The Chinese money plant, also known as the Pilea peperomioides, is a popular and relatively low-maintenance houseplant with distinctive, coin-shaped leaves.
Here’s how to care for your Pilea:
- Bright, indirect light is ideal. Place your plant near a window that receives bright but not direct sunlight. East or west-facing windows are often a good choice.
- Avoid direct sun , as it can scorch the leaves.
- Rotate your plant regularly to ensure even growth and prevent it from becoming lopsided.
- While it can tolerate lower light, it may become leggy and grow fewer offshoots in these conditions.
- Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out between waterings.
- Water thoroughly until you see water drain from the bottom of the pot.
- Avoid overwatering , which can lead to root rot. Drooping leaves can be a sign of both underwatering and overwatering, so check the soil moisture before watering.
- Expect to water more frequently during warmer, brighter periods and less often in lower light or during winter dormancy.
- White spots on the underside of the leaves may indicate mineral buildup from tap water; consider using filtered water or letting tap water sit for 24 hours before watering.
- Use a well-draining potting mix. A mix formulated for succulents or one containing perlite and peat moss or coir is suitable.
- Ensure your pot has drainage holes to prevent water from sitting at the bottom.
- Maintain moderate room temperature , ideally between 60-75°F (15-24°C).
- Avoid exposing the plant to temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
- Average household humidity is usually fine , but your Pilea will appreciate slightly higher humidity. Occasional misting or placing the pot on a pebble tray with water can help.
- Fertilize monthly during the growing season (spring and summer) using a balanced, all-purpose liquid fertilizer diluted to half the recommended strength.
- Do not fertilize during the fall and winter months when the plant is dormant.
- Slow or weak growth can indicate a need for fertilizer.
- Prune to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth , especially if your plant becomes leggy.
- Remove any yellow or dead leaves to keep the plant healthy and redirect energy towards new growth.
- Use clean, sharp shears or scissors for pruning.
- Avoid removing more than 20% of the leaves at one time , as this can stress the plant.
- Repot annually in the spring to provide fresh soil and room for growth.
- Choose a pot one size larger than the current one.
- While generally resistant, Pileas can be susceptible to common houseplant pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids.
- Regularly inspect your plant for signs of infestation.
- Treat pests with insecticidal soap or neem oil, following product instructions.
- Root rot can occur with overwatering, so ensure adequate drainage.
By following these tips, your Chinese money plant should thrive and bring a touch of green to your home!
How much sunlight does a coin plant need?
The Chinese Money Plant thrives in bright, indirect sunlight —it loves soaking up gentle light but doesn’t appreciate harsh, direct rays that can scorch those iconic, coin-shaped leaves. The best spot? Near a large, bright window in a kitchen, bathroom, or living room where it can bask in filtered sunlight all day long.
Why is my coin plant losing leaves?
The money tree plant is losing leaves most likely due to an adequate amounts of lighting. This house plant enjoys more light than what a lot of people think it does. It is sometimes labeled as a low light house plant but it’s actually a medium lighting plant. The money tree enjoys 5 to 7 hours of indirect lighting and.
How to take care of a coin plant indoors?
From my experience, Watering and fertilizing. Water this house plant once a week but check that the soil is dry to touch before watering. You can do this by pushing your thumb an inch into the soil.
Can a coin plant grow without sunlight?
From my experience, Chinese money plants, also known as Pilea peperomioides, prefer bright, indirect light, which can be obtained by placing your plant in an east or west-facing window. Using a LED grow light is a great choice when natural light is not possible.