Pilea depressa aka Depressed Clearweed

Taxonomy

Pilea depressa, also known as kiereweed, is a low-growing, herbaceous plant native to the Caribbean. It can reach up to 16 inches in height with creeping, thin, and smooth stems. The small, oval, and glossy leaves have a wavy edge, with the upper part usually green or light green and the lower part reddish-green. This perennial tropical plant produces small blossoms in inflorescences, followed by one-seeded boxes covered with a pericarp. Pilea plants are part of a genus that includes over 600 wild species with water-storing leaves, and fossils have been found dating back over 5 million years ago. The dormant period for Pilea depressa lasts from October to February, making it a popular ornamental houseplant.

Common names

Depressed Clearweed, Baby Toes

How to care for Depressed Clearweed

Difficulty

Depressed Clearweed requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.

Water

Depressed Clearweed should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Depressed Clearweed loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Depressed Clearweed prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Dormancy

During the cold period, it is common for Depressed Clearweed to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.

Toxicity

Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.

Humidity

The Depressed Clearweed is not in need of supplementary humidity. Most water is taken in by plants through their roots, thus soil watering is the most efficient way to provide humidity to your plants.

Fertilizer

The Depressed Clearweed should be repotted either when it doubles in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing new potting soil with all the vital nutrients annually is enough to support the growth of the plant, and thus, there is no need for fertilizer. Remember that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.

Region of origin

Depressed Clearweed’s native range is Worldwide.


More info:
Wikipedia