Well-ventilated environment
- 🐾 Safe for cats