Plant guide
ピレア
Watering rhythm
Every 5–7 days
Pilea is an easy-to-grow houseplant with characteristically small, round leaves. Native to Southeast Asia, including China and Vietnam, it has a compact growth habit that fits perfectly on shelves and desks—making it a favorite among beginners. Its shade tolerance and hardy nature mean you'll rarely see it decline, which is part of its appeal.
Pilea thrives in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sun exposure. The ideal temperature range is 15–25°C; try not to let it drop below 10°C. Humidity around 40–60% works well. A spot by a window with filtered light or a bright corner of your living room is perfect.
Light and temperature change a plant's metabolism, so the ideal cadence shifts with the seasons.
Spring
Every 4–6 days
Summer
Every 4–5 days
Autumn
Every 5–7 days
Winter
Every 8–12 days
Water when the top of the soil feels dry to the touch—a good rule is to check if the soil is dry down to your first knuckle. Water generously until it drains from the bottom, then empty any water that collects in the saucer. Be careful not to overwater, as soggy soil can lead to root rot.
Quick lookup from symptom to likely cause and action.
| Symptom | Likely cause | What to try |
|---|---|---|
| Leaves turning yellow | Usually caused by overwatering or root rot, often made worse by poor-draining soil. | Let the soil dry out before watering again, and improve air circulation around the pot. If root rot has set in, take the plant out of its pot, trim away any blackened roots, and repot it in fresh soil. |
| Leaves curling or wilting | The soil has dried out too much, or the roots aren't functioning properly. Winter heating can make this worse. | Check how dry the soil is and water if needed. Misting the leaves with a spray bottle can give a quick boost to recovery. |
| Spider mites on the leaves | Spider mites thrive in dry environments. You'll notice tiny insects on the leaves and fine, scraped patches. | Mist the undersides of the leaves thoroughly to wash the mites away. Keeping humidity consistently higher helps prevent them from coming back. If the infestation is severe, consider using a miticide. |
| New leaves aren't growing | Usually not enough light or nutrients. In winter, slowed growth is completely normal as the plant rests. | Move it to a brighter spot during the growing season (spring through fall). Feeding with diluted liquid fertilizer once or twice a month during this time works well. |
| Stems stretching and becoming leggy | Insufficient light causes the plant to reach for more. Poor air circulation can also contribute. | Move it to a brighter location and improve ventilation. If you'd like a bushier shape, a light pinch to the stems will encourage branching. |
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