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Description
Pilea Nummulariifolia, also known as the Creeping Charlie, is a low-growing, trailing plant that belongs to the Urticaceae family. This plant is native to Central and South America and is quite popular among indoor gardeners due to its easy care and unique appearance. The plant is named after its coin-shaped leaves, which are green with a slight silver sheen. It is a fast-growing plant that can quickly spread and form a mat of foliage, making it an excellent choice for use as a ground cover.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain| Kingdom| Phylum| Class| Order| Family| Genus|| ———– | ——— | ———-| ———| ———| ———–| ———|| Eukaryota| Plantae| Spermatophyta | Magnoliophyta | Rosales | Urticaceae | Pilea|
Appearance
Pilea Nummulariifolia features small, round leaves that are approximately half an inch in diameter. The leaves are positioned opposite each other on the stem and are attached to a thin stem that grows up to 4 inches long. The leaves are bright green with a slight silver sheen, which makes them appear to shimmer in the light. The plant grows to a height of about 6 inches and can spread up to 12 inches wide. In the spring and summer months, the plant produces small, insignificant flowers that are greenish-white in color.
Care Guide
Pilea Nummulariifolia is an easy-to-care-for plant that can thrive indoors and outdoors with minimal attention. Here are some tips to help you care for your Creeping Charlie:- Water: Pilea Nummulariifolia prefers moist soil but can tolerate short periods of drought. Water the plant once a week or when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.- Fertilization: Fertilize your plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil mix containing peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite is ideal.- Sunlight: Pilea Nummulariifolia prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 10-12 and can be grown as a houseplant in colder regions.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pilea Nummulariifolia is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can still fall victim to a few common issues. Here are some pests and diseases to watch out for:- Mealybugs: These pests look like small, white cotton balls and can be found on the undersides of leaves. They can be treated with insecticidal soap.- Spider mites: These tiny pests can be identified by the fine webbing they create on the plant. They can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering and can be prevented by ensuring the plant is not sitting in waterlogged soil.
Habitat
Pilea Nummulariifolia is native to Central and South America and can be found growing in the understory of tropical forests. It prefers warm, humid conditions and can be grown as a houseplant in cooler regions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Pilea Nummulariifolia poisonous to pets?
A: Pilea Nummulariifolia is non-toxic to pets.Q: How often should I repot my Creeping Charlie?
A: Repot your Pilea Nummulariifolia once every two years or when the plant becomes root-bound.Q: Can I propagate Pilea Nummulariifolia?
A: Yes, Pilea Nummulariifolia can be propagated by stem cuttings or division.Q: How can I encourage my Creeping Charlie to grow bushier?
A: Pinch back the tips of the stems regularly to encourage branching and a bushier growth habit.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Pilea Nummulariifolia:- Pilea Peperomioides- Pilea Glauca- Pilea Involucrata- Pilea Microphylla- Pilea Cadierei
References
– “Pilea Nummulariifolia (Creeping Charlie) Care Guide.” Smart Garden Guide, 2021, www.smartgardenguide.com/pilea-nummulariifolia-care/.- “Pilea Nummulariifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden, 2021, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282707&isprofile=0&.- “Pilea Nummulariifolia.” The Spruce, 2021, www.thespruce.com/pilea-nummulariifolia-care-guide-1902779.
