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Rockweed

Pilea microphylla · Urticaceae

The gardener's calendar

The right move for September

Ideal time to plant rockweed: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.

JFMAMJJASOND Planting

ID card

Common name
Pileal plant, Money plant
Foliage
Evergreen, very fine and delicate
Adult size
8 to 12 inches tall, compact and branching habit
Growth rate
Fast
Cold hardiness
Tender, grow indoors (minimum 54°F)
Origin
Central and South America, humid tropical zones
Ideal light
Bright indirect light

Care

Watering

Keep the soil lightly moist at all times without creating water stagnation. Water regularly during the growing season (spring-summer), reducing water in winter. Standing water causes root rot: prefer perfect drainage and let the soil dry slightly between waterings.

Light

Place your Pileal plant in bright indirect light, away from direct sun rays which can burn its delicate foliage. A location near an east or west-facing window is ideal. It tolerates partial shade but its growth will slow in darkness.

Pruning

Pinch the young stems regularly to encourage a bushy and dense habit. Remove yellowed or damaged leaves as they appear. No severe pruning is needed: simply removing misshapen branches is enough to maintain a beautiful shape.

Fertilizer

Apply a balanced diluted fertilizer monthly during the growing period (April to September). Reduce applications in autumn and winter. Prefer a liquid fertilizer for indoor plants, easy to dose and quickly absorbed.

Soil

Use light and well-draining potting soil, enriched with perlite or vermiculite to prevent compaction. A potting mix specifically formulated for indoor plants works perfectly. pH should remain slightly acidic to neutral.

Diseases and pests

Watch for spider mites and mealybugs, which are common in dry environments. Regularly mist the foliage with soft water to increase ambient humidity and prevent infestations. If an attack occurs, isolate the plant and apply appropriate treatment.

Did you know?

Pileal microphylla gets the nickname 'Money plant' because of its tiny round leaves that resemble small coins. Native to the humid tropical forests of Central America, it was once popular in Victorian terrariums. Its small insignificant flowers hide a botanical ingenuity: it expels its pollen through a spectacular elastic mechanism called 'floral detonation'.

Where to buy it

Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.

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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.