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 ToesHow 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
More Species in Pilea Genus
Pilea melastomoides
Pilea mollis Moon Valley Pilea
Pilea rotundinucula Pilea Rotundinucula
Pilea grandifolia
Pilea microphylla Artillery Plant
Pilea glabra Pilea 'Silver Sparkle'
Pilea spruceana Clearweed
Pilea pubescens
