- Pilea involucrata, known as Brazilian nettle, is native to Central and South America, prized for its velvety, crinkled leaves.
- This plant grows best in bright, diffused light and requires moist air and light soil.
- Learn how to easily propagate pilea and thicken it with homemade fertilizer to enjoy lush greenery.
- Discover the popular Pilea involucrata varieties available in Poland and see if this “friendship plant” can bring happiness to your home!
Pilea involucrata of Central and South America, mainly from Mexico, Brazil and Venezuela. It belongs to the nettle family and is called by many people the Brazilian nettle. Its greatest decoration are wrinkled, velvety leaves in shades of green with brown or red accents. It grows to about 30 cm in height, has a bushy shape and works well in pots and terrariums.
What requirements does Pilea involucrata have? Location and growing conditions
Pilea involucrata likes bright but diffused light. Do not place the pot with the flower in places with access to direct sunlight, which may burn the leaves. Eastern or northern window sills are ideal. The optimal temperature is 18-25 degrees C, in winter not less than 15 degrees C. The plant does not like drafts, but moist air is very beneficial for it. It is worth misting the leaves or placing the pot on a stand with damp expanded clay. Pilea grows well in light, permeable soil. A mixture of universal soil with sand or perlite will work here. The soil should always be slightly moist, but not wet. The flower tolerates short drying better than overwatering. The safest way to water the plant is from the bottom, immersing the pot in water for a few minutes.
How to thicken Pilea involucrata flower? Homemade conditioner and propagation
Pilea is easy to breed. Just cut off the top of the shoot and root it in water. If we want to obtain a nicer shape of the plant, we can use a homemade conditioner. A solution of yeast and sugar is a simple, natural way to provide the plant with B vitamins and trace elements that support the growth and healthy appearance of leaves. Dissolve 10 g of yeast with a teaspoon of sugar in a liter of lukewarm water. Set the solution aside for 2 hours in a warm place. After this time, the conditioner is ready for use. Water your houseplant with the mixture once every 4 weeks during the period of intensive growth (spring-summer). Do not use the conditioner too often and do not store it for longer than 24 hours.
Pilea involucrata. What varieties are available in Poland?
- Moon Valley – the most popular variety with deeply wrinkled leaves with a brown pattern.
- Silver Tree – leaves with a silvery stripe along the vein.
- Pilea spruceana – a Peruvian variety with dark leaves with a metallic shine.
Does Pilea bring good luck?
There is no scientific confirmation that plants bring good luck, but for many people pilea involucrata is a symbol of happiness, prosperity and friendship. In some countries it is called the friendship plant because it grows easily and is willing to share. Cut off seedlings can be given to loved ones as a sign of bonding and positive energy. According to popular beliefs, the presence of pilea in the home promotes harmony and good relationships, and its lush green has a soothing effect on the senses, creating an atmosphere of peace and optimism.
Recommended article:
