Pilea peperomioides, Chinese Money Plant

Pilea peperomioides (Chinese Money Plant)

The Chinese Money Plant is instantly recognizable thanks to its perfectly round, coin-shaped leaves that seem to float on slender stems. These playful leaves have earned it popular nicknames like Pancake Plant and UFO Plant, and its story is just as charming as its look. A Norwegian missionary first brought this plant from southern China to Europe in the 1940s, where it quickly became a favorite in Scandinavian homes and eventually around the world.

This trendy houseplant is grown for its unique foliage rather than its flowers and is loved for its easygoing nature. It is a low-maintenance perennial that thrives indoors, is considered pet-safe, and is known for helping improve indoor air quality. With the right conditions, your Pilea can grow quickly and may even double in size within a year.

One of the best features of the Chinese Money Plant is how easy it is to propagate. It produces little “pups” that can be removed and replanted, making it a perfect plant to share with friends which is how it earned the nickname Friendship Plant.

Care Guide

Light:
Pilea prefers bright, indirect light but adapts well to medium and even lower light settings. Rotating the plant occasionally helps keep growth balanced and prevents leaning.

Water:
Allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Mature plants prefer a full dry-down, while younger plants do better when watered once the soil is about 90% dry. Filtered or distilled water is recommended, as this plant can be sensitive to minerals and chemicals in tap water, which may cause leaf spotting.

Soil:
Use a fast-draining mix. A blend of regular potting soil and cactus soil works well, with added perlite or pumice for extra drainage if desired.

Order & Shipping Info:
-Plants ship in a grower's pot, fully rooted.
-We ship every Monday and Tuesday (excluding holidays) to avoid weekend delays.
-Our photos show what you can expect, but each plant is unique and may look slightly different upon arrival.
-Minor damage during shipping is entirely normal and should be expected, especially in extreme summer or winter temperatures. Don’t worry—damaged foliage can be trimmed away and will not affect the plant's root system or overall health.
-Hold off on watering if the soil is still moist, and wait 2-4 weeks before repotting or fertilizing. This patience will help your plant adjust smoothly without going into shock.

Important:

• Report any order issues the day they arrive by messaging us on Etsy or emailing info@magicvalleygardens.com with a photo. After 24 hours, no refunds, returns, or exchanges—no exceptions.
• We guarantee plants arrive alive but can’t promise long-term success due to plant nature.
• Refunds are case-by-case. Many plants recover with proper care, so refunds may not be needed.