How to Care for Chinese Money Plant the 9 Step Guide

Chinese Money Plant

Pilea peperomioides 

Learn how to care for Chinese money plant along with its history and classification details.

Hardiness Zone: 10
Soil Type: Well draining, rich, 6.0 – 7.0 pH
Sun Exposure: Indirect light, bright
Annual or Perennial: Perennial
Type: Succulent


History: Chinese money plant is native to the Yunnan Province of China. As legend has it, in 1946 the Norwegian missionary Agnar Espergren brought the plant back home from China and shared cuttings among his friends. To this day, the Chinese money plant is easiest to find in Scandinavia, where it is very popular.

Money Tree leaves should be a healthy and vibrant green.

How to Care for Chinese Money Plant

Common questions and details on how to care for Chinese money plant.

How do I plant Chinese money plant?

The Chinese money plant prefers a well-draining potting soil, and a pot with drainage holes is necessary. The soil needs to mostly dry out between waterings, with more watering required in warmer, sunnier weather. If the leaves start to look slightly droopy, that’s a sign that the plant needs water.

Average room humidity is fine, however, if you find the edges of your leaves are crisp or ‘burning’ you should raise the humidity levels. Prime temperature for the Chinese money plant is 13°C to 30°C. Watch for temperature swings.

When is the best time to plant?

The best time to plant Chinese money plant is in early spring.

How do I propagate Chinese money plant?

Carefully cut the long leaf stem off a plant. Put the cutting into a glass of water. When roots have formed, gently handle so as to not break them. Pot them up by making a hole and placing roots carefully into fresh potting mix.

Can I grow Chinese money plant in a pot?

Yes, you can grow Chinese money plant in a pot.

How much should I water Chinese money plant?

Chinese money plant likes to only be watered when dry.

When do Chinese money plant bloom?

Chinese money plant will bloom in the spring.

Should I plant any companion plants?

Chinese money plants grow well with monsteras, peperomias, and begonias.

What are the health benefits of the Chinese money plant?

Money plants add value to a healthy lifestyle by removing airborne pollutants from indoor air, such as benzene, carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, and xylene. The air in the room with the money plant is known to have more oxygen & helps in easy breathing.

What are some special features?

Money plants add value to a healthy lifestyle by removing airborne pollutants from indoor air.

Chinese Money Plant Meaning

It was originally believed to bring good luck, money, and fortune to its owner. Because the large, circular leaves stack on top of each other, they look like coins. This is where the idea of money comes from.

A beautiful money plant is like having a friend in the house.