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Pilea peperomioides

missionary plant

An upright, evergreen perennial to 30cm or more, with fleshy, rounded, long-stalked mid-green leaves to 10cm in length; tiny pale green flowers sometimes tinged pink

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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
5–10 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Cream Green Pink Green
Autumn Green
Winter Green
Position
  • Partial shade
Aspect

East–facing or South–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H1C
Botanical details
Family
Urticaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Bushy
Genus

Pilea can be annuals or evergreen perennials with slightly succulent stems, simple, often attractively marked or textured leaves and insignificant, pinkish flowers

Name status

Correct

Plant range
SW China

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow under glass or in a frost-free environment. Requires high humidity, branches become woody at base. See Pilea and houseplant cultivation for further advice

Propagation

Propagate by seed, by division or detatch rosettes in spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Patio and container plants
  • Low Maintenance
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

May be susceptible to scale insects

Diseases

May be susceptible to powdery mildews

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