Aluminum Plant Plant Care

Pilea cadierei Gagnep. & Guillaumin

Pilea cadierei is a species of flowering plant in the nettle family, Urticaceae. The species is endemic to the southern Chinese provinces of Guizhou and Yunnan, as well as Vietnam.

đŸĒ´Houseplants
Water

Every 7–10 days

Light

Bright indirect light

Temp

65–75°F

Humidity

50–70%

What Is the Aluminum Plant?

Aluminum Plant (Pilea cadierei) belongs to the Urticaceae family within the Pilea genus. Aluminum Plant is native to the southern Chinese provinces of Guizhou and Yunnan, as well as Vietnam. Aluminum Plant is also known as Moon Valley Pilea.

Aluminum Plant displays a low rosette, clumping growth habit, reaching up to 0.5 inches tall with a spread of approximately 0.5 inches. Aluminum Plant produces insignificant small flowers.

Leaf size: approximately 3 inches.

How Often Should You Water a Aluminum Plant?

Pilea cadierei requires watering every 7–10 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.

Watering Frequency

Every 7–10 days

Let soil partially dry between waterings

What Light Does the Aluminum Plant Need?

Aluminum Plant thrives in bright indirect light light conditions. The optimal light range is 200–400 lux. Avoid placing Aluminum Plant in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Light Requirement

Bright indirect light

200–400 lux

What Temperature and Humidity Does the Aluminum Plant Prefer?

Pilea cadierei grows best at temperatures between 65°F and 75°F. Aluminum Plant prefers humidity levels of 50–70%. A pebble tray or humidifier helps maintain adequate moisture around the plant.

Temperature

65–75°F

Humidity

50–70%

What Soil Mix Works Best for a Aluminum Plant?

Well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter. Good drainage is essential for Aluminum Plant to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

How Do You Repot a Aluminum Plant?

Repot every 1-2 years in spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.

How Do You Propagate a Aluminum Plant?

Aluminum Plant can be propagated through stem cuttings, division, offsets. Similar propagation techniques also apply to chinese money plant plant care, which shares the same genus.

Fertilizing

Every 4 months

During the growing season

Is the Aluminum Plant Toxic to Pets and Children?

Non-Toxic

Non-toxic to humans and pets

What Pests and Diseases Affect the Aluminum Plant?

Aluminum Plant is susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, aphids. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Aluminum Plant Need?

Aluminum Plant grows outdoors in USDA Zone 11a – 13b. Native to the southern Chinese provinces of Guizhou and Yunnan, as well as Vietnam, Aluminum Plant is adapted to warm climates. In cooler regions, grow Aluminum Plant as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.

Hardiness Zone

Zone 11a – 13b

Keep exploring plants

Aluminum Plant is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.

It belongs to the Pilea genus — compare its care with other Pilea species on PlantoScan.

Aluminum Plant thrives in bright light and direct sun — see other bright-light plants.

More Pilea Species

Other Pilea species in PlantoScan's care catalogue share similar watering, light, and soil preferences:

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