Care of the indoor plant Pilea glauca or Artillery Plant |
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The genus Pilea, family Urticaceae, comprises 700 species of herbaceous plants native to tropical and subtropical regions of America, Asia and Africa. Some species are: Pilea glauca, Pilea involuta, Pilea cadierei, Pilea spruceana, Pilea muscosa, Pilea forgetii, Pilea reticulata, Pilea nummularifolia. Common names: Silver Sparkle Pilea, Artillery Plant. This species is native to Asia. They are branched herbaceous plants with reddish stems and a covering or hanging habit. The leaves are small, rounded and green with silver tones. They don't usually bloom indoors; the flowers are so insignificant that they are of no ornamental interest. They are used as indoor plants in hanging pots, in terrariums and in indoor mini gardens. In tropical climates they are used in light understory. The Pilea glauca needs a very bright exposure but without direct sun. They are tropical plants sensitive to sudden changes in temperature, drafts and cold below 13-14 ºC (55-57 ºF). The soil can be a commercial indoor plant substrate or a mixture of 50% garden substrate, 25% coarse sand and 25% white peat. Transplant every 1-2 years in early spring. Water regularly, with lime-free water, so that the substrate never dries completely but never floods. Water twice a week in spring and autumn, 3 times a week in summer and once a week in winter. The humidity must be medium or high; place a plate with wet stones under the pot. Spray the leaves from time to time in summer. Fertilize every 15 days with mineral fertilizer for indoor plants in spring and summer. Prune lightly in early spring to maintain a compact demeanor. The main enemies are waterlogging and aphids, mites and mealybugs if the humidity is low. They are propagated by cuttings taking advantage of the pruning cuttings. They can root even in a glass of water. |
Images of the indoor plant Pilea glauca or Artillery Plant |
 Pilea glauca  Pilea glauca  Pilea glauca |