Pilea spruceana — an easy houseplant, prefers partial sun light
SPECIMEN · FROM THE LIBRARY
Pilea spruceana

Pilea Spruceana

Updated · 420 observations
Photo · (c) Amir Rasheed, all rights reserved, uploaded by Amir Rasheed COURTESY INATURALIST
ON THIS PLANT

Pilea spruceana (silver tree) is a species of evergreen plant in the family Urticaceae, which grows up to 1 foot in height, with a spread of up to 1.5 feet.

A note from PlantMom

Silver Tree is fairly resistant to disease and typically not prone to illness. However, it can be vulnerable to leaf spots if light and ventilation are inadequate and watering is excessive. Its care level is regarded as easy, since it mainly needs routine watering and little additional attention. Silver Tree is well suited to people who lack the time and energy for regular plant care.

— PlantMom
CARE GUIDE

How to keep Pilea Spruceana.

Light

The Silver Tree occurs naturally in habitats like forest understories and rocky sites, where it grows in natural shade. It prefers partial sun but can tolerate full sun or full shade, illustrating its versatile and hardy character.

Water

The Silver Tree thrives in consistently humid conditions, needing weekly watering and benefiting from regular misting. Native to moist forest floors, it exhibits moderate drought tolerance but flourishes best indoors. This environment enhances its vibrant evergreen foliage and supports its growth cycles.

Humidity

This plant will thrive in moderate humidity, which is probably the level in your home. However, misting it a few times a week can be very beneficial. Make sure the room has good ventilation.

Temperature

Silver Tree comes from tropical regions where the climate is generally warm and humid. Consequently, it is adapted to high heat and humidity. It is sensitive to sudden temperature shifts and favors a steady temperature, so avoiding indoor temperature fluctuations is important. It typically cannot tolerate cold and needs warmer conditions to grow. If the surrounding temperature falls too low, the plant may stop growing or even die.

Fertilizer

The Silver Tree needs the most fertilizer during its active growth phase, which occurs mainly in spring, summer, and early fall. Fertilizing is required to supply essential nutrients the soil may lack, promoting healthy root and stem development as well as attractive foliage, a key feature of this particular plant.

Pruning

This plant does not need pruning or trimming for good development. If you choose to cultivate this plant in a certain manner or form, you may cut its leaves yourself. The beginning of the growth season is the optimal period for pruning.

Pot & Repot

When repotting Silver Tree, pick a pot 1-2 inches (2.5–5.1 cm) larger that has good drainage. Use a well-draining potting mix. Repot in spring or fall, making sure the root ball sits slightly lower than the rim of the flower pot. Water thoroughly after repotting and place it in a warm location with indirect sunlight.

Toxicity

This gorgeous tropical vine has the bonus of being non-toxic to cats, dogs, horses, and people. It may be grown indoors without the risk of an allergic or harmful reaction.

Further reading →

The toxicity and danger assessments provided are for reference only. We do not assure their accuracy, so it's crucial not to depend on them. Seek professional advice when necessary for accurate guidance.

CHARACTERISTICS

Botanical profile.

Plant Type
Herb
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Pilea
Family
Urticaceae
Hardiness Zone
11
Mature Height
25 cm
Mature Spread
25 cm
Leaf Color
Green
Leaf Type
Evergreen
Flower Color
Green, White
Flower Size
0.20 cm to 0.25 cm
Bloom Time
All year round
Planting Time
Spring
Harvest Time
All year round
Native Area
Ecuador, Venezuela, Peru
ALSO KNOWN AS

Other names.

en Clearweed en Friendship plant en Lucifers napkin en Silver Tree
ALSO IN THE LIBRARY

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