Kiereweed

Kiereweed Care

Pilea depressa

What is the plant

Kiereweed is a perennial tropical native to the Caribbean. This low-growing herbaceous is mainly grown for ornamental purposes.

Pilea depressa reaches up to 16 inches (40cm) in height. The stems are creeping, thin and smooth. The leaves are small, oval, glossy, and have a wavy edge. The color of the upper part of the leaf is usually green or light green, and the lower part is reddish-green. Small blossoms are collected in inflorescences. After pollination, the plant produces fruits in small, one-seeded boxes covered with a pericarp. The dormant period lasts from October to February.

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Humidity

Normal

Lighting

Part Sun

Temperature

17°C - 18°C

Hardiness zone

9b - 11b

Difficulty

Medium

How to Care for the Plant

Water
In the spring and summer, moisten the soil immediately after its top layer dries. When irrigating, use distilled water. In the cold season, water two days after the substrate has dried. Pilea depressa tolerates drought much better than excess fluid.
Pruning
If you want to avoid annual transplants, you can pinch Kiereweed regularly. You can also cut off emerging inflorescences, so the plant does not waste energy on flowering.
Fertilizer
In the spring-summer period, fertilize once in 7 days. Use mineral complex fertilizer for decorative leafy plants. In winter, the number of dressings can be reduced to 1 time in 4 weeks.

Disease diagnosis

Check your plant’s health

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Sunlight
Pilea depressa needs bright but diffused light. Avoid direct sunlight. A west- or east-facing windowsill is best suited for growing Kiereweed. This greenie also requires a lot of sun in winter, so don't let it freeze!
Soil
Use humus soil with a slightly acidic or neutral composition. You can prepare a mix yourself. Combine humus and turf soil, sand, and peat in equal proportions.
Propagation
You can propagate Kierewed from cuttings or seeds. Propagation by cuttings can be done at any time of the year. Place the cuttings in a container of water or loose substrate. Allow them to grow roots, and then move them to a pot with a soil mix.

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Temperature
Kiereweed feels most comfortable throughout the year at 77°F (25°C). During the winter, you need to ensure the temperature doesn't drop below 63°F (17°C). Remember that winter drafts can cause harm to your leafy buddy.
Container
Since Pilea depressa has a shallow root system, you can use a small pot. It should be more broad than deep. Remember to provide the drainage layer. You can also grow the plant hydroponically.
Fun fact
In Western Europe, Pilea depressa is known as "Baby Tears." The plant owes this name to the shape of its leaves.