Aluminum Plant, Watermelon pilea

(Pilea Cadierei )

August 1996

DESCRIPTION:

Glossy green leaves are oval with pointed leaf tips and have striking patches of silver on the upper raised leaf surface.

FOLIAGE COLORS:

Green and Silver

CONTAINER:

Small container, small planter (dish garden with plants that need alot of moisture).

LIGHT:

Medium. East or west window, about one thousand footcandles.

WATER:

Frequent. Water thoroughly, keep soil evenly moist to touch (not saturated). Don't let sit in water.

TEMPERATURE:

Medium. 61 - 70 (degrees F) days, 56 - 65 nights.

HUMIDITY:

High

FERTILIZER:

Every 2 - 3 months.

SOIL MIX:

3 parts leafmold , 3 parts peat moss, 2 parts coarse sand

PROPOGATION:

Tip cuttings

SELECTION GUIDE:

Select sturdy, shapely, healthy plant free from insect and disease damage. New leaf growth is desirable. Avoid plants with yellow or brown leaf margins, wilted or water soaked leaves.

CARE:

Easy. Tolerates wide range of conditions. Good for beginners.

OTHER CULTIVARS:

`Minima' - dwarf form

PROBLEMS:

Root rot: Provide adequate drainage. Do not let plant sit in water.

COMMENTS:

Can be used in dish gardens with other plants that require alot of moisture. Also good in terrariums. Easily propagated from cuttings.

This material was developed by Carol Ness as part of the Interactive Design and Development Project funded by the Kellogg Foundation. Mary Miller, Project Director. Diane Relf, Content Specialist, Horticulture. Copyright 1989 by VCE.

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