Pilea depressa, known as “Creeping Jenny” or “Miniature Trailing Watermelon,” is a charming houseplant with small, rounded, succulent-like leaves and an attractive trailing habit. Its dense, mat-forming growth makes it popular for hanging baskets, terrariums, or as indoor ground cover. Its straightforward care makes it a good option for new indoor gardeners.
Pilea Depressa Basic Care
Light
Pilea depressa thrives in bright, indirect light. Placing it near a window with filtered light, like through a sheer curtain, is ideal. Direct midday sun can scorch its leaves, causing brown, crispy edges. Insufficient light leads to leggy growth, as the plant stretches toward a light source, resulting in sparse growth and smaller leaves.
Water
Maintain consistent soil moisture without waterlogging. Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering causes root rot, characterized by yellowing leaves and a mushy stem base. Underwatering leads to wilting, sunken, or yellowed leaves. Check soil moisture with your finger or a moisture meter before watering to prevent these issues.
Soil
A well-draining, airy, and organically rich potting mix is best for Pilea depressa. Components like peat moss, perlite, or sand ensure good drainage and aeration, preventing water accumulation around the roots. A general indoor plant potting mix with added perlite or a tropical substrate also works.
Temperature and Humidity
Pilea depressa prefers average room temperatures, 60-75°F (15-24°C). It is sensitive to cold drafts and sudden temperature changes. The plant also benefits from moderate to high humidity, ideally above 60%. To increase humidity, place the pot on a pebble tray, use a room humidifier, or group plants together.
Fertilizer
During its active growing season (spring and summer), Pilea depressa benefits from regular fertilization. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 N-P-K ratio, diluted to half or quarter strength. Fertilize about once a month or every four waterings. Reduce or halt fertilization in fall and winter when growth slows, to prevent chemical burn.
Pruning and Maintenance
Regular pruning maintains the Pilea depressa’s compact shape and encourages bushier growth. To promote a denser appearance and manage leggy stems, pinch back new growth just above a leaf node. Trimming longer stems keeps the plant tidy and provides cuttings for propagation. Always use clean, sharp scissors to prevent disease spread.
Propagating Pilea Depressa
Propagating Pilea depressa is straightforward, primarily through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem section, 2-4 inches long, with at least two leaf nodes. Remove lower leaves, leaving a few at the top to minimize moisture loss.
Cuttings can be rooted in water by submerging the nodes (keep leaves above waterline), changing water every few days. Alternatively, insert the cutting into moist, well-draining potting mix, burying at least one node. A clear plastic bag over the pot creates a humid environment for rooting. Roots typically develop within weeks, after which the new plant can be treated as mature.
Common Pilea Depressa Problems
Yellowing leaves often signal improper soil moisture, usually overwatering due to poor drainage. Ensure adequate drainage and allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Browning leaf tips or curling leaves indicate low humidity or too much direct sunlight, which can scorch foliage. Move the plant to a shadier, more humid location to alleviate symptoms.
Wilting results from either underwatering (lack of moisture) or root rot from overwatering. Check soil moisture to determine the cause. Pilea depressa is also susceptible to common pests like spider mites and mealybugs, addressed by increasing humidity or using insecticidal soap for severe infestations.