Live Plants
Pilea 'Aluminum'
Sold by Florida Plant · United States
Buy directly from Florida Plant. Final price and availability confirmed at checkout.
Pilea 'Aluminum' (Pilea cadierei), commonly called the aluminum plant, is native to Vietnam. Its green, quilted leaves look as though they have been splashed with silver paint, and that metallic marking is how it earned its common name. It is an upright,
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herbaceous perennial that forms a shrubby clump, typically about 12 inches tall. Pinching back the stems keeps it bushy. Its textured green and silver foliage brightens a shelf or a mixed planting without taking up much room. Why choose Pilea 'Aluminum' Eye-catching tidy, textured foliage Approachable, houseplant-friendly care Adds a fresh, leafy feel to a room Looks best: a bright spot with indirect light. What you receive One live Pilea 'Aluminum', rooted in soil in a 4" nursery pot. Nursery pot and soil included; a decorative planter only if you select one. Live plants vary in height, fullness and leaf count within the pot size you choose; we do not publish measured shipping heights. Will it suit your home? Botanical name: Pilea 'Aluminum' Light: Bright, indirect; tolerates medium; no harsh direct sun Water: when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry. Difficulty: Beginner-friendly. Growth style: Tidy, textured foliage. Mature size: Grows into a fuller plant over time — mature size can vary by growing conditions. Pet safety: Pet-friendly — considered non-toxic to cats and dogs (ASPCA). As with any plant, discourage pets from nibbling. Good fit: Bright, indirect-light spots · Beginners who want easy greenery · Shelves, desks, and brightening a corner. Think twice if: Very dark rooms · People who tend to overwater — it dislikes soggy soil · Spots with harsh, direct sun all day · Anyone wanting a totally hands-off plant. Delivery and arrival help Ships free within the continental U.S. from a greenhouse in Florida or California, carefully packed in its nursery pot with soil. Dispatched within 1–4 business days, Monday to Wednesday so plants don't sit in transit over a weekend; standard transit is typically 3–7 business days after that. Heat packs are not included automatically: in cold weather (below about 45°F at the destination) add Winter Plant Shipping Protection to your order, and in extreme cold or heat we may hold the order until it is safe to ship — we will let you know. If it arrives dead, severely damaged, or significantly different from the description, email photos of the plant and packaging to info@shopfloridaplant.com within 48 hours of delivery for a full refund or a free replacement ( refund policy ). Give your plant a few days to settle in; minor cosmetic marks from transit are normal. Care and common questions Light: Bright, indirect light keeps Pilea 'Aluminum' looking its best, and it tolerates medium light. Avoid harsh, direct sun, which can scorch the leaves. Watering: Water when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry — Pilea 'Aluminum' likes to dry out a bit between waterings and dislikes soggy soil. Water less in winter. Humidity: Average household humidity is fine; it appreciates a little extra but doesn't need it. Temperature: Typical room temperatures (about 65–80°F). Keep it away from cold drafts and hot, dry vents. Soil: A good, well-draining potting mix in a pot with a drainage hole. Fertilizer: Feed lightly with a balanced houseplant fertilizer in spring and summer; pause in winter. Good to know: Rotate it regularly for even growth and pinch the tips to keep it bushy; stem cuttings root easily in water. Care tip: Give it the right light and consistent watering, and Pilea 'Aluminum' stays full and healthy. How often should I water Pilea 'Aluminum'? Water when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry. It prefers to dry out a little between waterings rather than stay soggy. What kind of light does Pilea 'Aluminum' need? Bright, indirect light keeps Pilea 'Aluminum' looking its best, and it tolerates medium light. Avoid harsh, direct sun, which can scorch the leaves. Is Pilea 'Aluminum' pet safe? Yes — Pilea 'Aluminum' is considered non-toxic to cats and dogs (ASPCA), a popular pet-friendly choice. As with any plant, it's best to discourage pets from nibbling. Why is my pilea leggy or curling? Legginess means it wants more light (and rotation); cupping leaves can come from light or watering swings. Give bright indirect light and steady watering. Continue the Collection Browse more tropical houseplants → Explore pet-friendly plants → Browse all live plants →