Pilea grandifolia
Pilea grandifolia (Big-leaf Pilea) Care Guide
Featured photopilea-grandifolia.jpgPilea grandifolia, sold as Big-leaf Pilea, is a small Urticaceae herb in the genus Pilea kept as a houseplant for its textured or patterned foliage. Native to the Caribbean, this larger Pilea has glossy green leaves up to 10 cm long and an upright bushy habit, in contrast to most trailing species in the genus. Pilea are pet-safe, propagate easily from cuttings or offsets, and tolerate average household humidity.
Care facts at a glance
- Light
- Bright indirect
- Water
- Water when the top 2 cm of mix has dried.
- Humidity
- 40–60 %
- Temperature
- 16–24 °C
- Soil
- Well-draining houseplant mix with extra perlite or pumice for aeration.
- Toxicity
- Non-toxic. Safe to grow around children. (humans) · Non-toxic to cats and dogs per ASPCA listings for the genus Pilea. (pets)
- Origin
- Tropical and subtropical regions across the Americas, Africa, and Asia.
- Mature size
- 10 to 30 cm tall depending on species, similar or wider spread.
Overview
Pilea grandifolia is one of about 700 species in Pilea, the largest genus in the nettle family Urticaceae. Native to the Caribbean, this larger Pilea has glossy green leaves up to 10 cm long and an upright bushy habit, in contrast to most trailing species in the genus. Despite the family connection, Pilea lack the stinging hairs of Urtica.
Care Priorities
- Bright filtered light keeps growth compact; deep shade leaves leggy.
- Water when the top 2 cm of mix is dry.
- Average humidity (40 to 60 percent) is enough.
- Pinch growing tips to keep the plant bushy.
- Take cuttings every spring — Pilea propagates readily and parent plants benefit from the trim.
Common Problems
Wilting is usually thirst — water and the plant perks up within hours. Yellow lower leaves with mushy stems mean overwatering. White cottony spots on stems are mealybugs; dab with rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab.
Sources & further reading (3)
- encyclopedia — accessed 2026-04-28
- botanical-garden — accessed 2026-04-28
- toxicity-database — accessed 2026-04-28
Frequently asked questions
How big does Pilea grandifolia get?
Indoors it reaches 30 to 50 cm tall — large for a Pilea. The bushy upright form makes it a tabletop specimen rather than a hanging-basket plant.
How do I propagate this Pilea?
Take a 5 to 8 cm stem cutting just below a node, remove the lower leaves, and root in water or directly in moist potting mix. Roots typically appear within 2 to 3 weeks.
Is this Pilea safe for cats and dogs?
Yes — Pilea species are listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs by the ASPCA, making them a safe choice for households with curious pets.
