Artillery Plant Plant Care
Pilea microphylla (L.) Liebm.
Pilea microphylla, also known as angeloweed, artillery plant, joypowder plant, or brilhantina, is an annual plant native to Florida, Mexico, the West Indies, and tropical Central and Southern America. In the southern part of México, specifically Campeche and Mérida, the local name is frescura.
Every 7–10 days
Bright indirect light
65–75°F
50–70%
What Is the Artillery Plant?
Artillery Plant (Pilea microphylla) belongs to the Urticaceae family within the Pilea genus. Artillery Plant is native to Florida, Mexico, the West Indies, and tropical Central and Southern America. Artillery Plant is also known as Pilea microphylla, Gunpowder Plant, Militar y Plant.
Artillery Plant displays a low rosette, clumping growth habit, reaching up to 0.5 inches tall with a spread of approximately 0.5 inches. Artillery Plant produces insignificant small flowers.
Leaf size: approximately 3 inches.
How Often Should You Water a Artillery Plant?
Pilea microphylla 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 Artillery Plant Need?
Artillery Plant thrives in bright indirect light light conditions. The optimal light range is 200–400 lux. Avoid placing Artillery 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 Artillery Plant Prefer?
Pilea microphylla grows best at temperatures between 65°F and 75°F. Artillery 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 Artillery Plant?
Well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter. Good drainage is essential for Artillery Plant to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.
How Do You Repot a Artillery 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 Artillery Plant?
Artillery 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 Artillery Plant Toxic to Pets and Children?
Non-Toxic
Non-toxic to humans and pets
What Pests and Diseases Affect the Artillery Plant?
Artillery 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 Artillery Plant Need?
Artillery Plant grows outdoors in USDA Zone 13b. Native to Florida, Mexico, the West Indies, and tropical Central and Southern America, Artillery Plant is adapted to warm climates. In cooler regions, grow Artillery Plant as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 13b
Keep exploring plants
Artillery 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.
Artillery 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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