Pilea involucrata
Species of flowering plant
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Pilea involucrata (Sims) Urb., commonly known as the friendship plant,[1] is a species of flowering plant in the nettle family Urticaceae, native to Central and South America.[2] It is a popular houseplant due to its unique foliage and relatively easy care.[2] This species is best known for its popular cultivar, Pilea involucrata 'Moon Valley'.
| Friendship plant | |
|---|---|
| |
Scientific classification  | |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Clade: | Embryophytes |
| Clade: | Tracheophytes |
| Clade: | Spermatophytes |
| Clade: | Angiosperms |
| Clade: | Eudicots |
| Clade: | Rosids |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Urticaceae |
| Genus: | Pilea |
| Species: | P. involucrata |
| Binomial name | |
| Pilea involucrata (Sims) Urb. | |
Description
Pilea involucrata is a bushy, trailing plant typically growing to a height and spread of 10–12 inches (25–30 centimetres).[3] The species typically features bright green leaves with a quilted or corrugated texture, often with bronze or reddish undersides.[4] It occasionally produces small, pink-white flowers, but these are infrequent when grown indoors.[5]
Cultivation
The friendship plant prefers bright, indirect light and well-draining soil that is kept evenly moist.[4] It thrives in temperatures between 65–80 °F (18–27 °C) and moderate to high humidity levels.[6] Pilea involucrata is easily propagated through division or stem cuttings.
Cultivar: 'Moon Valley'
Pilea involucrata 'Moon Valley', also known as the Moon Valley plant, is a distinct cultivar recognized for its deeply textured, cratered leaves that resemble the moon's surface.[7] The foliage is primarily chartreuse-green, highlighted by prominent bronze-colored veins. It is often mistakenly identified as Pilea mollis due to its similar appearance and the shared common name "friendship plant".[8]
Uses
Pilea involucrata, including its 'Moon Valley' cultivar, is primarily grown as a houseplant.[9] It is well-suited for terrariums, hanging baskets, and tabletop displays due to its compact size and visually appealing foliage.
