Pilea Crinkle

The Creeping Charlie or Crinkle Pilea, is a perennial which grows like a weed or groundcover outdoors. A great ornamental plant as its green, spade like leaves have a ridged feel with scalloped edges.

• Botanical Name: Pilea nummulariifolia

• Common Names: Creeping Charlie, Crinkle

Here are some key characteristics of Pilea ‘Crinkle’:

1. Appearance: Pilea ‘Crinkle’ is named for its distinctive crinkled or corrugated leaves, which give it a unique texture and appearance. The leaves are typically small to medium-sized and have deeply serrated edges, creating an interesting visual effect. The foliage is a vibrant shade of green, and the crinkled texture adds depth and dimension to the plant’s overall appearance.
2. Origin: The exact origins of Pilea ‘Crinkle’ are not widely documented, but it is believed to be a cultivated variety developed for its ornamental value. It is a selected form or hybrid of Pilea involucrata, which is native to regions of Central and South America.
3. Cultural Requirements: Pilea ‘Crinkle’ prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions. It thrives in well-draining soil and benefits from regular watering to keep the soil evenly moist. Like many Pilea species, it is sensitive to overwatering and should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings. It prefers moderate to high humidity levels, making it well-suited for terrarium environments.
4. Propagation: This plant can be easily propagated from stem cuttings. Simply take a cutting with several nodes and remove the lower leaves. Place the cutting in a pot with moist potting mix or in a glass of water until roots develop.
5. Uses: Pilea ‘Crinkle’ is commonly used as a decorative accent in indoor gardens, terrariums, and tropical plant displays. Its unique crinkled foliage adds texture and interest to any space, and its compact growth habit makes it suitable for small containers or hanging baskets.
6. Maintenance: This plant generally requires minimal maintenance, although it may benefit from occasional pruning to control its growth and encourage bushier, more compact growth. Regularly removing any dead or yellowing foliage can help keep the plant looking healthy and vibrant.

Overall, Pilea ‘Crinkle’ is a charming and distinctive plant with unique foliage that adds visual interest to any indoor garden or tropical display. With proper care, it can thrive as a decorative accent in a variety of settings.