Pilea cadierei (Aluminum plant)

Native to Vietnam, this plant comes from a genus of over 600 species, surprisingly part of the nettle (Urticaceae) family! Pilea cadierei has decorative foliage in deep green with raised 'splashes' of silver. Perfect as a houseplant or planted in a terrarium. If the plant flowers pinch them off so that more energy goes in to leaf production. Ensure to repot when becoming rootbound as this plant has extensive root systems.

Care difficulty: Easy!

Light requirements: Bright, indirect light. Rotate the plant every week or so, to prevent it from leaning towards the light. Avoid direct sun, as this can scorch the leaves.

Watering: Water roughly once a week in summer, allowing the top of the soil to dry out a little between waterings. Decrease watering in winter to once every two weeks.

Humidity: Will be ok in average household humidity but will appreciate some humidity. Grouping humidity-loving plants together can help, as can placing pots of a wet pebble tray. You can mist the area around the foliage although this will only increase humidity temporarily. Humidifiers, bathrooms and kitchens are also beneficial to increase humidity.

Toxicity: Non-toxic to pets.

Feeding: Liquid feed occasionally during the spring and summer to support growth and flowering.

Repotting: Repot around once a year -check to see if the roots are coming out the bottom of the pot or when the plant is to large!