Source: Wikimedia Commons
Aluminum Plant
BeginnerPilea cadierei
A pilea whose dark green leaves carry four rows of raised silver patches, as if splashed with aluminium paint. The patches catch the light with a metallic sheen.
About
Pilea cadierei is an evergreen perennial in the nettle family (Urticaceae), native to Guizhou and Yunnan in southern China and to Vietnam. The epithet honours the twentieth-century botanist R. P. Cadière. As its common names aluminium plant and watermelon pilea suggest, its dark green leaves carry silver markings, with four rows of raised silvery patches on each leaf. The leaves are obovate to elliptic, about 2.5-6 cm long, with shallowly toothed margins, and are arranged in opposite pairs. The stems are upright, and the plant spreads by underground rhizomes into clumps. It is a different species from the Chinese money plant, Pilea peperomioides, and the silver markings make it easy to tell apart. Several cultivars exist, including the dwarf 'Minima'. It likes bright indirect light and fairly high humidity and should be kept out of direct sun. Young plants have the best foliage, so renewing plants from cuttings in spring is recommended. It is listed as non-toxic to dogs, cats and horses. In Japan it is a regularly available mini houseplant with silver markings.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Size of the Aluminum Plant
The Aluminum Plant grows to About 20-30 cm in pots; up to about 60 cm.
Basic Info
Origin
Southern China (Guizhou, Yunnan) and Vietnam
Lifespan
Perennial (evergreen)
Size
About 20-30 cm in pots; up to about 60 cm
Temperature
15〜30℃
Humidity
50〜70%
Watering & Fertilizer
Light houseplant feed in the growing season
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
Bright indirect light; avoid full sun, which scorches the leaves.
Watering
Water moderately in the growing season and less from autumn through winter. Overwatering or poor drainage commonly causes root rot.
Temperature & Overwintering
A tender tropical plant. Keep it in a warm, humid room in winter.
Soil & Repotting
Use a peaty, soil-based mix. It likes humidity, so a humidified room or a tray of wet pebbles helps.
Propagation
Pinch stem tips to keep it compact. Young plants have the best foliage, so some growers replace plants each spring from cuttings.
Pests & Cautions
Watch for mealybugs, scale, aphids and spider mites. Powdery mildew can appear in high humidity with poor air flow. It is listed as non-toxic to dogs, cats and horses.
Aluminum Plant FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Aluminum Plant?
Beginner. A variety suitable for beginners. No special equipment or experience is required—you can grow it without problems by setting up a basic cultivation environment.
QHow large does Aluminum Plant get?
The mature size of Aluminum Plant is About 20-30 cm in pots; up to about 60 cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Aluminum Plant?
Aluminum Plant: watering & fertilizer — Light houseplant feed in the growing season. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Aluminum Plant?
The price of Aluminum Plant varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 23, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices. Not a designated invasive alien species in Japan, nor a nationally rare species under the Act on Conservation of Endangered Species.
Sources: Species+ (CITES listing check) / Ministry of the Environment: List of Invasive Alien Species
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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