Pilea Cadierei
Contents
Description
Pilea Cadierei, commonly known as the Aluminum Plant, is a popular houseplant that originates from China and Vietnam. It belongs to the family Urticaceae and is prized for its attractive foliage. The plant gets its common name from the silvery markings on its dark green leaves, which resemble aluminum.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukarya |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Urticaceae |
| Genus: | Pilea |
Appearance
The Aluminum Plant has round, dark green leaves that are covered in silvery markings. The leaves are typically 2-4 inches in diameter and grow on long, thin stems. The plant can grow up to 12 inches tall and 24 inches wide, making it a great choice for hanging baskets or as a trailing plant. Pilea Cadierei also produces small, insignificant flowers that are greenish-white in color.
Care Guide
Water: Pilea Cadierei prefers to be kept moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid getting water on the leaves, as this can cause spotting.Fertilization: Fertilize Pilea Cadierei once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.Soil: The Aluminum Plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mix of potting soil, perlite, and peat moss works well.Sunlight: Pilea Cadierei prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid placing the plant in direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves.Hardiness Zones: Pilea Cadierei is a tropical plant and is not frost-tolerant. It can be grown outdoors in zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pilea Cadierei is not particularly susceptible to pests and diseases, but it can occasionally be affected by spider mites, mealybugs, or scale insects. To prevent these pests, keep the plant clean and free of dust. If you do notice pests, treat the plant with a mild insecticidal soap. The Aluminum Plant can also be affected by root rot if overwatered, so be sure to allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Habitat
Pilea Cadierei is native to China and Vietnam and grows in tropical and subtropical regions. It is commonly grown as a houseplant in temperate regions.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Pilea Cadierei?
A: Water your Aluminum Plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.Q: Can I grow Pilea Cadierei outdoors?
A: The Aluminum Plant is not frost-tolerant and can only be grown outdoors in zones 10-12.Q: What is causing brown spots on my Pilea Cadierei leaves?
A: Brown spots on the leaves of your Aluminum Plant can be caused by overwatering or by getting water on the leaves.Q: How often should I fertilize my Pilea Cadierei?
A: Fertilize your Aluminum Plant once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Pilea peperomioides (Chinese Money Plant)
- Pilea involucrata (Friendship Plant)
- Pilea nummulariifolia (Creeping Charlie)
- Pilea glauca (Grey Artillery Plant)
References
- “Pilea Cadierei.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b602.
- “Pilea Cadierei Care Guide.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/pilea-cadierei-care-1902740.
- “Aluminum Plant – Pilea Cadierei.” House Plants Encyclopedia, www.houseplantsexpert.com/aluminum-plant-pilea-cadierei.html.
