An introduction to the care and detailed cultivation methods of the crinkle leaf plant, specifically as follows:
The plant commonly referred to as crinkle leaf plant, scientifically known as "Pilea mollis," truly lives up to its vivid and descriptive name. Its leaves are bumpy and particularly rough, with red veins and the ability to produce small white-green flowers.
Shown above is Pilea mollis
Shown above is Pilea mollis 'Moon Valley'
There is also a horticultural variety of crinkle leaf plant (Urticaceae Pilea) called Pilea mollis 'Moon Valley'. The leaves are overall similar to the crinkle leaf plant, with a deep green color and red veins surrounding them, making them stand out. The leaves also appear wrinkled.
If you don't prefer the rough leaves of the crinkle leaf plant, there are many other Pilea varieties to choose from in the market, with some having very attractive leaves. They all have the same care methods, differing only in the patterns on their leaves, and I'm sure there will be one that suits you.
(1) Pilea cadierei
How to care for crinkle leaf plant
(2) Pilea glaucophylla
Various Pilea species are less common compared to popular plants like pothos, money trees, or lucky bamboo. They are more affordable, not lacking in ornamental value, and relatively easy to care for, making them suitable for beginners.
Crinkle leaf plants and other Pilea species require minimal sunlight, making them highly shade-tolerant foliage plants. The flowers are not particularly ornamental and are not very conspicuous.
1. Repotting and potting soil
Don't rush to repot the crinkle leaf plant after bringing it home. Let it acclimate in a well-ventilated and shaded area for about three to five days. Once the potting soil is dry, you can repot it with the soil, choosing a loose, breathable, and well-draining sandy loam and humus soil, such as a common general-purpose soil mixed with perlite at a 4:1 ratio.
The new pot should be slightly larger than the original one, with a large drainage hole at the bottom. You can choose common red clay pots or root control pots.
2. Sunlight
Ensure the crinkle leaf plant gets at least an hour or two of diffused light daily, or it can be kept under artificial lighting. Just maintain bright lighting and avoid excessively dark areas.
3. Temperature
Crinkle leaf plants prefer a warm and humid environment, with a minimum care temperature of above 5 degrees Celsius. Avoid frost. Control watering when temperatures are low, and the plant will grow faster when temperatures exceed 18 degrees Celsius.
4. Humidity and water
Crinkle leaf plants like moisture and higher humidity. Avoid long periods of relative humidity below 40%. When the air is dry, frequently mist the plant with water or use a humidifier nearby to increase humidity.