Features
A fun, funky plant with round, coin-shaped leaves that also earn it the name “pancake plant”. This Chinese native was discovered in 1946 by a Norwegian missionary. He brought the plant home to Norway and before long many people were growing and sharing money plants. The plants readily produce “babies” that can be removed to grow more plants. Grows tall with age into a more narrow, tree-like form.
Uses
Perfect for growing in a pot near a bright window indoors, or outdoors in the summer on a shaded deck, patio, or porch. Potted Pilea grown outdoors in the summer can be brought back inside when temperatures are expected to fall below 50°F (10°C). Can be grown outdoors year-round in frost-free climates, in a pot or in the ground.
My pancake plant has lighter spots on several of its leaves. Is this something I should worry about?
Hi Sandrine,
It’s possible that the spots are resulting from mineral deposits that are released with water vapor through tiny pores in the leaf called “stomata”. If your plant looks otherwise healthy, there’s no reason for concern. You can prevent this by using filtered or distilled water to water your Pilea.
My baby plants are purple is that okay?
Hi Buffy,
A purple tint to Pilea peperomioides foliage can occur for a couple of reasons. New growth is often purplish and will gradually turn green as the leaf matures – that is normal and nothing to worry about. It’s also normal for the main stem to be a darker, purplish tone throughout the life of the plant. However, if the mature leaves are turning red, that can be a problem. It indicates that your plant may be receiving too much direct sunlight or is getting too dry. In this case you’ll want to move your plant where it gets bright, but indirect light. Also monitor watering so the plant doesn’t get overly dry. If your baby plants seem otherwise healthy, it may just be their immaturity but do make sure that your plants are not placed in direct sun.