Distinctive Appearance and Easy Growth - Friendship Plant
With its round, bright green leaves attached to thin, upright petioles, the Friendship Plant (Pilea Peperomioides) boasts a unique and recognizable look. Its rosette-like form and compact growth make it an ideal houseplant for tabletops or shelves, where its whimsical, circular foliage can stand out.
Friendship Plant - Low Maintenance, High Reward
One of the key reasons this plant has become a household favorite is its ease of care. The Friendship Plant can tolerate a variety of conditions, including average room humidity and indirect light. For new plant owners or those with a busy schedule, this low-maintenance plant is a great choice.
Friendship Plant Profile
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Botanical Name: Pilea peperomioidesÂ
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Common Name:Â Friendship Plant, Pass It onÂ
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Family: Urticaceae
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Native Range:Â Yunnan province in southern China
Friendship Plant Care Guide
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Care Level: Easy
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Light: Prefers bright, indirect light
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Water:Â Water about once a week, or when the soil is nearly dry
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Humidity: High but can handle average room humidityÂ
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Temperature: No lower than 55F
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Pruning: Prune as needed to remove brown or dead leaves and control growth
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Feeding: Fertilize once month in spring and summer
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Propagation: This plant produces baby plants or "pups" from the stem or surrounding soil. To do so, cut the plantlet away from the mother plant and then place the plantets into a new pot to grow.
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Pests: Generally resilient to pests
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Toxicity: Non-toxic to humans and pets. However, as with all plants, we recommend you exercise caution with children and pets
Fun Fact About Friendship Plants: Itâs the Ultimate Gift Plant!
One of the reasons Pilea Peperomioides is known as the âFriendship Plantâ is due to its ability to grow "pups," or baby plants, at its base. These pups can easily be propagated and shared with friends, making it a symbol of generosity and friendship in the plant world. Simply remove the pups from the mother plant and gift them to friends and family to grow their own!
Pilea History - A Rich History Rooted in China
Originating from the Yunnan province in southern China, Pilea Peperomioides has a fascinating history. This plant was first discovered by a Norwegian missionary in the early 20th century and brought back to Europe. It became popular through informal sharing among friends, which is how it earned its common name, the Friendship Plant. Despite its humble beginnings, itâs now a global houseplant favorite.