Chinese money plant (Pilea peperomioides) — identification, habitat & look-alikes

Chinese money plant is a houseplant native to southwestern China, with round leaves on long stalks. Small offshoots grow around its base and can be separated and shared as new plants, which is why Chinese money plant is also called the friendship plant.

Appearance

Growth form: This compact perennial usually reaches 8–12 in (20–30 cm) tall.
Leaves: The stalk meets the underside near the center of each round, fleshy leaf.
Flowers: Small white to pinkish flowers can appear, but indoor plants rarely bloom.

Look-alikes

Raindrop peperomiaPeperomia polybotrya

Chinese money plant has nearly round leaves. Raindrop peperomia has leaves shaped more like pointed teardrops.

Why they get mixed upBoth are compact houseplants with thick leaves attached away from the leaf edge.

Where it lives

Typical habitats: Indoor pots
Range: Native to southwestern China, it is grown as a houseplant in the United States.
Preferred conditions: Give it bright, indirect light and potting mix that drains well.

Growing it

Propagation: Small offshoots grow near the base and can be separated to start new plants.

Name and classification

About the name: The name “friendship plant” is also used for Pilea involucrata, a different species with crinkled leaves.

Conservation

IUCN Red List: NENot EvaluatedNot yet assessed

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