Contents
Description
Pilea Melastomoides, commonly known as the “Black Artillery Plant,” is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the family Urticaceae. It is native to Central and South America and is a popular houseplant due to its unique appearance and ease of care.The plant has small, round leaves that grow in clusters, which gives it a bushy appearance. The leaves are dark green in color and have a glossy texture. The plant produces tiny white flowers that are barely visible.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Urticaceae |
| Genus | Pilea |
Appearance
Pilea Melastomoides is a small plant that typically grows up to 12 inches tall and 12 inches wide. The leaves are the most distinctive feature of the plant, as they are small, round, and grow in clusters. The leaves have a dark green color and a glossy texture.The plant produces tiny white flowers that are barely visible. The flowers grow on long stems that emerge from the base of the leaves. The stems are thin and delicate, giving the plant a delicate appearance.
Care Guide
Pilea Melastomoides is an easy-to-care-for plant that is perfect for beginners. Here are some care tips:Water: The plant prefers to be kept moist but not wet. Water it when the top inch of soil feels 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 has been enriched with perlite or vermiculite.Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.Hardiness Zones: Pilea Melastomoides is not frost-tolerant and should be kept indoors in all zones.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pilea Melastomoides is a relatively pest-free plant, but it can be susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.The plant may also be prone to root rot if overwatered or if the soil does not drain well.
Habitat
Pilea Melastomoides is native to Central and South America, where it grows in moist, shaded areas such as the forest floor. It prefers a warm, humid environment and is well-suited to indoor growing.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Pilea Melastomoides be grown outdoors?
A: While it is possible to grow the plant outdoors in a warm, humid environment, it is best suited to indoor growing.Q: How often should I water Pilea Melastomoides?
A: Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.Q: Is Pilea Melastomoides toxic to pets?
A: The plant is non-toxic to pets.Q: How often should I fertilize Pilea Melastomoides?
A: Feed the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Pilea Melastomoides:- Pilea Peperomioides- Pilea Involucrata- Pilea Cadierei- Pilea Nummulariifolia
References
– “Pilea Melastomoides Care Guide.” Epic Gardening, 2021, epicgardening.com/pilea-melastomoides/.- “Black Artillery Plant.” The Spruce, 2021, thespruce.com/black-artillery-plant-pilea-melastomoides-profile-4844053.- “Pilea Melastomoides.” Missouri Botanical Garden, 2021, missouribotanicalgarden.org/plantfinder/plantfindersearch.aspx?taxonid=291268&isprofile=0&.
