Pilea Mollis
Pilea mollisUSDA | Grow Zone
10-12Outdoors all year in zones 10 to 12. Anywhere colder, keep it as a houseplant. Protect it below 50°F.
- Light
- Bright, indirect
- Water
- When top 1 in is dry
- Humidity
- 40-60%
- Temperature
- 65-75°F (18-24°C)
- Difficulty
- Beginner
- Growth
- Moderate
- Mature size
- 12-18 in tall, wide
- Pets
- Non-toxic to pets
Pilea mollis, commonly known as the Chinese Money Plant, is cherished for its unique round leaves and easy care. Originating from tropical regions, it thrives indoors and is popular among plant enthusiasts for its vibrant appearance and air-purifying qualities.
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Ideal temperature
65-75°F is where it grows fastest. Below 50°F cold damage starts.
Spacing and harvest
- Mature size
- 12-18 in tall, wide
- Plant apart
- 12-18 in
- Frost
- Tender: no frost
Everything it needs
9 essentials at a glance
Watering
Pilea mollis prefers to be kept slightly moist but not soggy.
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 1-2 weeks. In the growing season (spring and summer), increase watering frequency, while in fall and winter, reduce it. Signs of over-watering include yellowing leaves and root rot, while under-watering can cause leaf droop and crispiness.
Light
Pilea mollis thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate partial shade.
Ideally, it should receive around 6-8 hours of filtered sunlight daily. Avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves. If the plant is not receiving enough light, it may become leggy and lose its vibrant color.
Soil
The ideal soil for Pilea mollis is a well-draining potting mix with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0.
A mix of peat, perlite, and orchid bark works well to ensure good drainage while retaining some moisture. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent water accumulation.
Humidity
Pilea mollis prefers humidity levels of 40-60%.
To increase humidity, consider using a pebble tray with water or a humidifier. If humidity is too low, you may notice leaf curling or browning tips. Conversely, excessive humidity can lead to mold growth or root rot.
Temperature
The ideal temperature range for Pilea mollis is between 65-75°F (18-24°C).
It is not frost-tolerant and should be kept in a warm environment, ideally in USDA hardiness zones 10-12. Avoid exposing the plant to temperatures below 50°F (10°C) as it can cause stress.
Fertilizing
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
In fall and winter, reduce feeding to once every 2-3 months. Signs of nutrient deficiency include yellowing leaves and stunted growth.
Pruning
Prune Pilea mollis in spring to encourage bushier growth and remove any dead or damaged leaves.
Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears for the best results. Deadheading is not necessary, but removing spent leaves can improve overall appearance.
Repotting
Repot Pilea mollis every 1-2 years or when it becomes root-bound.
Choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter. Signs it needs repotting include roots growing out of the drainage holes or stunted growth. To repot, gently remove the plant from its current pot, loosen the roots, and place it in fresh soil.
Propagation
Pilea mollis can be propagated through stem cuttings or offsets.
To propagate, take a healthy stem cutting with at least one leaf and place it in water or directly into moist soil. Ensure the cutting receives indirect light and keep the soil moist until roots develop. The best time for propagation is in spring or early summer.
When it's unhappy
Yellow leaves
Why it happens
Over-watering or insufficient light can cause yellowing leaves.
How to fix it
Adjust watering frequency and ensure the plant receives adequate light.
Leggy growth
Why it happens
Insufficient light leads to leggy, stretched growth.
How to fix it
Move the plant to a brighter location with indirect sunlight.
Browning leaf tips
Why it happens
Low humidity or over-fertilization can cause browning tips.
How to fix it
Increase humidity levels and reduce fertilizer application.
Root rot
Why it happens
Over-watering and poor drainage can lead to root rot.
How to fix it
Ensure proper drainage and adjust watering habits to allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
Pest infestations (e.g., spider mites, aphids)
Why it happens
Pests thrive in dry conditions and can infest the plant.
How to fix it
Regularly inspect the plant, and treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Care through the year
Spring
In spring, increase watering frequency as the plant begins to actively grow. This is also a good time to prune and propagate.
Summer
During summer, ensure the plant receives adequate light and maintain consistent moisture. Monitor for pests due to warmer temperatures.
Fall
In fall, gradually reduce watering as the plant's growth slows down. Fertilize less frequently during this time.
Winter
In winter, keep the plant in a warm location and reduce watering to prevent root rot. Ensure it receives enough light, even if it's indirect.
Toxicity & Safety
Pilea mollis is considered non-toxic to pets and children. However, ingestion of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. Always monitor pets and children around plants.
Good to know
Why are my Pilea mollis leaves turning yellow?
Yellow leaves on Pilea mollis can indicate over-watering or insufficient light. Check the soil moisture and adjust watering, and ensure the plant receives adequate indirect sunlight.
How often should I water my Pilea mollis?
Water your Pilea mollis when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 1-2 weeks. Adjust frequency based on the season and humidity levels in your home.
What type of soil is best for Pilea mollis?
Pilea mollis thrives in a well-draining potting mix with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. A mix of peat, perlite, and orchid bark is ideal for maintaining moisture without waterlogging.
How can I increase humidity for my Pilea mollis?
To increase humidity, use a pebble tray filled with water under the pot, mist the leaves regularly, or use a humidifier to maintain optimal humidity levels.
When is the best time to propagate Pilea mollis?
The best time to propagate Pilea mollis is in spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. This increases the chances of successful rooting.
How can I tell if my Pilea mollis needs repotting?
Signs that your Pilea mollis needs repotting include roots growing out of the drainage holes, stunted growth, or the plant becoming top-heavy. Repot every 1-2 years.
Grows well with
Keep apart
- Rubber Plant
- Peace Lily
- Dragon Tree
- Heartleaf Philodendron
- Zz Plant
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