Pilea spruceana
A clump-forming, evergreen perennial to about 30cm, usually grown as an indoor plant. The leaves are oval, strongly puckered, with deeply indented veins and a scalloped edge, very dark reddish-green in colour, overlaide with broad, grey-silver stripes. The flowers are inconspicuous
Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green Red Grey | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Red Green Grey | |||
| Autumn | Green Red Grey | |||
| Winter | Green Red Grey |
Position
- Full shade
- Partial shade
Aspect
North–facing or East–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H1BBotanical 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
- S America
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in peat-free potting compost, shaded from hot sun, with high humidity. See Pilea and houseplant cultivation for further advice
Propagation
Propagate by stem tip cuttings
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Houseplants
- Conservatory and greenhouse
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.