How to Grow and Care for a Paui Plant

The Pilea peperomioides, recognized by its distinctive coin-shaped leaves, is a popular houseplant. It is commonly known by several names, including the Chinese Money Plant, UFO Plant, and Friendship Plant. Its appeal lies in its unique appearance and straightforward care. It also produces small plantlets, or “pups,” that are easy to share.

Paui Plant Care

Light

Proper lighting is a significant factor in the health of a Pilea peperomioides. This plant flourishes in bright, indirect light. An ideal placement is near an east- or west-facing window where it can receive plenty of light without being exposed to harsh, direct sun, which can scorch the leaves. Insufficient light will cause the plant to become “leggy,” meaning the stems will stretch out and the leaves will be smaller. To ensure the plant grows symmetrically, rotate it a couple of times a week.

Water

Watering for a Paui plant should follow a “drench and dry” approach. This means you should water the plant thoroughly, allowing the excess to drain out, and then wait for the top layer of soil to dry out before watering again. You can check the soil’s moisture by touching the top inch; if it feels dry, it is time to water. Overwatering is a common issue that can lead to root rot, so the soil should not remain permanently wet.

Soil

A well-draining soil mixture is necessary to prevent root rot from waterlogged soil. A high-quality potting mix that is peat-based or coir-based is a good foundation. To improve drainage, amend the soil with materials like perlite. This ensures that water can move through the soil, preventing it from becoming overly saturated. The ideal soil pH for this plant is between 6.0 and 7.0.

Temperature and Humidity

Pilea peperomioides is well-suited to typical indoor environments. It thrives in temperatures between 55°F and 85°F (13°C-30°C), but it is best to avoid letting the temperature drop below 50°F (10°C). Standard room humidity is sufficient for this plant, and you will not need to increase moisture in the air.

Fertilizer

During the growing season of spring and summer, your Paui plant will benefit from regular feeding. A balanced liquid fertilizer can be applied about once a month for healthy growth. Dilute the fertilizer to half-strength to avoid over-fertilizing, which can stress the plant. In the fall and winter months, the plant’s growth slows, and it will not require fertilizer.

Propagating Your Paui

The Pilea peperomioides is often called the “Friendship Plant” because it is very easy to propagate and share. The plant produces small offshoots, also known as “pups,” from its base and root system which can be separated to create new plants.

Identify pups that are at least two to three inches tall, as smaller ones may not be established enough to survive on their own. Gently expose where the pup connects to the parent plant. Using a clean, sharp knife, carefully cut the pup away from the main plant, trying to include some roots with the pup.

Once separated, you have two options for rooting the new cutting. You can place the pup directly into a small pot with fresh, moist soil, keeping it consistently moist for the first couple of weeks. Alternatively, you can place the cutting in a jar of water, ensuring only the stem is submerged. Roots should appear within one to two weeks, and once they are about an inch long, you can transfer the plantlet to soil.

Common Paui Problems and Solutions

One common problem is curling or domed leaves, which can be a reaction to excessive light, heat, or improper watering. If leaves are curling inward, it may be a sign of underwatering or low humidity, while downward curling can suggest overwatering. Adjusting the plant’s location and your watering routine can often resolve this.

Yellowing leaves on the lower portion of the plant can be a normal part of the aging process. However, if yellowing is widespread, it often points to overwatering and potential root rot. Drooping leaves are a straightforward sign of thirst but can also be caused by overwatering, so check the soil before adding more water.

Paui plants can attract pests such as spider mites or mealybugs, which are often found on the undersides of leaves. If you notice an infestation, you can treat the plant by wiping the leaves with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or by using an insecticidal soap. Regular inspection can help you catch and manage any pest problems early.

Repotting Your Paui

Repotting becomes necessary as your Pilea peperomioides grows, generally every two to three years. A sign that your plant needs a new pot is when you see roots emerging from the drainage holes. Other indicators include slowed growth or the plant quickly drying out, as the roots have filled the container.

When you repot, choose a new container that is one to two inches wider in diameter. Using a pot that is too large can lead to the soil staying wet for too long. Gently ease the plant out of its old pot, place a layer of fresh, well-draining potting mix in the new pot, position the plant, and fill in the sides with more soil.

After repotting, water the plant thoroughly to help the roots settle. It is best to repot during the spring or summer growing season when the plant will recover more quickly. Avoid repotting and pruning on the same day, as this can cause too much stress for the plant.