Whimsical, modern, share-worthy
With its perfectly round, bright-green leaves perched on slender petioles, the Friendship Plant adds playful geometry to shelves, desks, and plant walls. Compact and self-propagating, it’s the ultimate low-maintenance, high-reward houseplant—ideal for beginners and busy plant parents alike.
Plant Profile
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Botanical Name: Pilea peperomioides
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Common Names: Friendship Plant, Chinese Money Plant, Pass-It-On Plant
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Family: Urticaceae
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Native Range: Yunnan Province, China
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Growth Habit: Compact rosette
Care Guide
Requirement |
Details |
Light |
Bright, indirect light (avoid harsh midday sun) |
Water |
About once a week—let the top inch of soil dry |
Humidity |
Average room humidity; appreciates occasional misting |
Temperature |
55 – 85 °F (no cold drafts) |
Feeding |
Fertilize monthly at half strength in spring & summer |
Pruning |
Remove yellow or damaged leaves as needed |
Propagation |
Separate and pot up “pups” that sprout at the base |
Pests |
Generally resilient; watch for the occasional aphid |
Toxicity |
Non-toxic to humans and pets |
Fun Fact: Built-in Gift Machine
Nicknamed the “Friendship Plant” because it readily produces baby plants (pups) that you can pot up and pass along—spreading greenery and good vibes.
History Snapshot
Discovered by a Norwegian missionary in the early 1900s, Pilea peperomioides traveled from China to Europe, where it spread hand-to-hand before becoming the global houseplant icon it is today.