How to Care for Your Chinese Money Plant

How to care for your Chinese money plant

Our tips for helping it grow healthy and strong

The Chinese money plant, scientifically known as Pilea peperomioides, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to southwestern China. At our nursery, we love it for its round, glossy leaves that resemble small coins, a symbol of prosperity and good fortune. It adapts easily to indoor environments, making it an ideal choice for anyone who wants to add a touch of greenery to their home.

The right position

The Chinese money plant prefers bright, indirect light. It is important to avoid direct exposure to sunlight, which could damage its delicate leaves. Place it near a well-lit window, shielded by a light curtain to ensure the right amount of light.

Illustrated guide: placing the Chinese money plant near a window with indirect light
The right position for your plant

When and how to water it

Water your Pilea when the soil feels dry to the touch. During summer, this may mean watering every 7 days, while every 14 days will be sufficient in winter. Check the soil moisture by inserting a finger into the substrate: if it feels dry, it is time to water.

Annual watering schedule for the Chinese money plant, with different frequencies in summer and winter
The watering schedule throughout the year

Temperature and humidity

The Chinese money plant thrives in an environment with temperatures between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius. It can tolerate temperatures of up to 30 degrees, but it is best to avoid temperatures below 10 degrees. Ideal humidity is around 40% to 60%, so a moderately humid environment is perfect.

Thermometer with temperature range and ideal humidity bar for the Chinese money plant
Comfort temperature and humidity

The right fertilizer

During spring and summer, we recommend feeding your Pilea with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 30 days. This will help the plant maintain lush, healthy foliage.

The pot and soil

Use well-draining soil made of peat and perlite to ensure good drainage. This type of substrate will help prevent waterlogging, which could cause root rot. Repot the plant when necessary, preferably in spring.

How to propagate it

The Chinese money plant is easily propagated through stem cuttings or division. Cuttings can be taken in spring, an ideal time to encourage the growth of new plants.

Our final tip

The Chinese money plant is a green companion that brings a touch of luck and beauty into your home. Remember to check the soil moisture regularly and place it in a well-lit spot to keep it happy and healthy.

— Giulia's Gardens

Verified care data

This data comes directly from the validated botanical profile used to generate the guide.

Light
medium-high · Bright indirect light
Watering
7 days in summer · 14 days in winter · Water when the soil feels dry to the touch · Check the soil moisture with your finger
Temperature
15 °C ideal minimum · 25 °C ideal maximum · 10 °C tolerated minimum · 30 °C tolerated maximum
Humidity
moderate · 40% minimum · 60% maximum
Fertilization
Balanced liquid fertilizer · spring–summer · every 30 days
Propagation
Stem cutting, Division · easy · Cuttings can be taken in spring