Chinese Money Plant (Pilea Peperomioides) – Full Guide
The Chinese Money Plant, scientifically known as Pilea peperomioides, is one of the most popular indoor plants loved for its unique coin-shaped leaves and easy care routine. Often called the coin money plant, this beauty is native to the Yunnan Province of China but has now found a place in homes all around the world.
Many plant lovers also know it by its other names such as pilea plant, pilea chinese money plant, or even the artillery plant (a different but related variety). With its flat, round, coin-like foliage, it is often believed to bring good luck, prosperity, and positive energy—making it a favorite for both plant enthusiasts and Feng Shui followers.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about Chinese Money Plant care indoor, watering, light requirements, propagation, repotting, and answers to the most common Chinese Money Plant FAQs.
Appearance & Varieties of Pilea
The Chinese Money Plant scientific name is Pilea peperomioides, but the Pilea family has many other beautiful species that indoor gardeners love:
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Pilea peperomioides (Chinese Money Plant) – Famous for its coin-shaped leaves.
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Pilea involucrata (Friendship Plant) – Soft, textured leaves, often called Pilea Moon Valley.
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Pilea glauca (Silver Sparkle) – Tiny silvery leaves that trail beautifully.
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Pilea depressa – A creeping, delicate plant that looks stunning in hanging baskets.
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Pilea artillery plant (Pilea microphylla) – It is a fascinating variety that gets its name because it can release tiny bursts of pollen, almost like little “fireworks.
Each of these has its own charm, but the Chinese Money Plant remains the star because of its iconic round leaves and easy nature.
Quick Facts About the Chinese Money Plant
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Common Names: Pancake Plant, Coin Plant, UFO Plant, Chinese Money Plant, and occasionally referred to as the Friendship Plant.
Botanical Name: Pilea peperomioides
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Plant Family: Urticaceae (nettle family)
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Growth Type: Evergreen perennial houseplant
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Average Size: Usually grows up to about 12 inches in height, spreading around 8–12 inches in width with proper care.
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Light Needs: Prefers partial shade or bright, indirect sunlight.
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Preferred Soil: Loose, airy, and well-draining soil mix.
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Soil pH: Thrives in soil conditions that are mildly acidic to neutral for healthy growth.
Blooming Season: Occasionally produces small flowers during the spring months.
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Flower Color: Tiny white blossoms (though not the main attraction of the plant).
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Native Origin: Mountainous regions of southern China, particularly the Yunnan province.
Why Is It Called the Money Plant?
The plant’s flat, circular leaves look like little green coins, often seen as a symbol of prosperity and good luck. In Chinese culture, the plant is associated with prosperity, making it a popular gift plant. Today, many people even buy Chinese Money Plant online to place in their homes or offices as a symbol of abundance.
Chinese Money Plant Care Indoor
Caring for a Pilea peperomioides Chinese Money Plant is simple once you understand its needs.
1. Light Requirements
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Place in bright, indirect sunlight.
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A north or east-facing window works well.
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Excessive direct sunlight can burn the leaves, while insufficient light often leads to stretched, weak growth.
2. Watering
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Give the plant a drink only when the upper layer of soil has dried out to the touch.
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Do not overwater; soggy soil leads to root rot.
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Reduce watering in winter when growth slows.
3. Soil & Potting
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Use a well-draining potting mix.
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A mix with perlite or sand works best.
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Ensure the pot has drainage holes to avoid excess water.
4. Repotting Pilea
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Repotting pilea is usually needed every 1–2 years.
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Move to a slightly larger pot when roots outgrow the current one.
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Spring is the best season for repotting.
5. Fertilizer
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Feed the plant with a balanced liquid fertilizer about once every 3–4 weeks during its active growing period in spring and summer.
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Do not fertilize heavily in winter.
6. Temperature & Humidity
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Thrives in average household temperatures (15–24°C).
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Keep away from cold drafts and direct heaters.
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Moderate humidity is perfect, but occasional misting can help.
Propagation – Growing Baby Pileas
One of the best things about the pilea chinese money plant is how easily it produces “pups” or baby plants around its base.
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Wait until the pup has grown at least 2–3 inches tall.
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Gently separate it from the mother plant with some roots attached.
Place the baby plant into a separate pot filled with fresh, well-prepared soil.
Water lightly and place in indirect light.
This makes the Pilea not just a beautiful plant but also a plant to share with friends—hence another common name, the Friendship Plant.
Benefits of the Chinese Money Plant
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Aesthetic value – Stylish, modern, and unique foliage.
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Air-purifying qualities – Like many houseplants, it helps filter indoor air.
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Symbol of prosperity – Often associated with attracting good fortune, abundance, and positive energy.
Easy to grow – Perfect for beginners.
Common Problems & Solutions
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Yellow leaves – Usually caused by overwatering.
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Drooping leaves – May indicate underwatering or low humidity.
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Brown leaf edges – Often due to dry air or too much direct sun.
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Leggy growth – Plant not getting enough light. Rotate the pot regularly for even growth.
Buying a Chinese Money Plant Online
When purchasing a Chinese Money Plant online, always choose a trusted seller. Look for healthy green leaves, no signs of pests, and strong stems. A well-rooted young plant will adapt quickly to your home environment.
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Chinese Money Plant FAQ
1. Is Pilea a good indoor plant?
Yes, the Pilea peperomioides is an excellent indoor plant. It thrives in typical household conditions and requires minimal maintenance.
2. How do you take care of a Pilea plant?
Provide bright indirect light, water when the soil is dry at the top, use well-draining soil, and repot every 1–2 years.
3. How much sun does a Pilea need?
It prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Direct harsh sun can damage its leaves.
4. Is Pilea difficult to grow?
Not at all. It’s one of the easiest houseplants to maintain, perfect for beginners.
5. Is Pilea an air purifier?
Yes, while not the strongest air purifier, it does contribute to cleaner indoor air by filtering toxins.
Final Thoughts
The Chinese Money Plant (Pilea peperomioides) is more than just a trendy houseplant—it’s a symbol of prosperity, a natural air purifier, and a joyful companion for any plant lover. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced gardener, this low-maintenance plant will brighten up your home with its charming coin-shaped leaves.
If you’ve been considering adding a pilea plant to your collection, now is the time. Bring home this little gem, and let its green coins bring happiness and good fortune into your space.
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