1/10

Silver Tree

4.3 out of 5 (4 experiences)

Easy to propagate

Browns easily

About Silver Tree

Pilea plants are native to regions worldwide, and often have succulent, water-storing leaves. A handful of them are grown as houseplants, but the rest of the 600+ species are wild plants. Their name comes from the Latin for 'felt cap' which refers to the unique way that their fruits are protected. Fossils of Pilea species have been found dating back over 5 million years ago!

Taxonomy

Scientific name

Pilea spruceana

Genus

Pilea

Family

Urticaceae

Order

Rosales

Also known as

Artillery Plant, pilea silver tree and Norfolk

How to care for Silver Tree

💦 Water

How often to water your Silver Tree

Silver Tree needs 0.5 cups of water every 9 when it doesn’t get direct sunlight and is potted in a 5" pot.

Use our water calculator to personalize watering recommendations to your environment or download Greg for more advanced recommendations for all of your plants.

Water 0.5 cups every
9

Does your plant get direct sunlight?

No Yes

Select the pot size

☀️ Light

Finding light for Silver Tree in your home

Silver Tree may have difficulty thriving, and will drop leaves 🍃, without ample sunlight.

Place it less than 3 feet from a south-facing window to maximize the potential for growth.

Select your region to see how the current weather in your area affects the placement of Silver Tree in your home 🏡.

🪴 Nutrients

How to fertilize Silver Tree

Nutrient, fertilizer, and repotting needs for Silver Tree: repot after 2X growth

Most potting soils come with ample nutrients which plants use to produce new growth.

By the time your plant has depleted the nutrients in its soil it’s likely grown enough to need a larger pot anyway.

To replenish this plant's nutrients, repot your Silver Tree after it doubles in size or once a year—whichever comes first.

Browse #Pilea

💡 FAQs

💦 Water Needs

Silver Tree prefers for the soil to dry out between waterings and should be watered regularly. Use our water calculator to personalize watering recommendations to your environment or download Greg for more advanced recommendations for all of your plants.

Silver Tree Water Frequency →

Silver Tree Root Rot →

☀️ Sunlight Needs

Silver Tree may have difficulty thriving and will drop leaves 🍃 without ample sunlight. Place it less than 3 feet from a window to maximize the potential for growth. Select your region to see how the current weather in your area affects the placement in your home 🏡.

Silver Tree Light Requirements →

Silver Tree Direct Sunlight Needs & Tolerance →

🐶 🐈 👶 Toxicity

Greg does not have confirmed data on this plant’s toxicity. If you, a family member, or a pet consumes plant material of unknown toxicity, it’s always best to consult a medical professional.

If you or someone else ingested this plant, call Poison Control at US (800) 222-1222. If a pet consumed this plant, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA at US (888) 426-4435.

💨 Humidity

Silver Tree doesn’t require additional humidity. Plants absorb most water through their root system rather than their leaves, so the best way to provide humidity for your plants is through watering the soil.

Silver Tree Humidity Needs →

🪴 Soil

Silver Tree does best in well-draining soil. A good soil will contain lots of organic matter such as coco coir as well as perlite or vermiculite to help with drainage. Adding a handful of perlite to regular store-bought potting soil should do the trick!

When and How to Successfully Repot Silver Tree →

💩 Fertilizer

Silver Tree should be repotted after it doubles in size or once a year, whichever comes first. Fresh potting soil has all the nutrients your plant needs, so as long as it’s refreshed yearly, you shouldn’t need to use fertilizer. Remember, plants get their energy from sunlight, not fertilizer!

How Much and When to Fertilize Silver Tree →

❄️ Dormancy

It’s common for Silver Tree to go dormant in the wintertime and you may notice their growth slow down. Waterings should be spaced out more during this time.

🌎 Native Region

Silver Tree is native to Worldwide.

🧐 Troubleshooting

When troubleshooting a sad-looking houseplant, start by checking for signs of distress in its leaves, such as yellowing, browning, or drooping, which can indicate overwatering or nutrient deficiencies.

Inspect the soil moisture; too dry or too wet soil can cause problems.

Ensure the plant is getting the right amount of light, as too much or too little can stress it.

Finally, consider environmental factors like temperature and humidity, and adjust care routines accordingly to revive your plant.