Pilea depressa aka Depressed Clearweed

Pilea depressa propagates easily from stem cuttings. Cut a 2-4 inch section with at least two leaf nodes using clean scissors. For water propagation, place the cutting in tepid water with nodes submerged, keeping it in bright indirect light and changing the water weekly. Roots typically appear in 7-10 days at 20°C, and the cutting can be transplanted when roots reach 2-3 inches. For soil propagation, insert the cutting into moist potting mix with nodes buried, keep in a warm humid environment, and maintain consistent moisture until roots develop.

Pilea depressa is a fast-growing, low-growing plant that typically reaches 3-10 inches (8-25 cm) in height with a trailing, mat-forming growth habit. Under optimal conditions with adequate moisture and humidity, it can quickly form thick mats or long cascading vines. The plant exhibits dense, prostrate growth in bright light, creating a carpet-like appearance, while lower light conditions result in leggier growth as stems stretch toward the light source.

Yes, Pilea depressa produces small, white, star-like flowers in late spring to summer. The flowers are tiny, petal-less, and appear in clusters along the stems, but they're barely noticeable among the dense green foliage. While these delicate blooms can last several days, they're considered a minor ornamental feature compared to the plant's attractive evergreen foliage, which remains the main decorative appeal.

The most popular cultivars of Pilea depressa are 'Sao Paulo' and 'Tiny Tears.' Both are delicate, trailing varieties prized for their small, round, dense dark green leaves that create a lush carpet or ground cover effect. 'Sao Paulo' is known for rapid, creeping growth and works beautifully in hanging baskets and terrariums. These cultivars were selected from the wild species for their enhanced ornamental characteristics while maintaining the species' easy-care nature.

Pilea depressa can be grown outdoors year-round only in USDA hardiness zones 10-12, which provide warm, frost-free conditions. The plant does not tolerate temperatures below 50°F (10°C), making it unsuitable for outdoor cultivation in cooler climates. In zones 1-9, it can only be kept outdoors temporarily during warm summer months or must be treated as an annual. Gardeners in cooler regions should bring plants indoors before the first frost.

Pruning is not necessary for Pilea depressa but can be done to control size and encourage bushier growth. If desired, use clean, sharp scissors to trim back leggy or overgrown stems to your preferred length during spring and summer only. Regular pruning helps maintain the plant's dense, mat-forming appearance. Additionally, periodically remove any dead, discolored, or diseased foliage to keep the plant looking tidy and healthy.

Repot Pilea depressa every 1-3 years in spring using a houseplant potting mix. The plant grows more efficiently in shallow, wide pots that accommodate its spreading, mat-forming growth habit. To minimize transplant shock, water the plant 24 hours before repotting. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one, as Pilea depressa doesn't require excessive root space and can become stressed in overly large containers.

Pilea depressa requires minimal cleaning due to its tiny leaves. Periodically remove dead, yellowed, or diseased foliage using clean scissors to maintain appearance and prevent pest issues. The small, delicate leaves don't typically accumulate much dust, but if needed, gently mist or rinse the plant under lukewarm water. Ensure good air circulation around the plant and maintain appropriate humidity levels (60-90%) to keep foliage healthy and prevent fungal issues.

Pilea depressa thrives in warm temperatures between 60-80°F (15-27°C) and does not tolerate cold well. Keep the plant away from temperatures below 50°F (10°C), which can cause damage or death. Avoid placing it near cold drafts, air conditioning vents, or windows during winter. As a tropical plant from the Caribbean, it prefers consistently warm conditions year-round similar to typical indoor home temperatures.

Yellow leaves on Pilea depressa typically indicate overwatering, especially if older leaves near the soil are affected. This often occurs when the plant receives too much water combined with insufficient light. Other causes include underwatering (accompanied by curling and wilting), excessive direct sunlight causing bleaching, or nutrient deficiency particularly potassium. Check soil moisture, adjust watering frequency, ensure adequate drainage, and verify the plant receives bright indirect light rather than direct sun.

Brown leaves or leaf edges on Pilea depressa usually result from underwatering, low humidity, or excessive direct sunlight. Crispy brown edges indicate the plant is too dry—either from insufficient watering or humidity levels below 60%. Brown spots can also signal potassium deficiency or sun scorch from direct light exposure. To remedy this, increase watering frequency slightly, boost humidity through misting or a humidifier, move the plant away from direct sun, and consider fertilizing if deficiency is suspected.

Drooping or wilting in Pilea depressa is most commonly caused by underwatering, signaling the plant needs water urgently. Check if the soil is dry and water thoroughly if needed. Alternatively, drooping can indicate overwatering and root rot, especially if accompanied by yellowing leaves—in this case, reduce watering and ensure proper drainage. Less commonly, wilting may result from temperature stress (too cold), low humidity, or transplant shock after repotting.

Pilea depressa is generally pest-resistant but can occasionally be affected by spider mites and aphids. Spider mites create fine webs and cause yellowing or speckled leaves—treat by increasing humidity and washing the plant with a strong water stream. Aphids may also appear but are less common. For both pests, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil if infestations persist. Prevention is key: maintain proper humidity levels (60-90%), ensure good air circulation, and keep foliage clean to minimize pest problems.