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Description
Pilea Depressa, also known as the Chinese Money Plant or the UFO Plant, is a popular houseplant that is native to China and Southeast Asia. It belongs to the nettle family, Urticaceae, and is known for its unique circular leaves that resemble tiny UFOs. This plant is easy to care for and is perfect for those who want to add a touch of green to their homes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Urticaceae |
| Genus | Pilea |
| Species | P. Depressa |
Appearance
Pilea Depressa has small, round leaves that are about 1-2 inches in diameter. The leaves have a bright green color and a slightly wavy texture. The plant has a mounding growth habit and can grow up to 6 inches in height and 12 inches in width. The stems of the plant are thin and delicate, and the leaves are attached to the stems by long petioles. The plant produces small, white, inconspicuous flowers that bloom in the summer.
Care Guide
Water: Pilea Depressa prefers to be kept evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.Fertilization: Feed the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: Pilea Depressa prefers bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can burn the leaves.Hardiness Zones: Pilea Depressa is hardy in USDA zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pilea Depressa is relatively pest-free, but it can be susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites. Treat infestations with a neem oil solution or insecticidal soap. The plant can also be susceptible to root rot if it is overwatered or if the soil does not drain well.
Habitat
Pilea Depressa is native to China and Southeast Asia, where it grows in damp, shady areas on forest floors. The plant is commonly found growing on rocks, logs, and other surfaces in the wild.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Pilea Depressa?
A: Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.
Q: Can Pilea Depressa tolerate direct sunlight?
A: No, Pilea Depressa prefers bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can burn the leaves.
Q: How tall can Pilea Depressa grow?
A: Pilea Depressa can grow up to 6 inches in height.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Pilea Depressa?
A: Pilea Depressa is hardy in USDA zones 10-12.
Related Plants
- Pilea Peperomioides
- Pilea Involucrata
- Pilea Cadierei
- Pilea Glauca
References
- “Pilea Depressa.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281711.
- “Pilea Depressa.” Plant Care Today, 1 June 2021, plantcaretoday.com/pilea-depressa.
- “Pilea Depressa.” The Spruce, 27 Nov. 2020, www.thespruce.com/pilea-depressa-care-tips-1902807.
