Pilea peperomioides do best with very bright indirect light, and can even tolerate some limited direct sun. They can tolerate medium to low light levels, but their growth will become spaced out and leggy, leaves will be much smaller, and it won’t put out any offshoots. To keep these plants happy and thriving, keep the light super bright. Grow lights are really helpful with Pilea, and can help ensure even growth when place directly above the plant.

This plant likes to almost completely dry out between waterings, and does not do well with water-logged soil. Watch for the leaves drooping, which is a clear indicator it needs water. I’ve found a watering schedule of about every 10-12 days works well in typical ambient conditions. When you do water your Pilea be sure to thoroughly soak it, watering until it’s coming out of the drainage holes in the bottom of the pot.

These plants are fairly hardy when it comes to temperature, and can tolerate temperatures down to 50F. However these colder temps are not ideal, and Pileas thrive in 65-75F.

Pilea does well in average household ambient humidity (40-60%), and too much humidity can actually keep the soil too moist for this plant's liking.

Pilea likes rich, well draining soil that retains some moisture, but doesn’t stay soggy. A mix of perlite, peat, and general potting soil works well. It should be at least a 50/50 ratio of perlite (or other draining agent) to soil. Pilea tolerates frequent repotting, and is ready for a bigger pot once you see roots peeking out of the bottom of its current pot. These plants must be potted in a container with plenty of drainage to prevent water from collecting and causing issues. Since these plants like their soil to dry out, Terra cotta pots are a great option as they help pull moisture from the soil. Just be sure to adjust your watering schedule to accommodate.

Pilea peperomioides are non-toxic for people and pets!