I am a small, bushy, evergreen perennial grown exclusively for my ornamental foliage.

My most iconic feature is my oval, deeply quilted (puckered) leaves with irregular silvery-white or metallic-gray splotches between the leaf veins, contrasting sharply against the dark green background.

I have a dense, upright growth habit and can become slightly woody at the base with age.

I may produce small, inconspicuous greenish flowers, but they are rarely seen indoors and are not ornamental.

I am native to the tropical rainforests of Vietnam and China.

I prefer consistently moist soil. Water me when the top inch of soil feels dry.

I am sensitive to both overwatering (causes root rot and leaf drop) and underwatering (causes wilting and crispy leaves). Good drainage is essential.

I thrive in high humidity (50% or more). Low humidity is a common cause of brown, crispy leaf edges. A pebble tray or humidifier is beneficial.

Use room-temperature water and avoid wetting the leaves to prevent water spots on the metallic variegation.

I need bright, indirect light to maintain my compact growth and vibrant leaf markings.

Some gentle morning sun can enhance the leaf color, but direct afternoon sun will scorch my leaves, causing brown patches.

In too little light, my growth will become leggy as I stretch for light, and the stunning silvery variegation will fade and become less pronounced.

An east-facing window is ideal.

I am a tropical plant and prefer warm, stable temperatures between 18°C and 24°C.

I am very sensitive to cold drafts, sudden temperature changes, and temperatures below 13°C.

I am grown almost exclusively as a houseplant (USDA zones 11-12 if outdoors in a sheltered, shaded spot).

I am a perfect tabletop, desk, or shelf plant where my intricate leaf patterns can be admired up close.

Use a well-draining, peat-based potting mix.

Pinch back the stem tips regularly to encourage a bushy, compact shape and prevent legginess.

I can be easily propagated from stem cuttings in water or soil.

Feed me every 2-4 weeks during the active growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer.

Do not fertilize in fall and winter when growth slows.

Over-fertilizing can cause leaf burn and a buildup of salts in the soil.

Scientific Name: Pilea cadierei

Common Names: Watermelon Pilea, Aluminum Plant

Plant Family: Urticaceae (Nettle family)

Plant Type: Evergreen perennial herb

I am non-toxic to cats and dogs, making me a safe and interesting choice for pet-friendly homes.

While not among the most powerful air purifiers, my foliage contributes to a healthier indoor environment by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. My textured leaves may also help trap dust.