Pilea involucrata is popular for its colorful foliage and easy-growing habit. It can be a spectacular, excellent beginner’s houseplant with a few quirks. Let’s take a look at How to Grow Friendship Plant!
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Friendship Plant Plant Information
This cute little specimen belongs to the Nettle family and comes from Central and South America. There are over 600 species in the genus Pilea, including the upright, bushy ones, and trailing plants.
The multicolored, corrugated foliage with attractive patterns is oval with darker veins and serrated edges. The exotic leaf color is a mix of burgundy and bronze with a wide green outline and a red-purple underside.
This plant is available widely and can create a striking contrast when grown among other green tropical plants. You can grow it as a standalone or an accent showpiece on a desktop, terrarium, or in a hanging basket.
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Propagating Friendship Plant
The Friendship Plant is relatively easy to propagate via cuttings. Snip off 4-5 inches long stem, take off the lower leaves, and plant it in a well-draining potting mix. Water well and keep the pot where it gets bright but indirect light. It will form roots in 2-3 weeks.
Requirements for Growing Friendship Plant
Light
Keep this low-maintenance plant in a spot that receives indirect sunlight all day long. An east-facing window can be a suitable place. Avoid growing it in a shaded spot as it will fade the colors of the leaves.
Also, do not expose it to the harsh afternoon sunlight as it will burn the foliage.
Soil
Friendship plant prefers a well-draining growing medium. You can use a potting mix meant for African violets. For best growth, mix equal quantities of garden soil, perlite, coco coir, or orchid bark.
Water
Depending on the sunlight, temperature, and humidity it receives, water the plant once every 3-4 days or when the topsoil feels a little dry to the touch. Refrain from moistening the growing medium daily and do not let it go dry completely.
Temperature and Humidity
Friendship plant grows best in temperatures between 65-75ºF or 18-24ºC. Do not place it near any drafts, cold windows, or heaters. It will do just fine in the regular household humidity levels.
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Friendship Plant Care
Fertilizer
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer, diluted to half or a quarter of its strength, once in 5-6 weeks. Do not feed the plant in winter.
Alternatively, you can also use an 8-14-9 blend to promote lush foliage. Do refer to the label for dosage and instructions.
Pests and Diseases
Some common pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids can attack this gorgeous houseplant. Use a neem oil solution or insecticidal soap to keep these pests at bay.
To save the plant from potential diseases, keep it at an airy location and avoid overwatering.
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