Description
The Aluminum Pilea gets its name because each leaf appears as if it’s been painted with aluminum. This plant is valued for its foliage, as it rarely produces flowers. It grows in a clustered fashion, reaching heights of up to 12 inches and spreading 6-12 inches wide. It thrives in bright, indirect light for at least four hours daily; direct sunlight may cause the leaves to burn. The Aluminum Pilea prefers evenly moist soil during its growing season. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry, reducing watering frequency in the winter. A soil-based potting mix that is loamy, retains slight moisture, yet drains well is ideal, housed in a pot that allows for easy drainage. Fertilizing every few weeks to once a month during the growing season can be beneficial. Pruning leggy stems promotes bushier growth, and repotting in spring is recommended if the plant’s roots become tightly packed. As a tropical plant, it requires warm and humid conditions and is only suitable for outdoor growth in USDA zones 11 and 12.
