The “Elefantöra” plant, formally known as Pilea peperomioides, has gained popularity as a houseplant due to its unique appearance and straightforward care. Originally from the mountainous regions of Southern China, this evergreen perennial is part of the nettle (Urticaceae) family. Its distinctive, circular, coin-shaped leaves give rise to common names like Chinese Money Plant, Pancake Plant, and UFO Plant. These leaves are peltate, meaning their long stems attach at the center, creating a floating effect. The plant is often associated with good fortune and friendship, making it a thoughtful gift.
Elefantöra Plant Care
Light Requirements
Elefantöra plants thrive in bright, indirect light. Placing them near a north or east-facing window is ideal, as direct, intense sunlight can scorch their leaves. If a south or west-facing window is the only option, sheer curtains or blinds can diffuse the light. Insufficient light leads to leggy growth as the plant stretches for illumination. Rotating the plant weekly ensures even light exposure, promoting symmetrical growth.
Watering Needs
Proper watering is important; these plants dislike consistently wet soil. Water when the top one to two inches of soil feel dry to the touch. Overwatering is a common issue leading to root rot, characterized by drooping leaves, yellowing, and mushy stems. Conversely, underwatering also causes leaves to droop and yellow, though they perk up after watering. Thoroughly soak the soil until water drains from the bottom, then discard excess water from the saucer.
Soil Preferences
Elefantöra plants require a well-draining and aerated potting mix to prevent waterlogging and root rot. A good quality, all-purpose potting soil benefits from amendments that improve drainage. Adding perlite or pumice (around 30%) enhances aeration and drainage; orchid bark or pine bark fines (about 10%) can also be included. A suitable pH range for the soil is between 6.0 and 7.0.
Temperature and Humidity
Elefantöra plants prefer indoor temperatures ranging from 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (15-24 degrees Celsius), though they can tolerate 50-85 degrees Fahrenheit (10-30 degrees Celsius). Protect them from cold drafts and extreme temperature fluctuations, as these can cause leaves to drop or develop brown spots. While Elefantöra adapt to normal household humidity, they thrive in levels between 50-75%. If your home’s air is dry, increase humidity by misting foliage, placing the pot on a pebble tray, or grouping plants.
Fertilizing
Elefantöra plants are not heavy feeders but benefit from regular fertilization during their active growing season in spring and summer. During fall and winter, fertilization should be reduced or stopped. A balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer, diluted to half strength, is suitable. Fertilizing once a month is a common recommendation, but frequency varies. Over-fertilizing can lead to nutrient burn, so follow dilution instructions carefully.
Propagating Elefantöra
Propagating Elefantöra is a straightforward process, making it easy to share new plants. The most common method involves separating the plant’s offsets, often called “pups” or “baby plants,” which naturally emerge from the base of the mother plant. The best time for propagation is during the plant’s active growing period, typically spring and early summer, for the highest success rate.
To propagate, carefully remove the mother plant from its pot to expose the root system. Locate the offsets, which often have their own small roots, and use a clean, sharp knife or scissors to cut them from the main plant. If the pup is small and lacks developed roots, root it in water; place the cut stem in water, ensuring no leaves are submerged to prevent rot. Change the water every few days, and roots should form within one to two weeks.
Once roots are about an inch long, transfer the rooted offset to a small pot with well-draining soil. Gently press the soil around the roots. Keep the soil consistently moist for the first one to two weeks to help the new plant establish itself, then transition to a regular watering schedule. Alternatively, if the offset has a good root system when separated, plant it directly into soil and water thoroughly.
Troubleshooting Common Elefantöra Issues
Yellowing leaves are a frequent concern and can indicate several problems. The most common cause is improper soil moisture, particularly overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Yellowing can also result from underwatering, nutrient deficiencies like nitrogen or potassium, or too much direct sunlight. If yellowing occurs primarily on older, lower leaves, it might signal a nitrogen deficiency or natural aging.
Drooping leaves indicate watering issues. Underwatering causes the plant to wilt from thirst but recovers quickly after watering. Overwatering also causes drooping due to root rot, where roots are starved of oxygen. The soil may remain soggy, and the plant’s overall health declines. Poor drainage can exacerbate overwatering problems.
Brown spots or crispy edges on leaves result from low humidity or sunburn. If the air is too dry, leaf edges may become brown and crispy. Direct, intense sunlight can also cause brown, burnt spots on the foliage. Mineral deposits from tap water can appear as harmless white spots.
Pest infestations can affect Elefantöra. Common houseplant pests like aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs can cause yellowing leaves, sticky residue (honeydew), or visible cottony masses. Regularly inspecting the plant, especially the undersides of leaves and stem junctions, helps detect pests early. For treatment, manual removal with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol is effective for small infestations. Organic solutions like insecticidal soap or neem oil can be sprayed to control pests.