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Plant Profiles / Chinese money plant
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Chinese money plant
Pilea peperomioides · Pancake plant, UFO plant, friendship plant
Round, coin-shaped leaves on slender stems give this compact plant a playful, modern look. It readily produces babies to share with friends.
Bright indirectLight
WeeklyWater
EasyCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Bright indirect
ShadeFull sun
Bright, indirect light. Rotate weekly to keep it symmetrical.
Water
Weekly
DryWet
Water when the top 2–3 cm of soil is dry. Drooping leaves signal thirst.
Humidity
Average
LowHigh
Normal household humidity is fine.
Temperature
13–27°C (55–80°F)
CoolWarm
Keep above 10°C (50°F).
Growth
Moderate, compact
SlowFast
Grows 20–30 cm tall and wide.
Soil
Well-draining
LeanRich
Potting mix with perlite.
Fertiliser
Monthly, spring–summer
RarelyOften
Balanced liquid fertiliser at half strength.
Pet safety
Non-toxic
SafeToxic
Non-toxic to cats and dogs.
About this plant
Native to Yunnan, China, the Chinese money plant became popular after being shared from person to person around the world. It grows offsets from the base and soil, which you can pot up and gift.
Best spots
Desks, shelves, kitchen windowsills and bright side tables.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Pilea peperomioides |
| Family | Urticaceae |
| Origin | Yunnan, China |
| Plant type | Evergreen perennial |
| Mature size | 20–30 cm |
| Growth rate | Moderate |
| Foliage | Round, coin-shaped leaves |
| Flowers | Tiny, rarely noticed |
| Toxicity | Non-toxic to pets |
| Propagation | Offsets (pups) |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Active growth
Fertilise
Propagate
Repot
Active growthFertilisePropagateRepot
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Leaves curling or doming | Too much or too little light. |
| Leggy, tall stem | Low light. Move brighter. |
| Yellow, drooping leaves | Overwatering. |
| Brown spots | Sunburn or overwatering. |
| Leaning | Rotate weekly. |
Common questions
How do I propagate it?
Cut a baby off at soil level once it's 5 cm tall and pot it up or root it in water.
Why is it leaning?
It grows towards the light; rotate it weekly.
Is it pet safe?
Yes.
How often should I repot?
Every 1–2 years in spring.
