Scientific Name — Pilea glauca 'Aquamarine'
Common Name(s) — Baby Tears or Silver Sprinkles Plant
Plant Family — Urticaceae
Background
Pilea glauca ‘Aquamarine’ is a low-growing tropical perennial native to the rainforests of Central and South America. Where it is endemic, it grows as a creeping groundcover.
At home, it is ideal for terrariums and hanging baskets. It grows well both indoors and outdoors, but should be kept inside once temperatures drop below 40 ºF.
Pilea glauca is a member of the nettle family, which contains many plants known for their medicinal value. However, this plant is not known for any such benefits.
Growth Requirements
Sun
Pilea glauca ‘Aquamarine’ prefers medium to bright indirect light. Avoid direct sun. Light from an east- or north-facing window is ideal.
Temperature/ Humidity
These tropical plants prefer warm temperatures and high humidity. They are cold-intolerant and will start to decline at temperatures below 40 ºF.
High humidity will help Baby Tears grow well. Mist plants daily or place them atop a tray of wet pebbles to improve ambient moisture. Because of their humidity requirements, these plants are great for terrariums.
Water
Keep soil lightly moist. Pilea glauca ‘Aquamarine’ thrives in consistent moisture.
In the winter, when growth slows significantly, reduce the frequency of watering. Allow the soil to dry out completely before watering thoroughly.
Soil/Roots
Pilea glauca ‘Aquamarine’ prefers airy, well-drained soil that retains moisture well. A high-quality, all-purpose potting mix would work great.
Soil can be amended with coco coir up to 25% to improve texture and drainage. Compost, up to 25%, is another amendment you can add to boost soil nutrient quality.
Flowering
Pilea glauca produces small, inconspicuous flowers. Flowers can bloom year-round, though these plants rarely flower indoors.
Fertilization
Baby Tears plants do not require much fertilization. To give their soil a boost, fertilize them once monthly using a balanced fertilizer diluted at half strength.
Fertilize during the spring and summer only. Cease fertilization during the winter.
Propagation
Pilea glauca plants propagate reliably from stem cuttings. Press stem cuttings into the soil, allowing them to make firm contact.
Mist them daily. You can also cover them with a clear container, such as a terrarium dome or plastic bag, to maintain humidity until roots start to form. Then water as usual.
Health
Diseases and Pests
Pilea glauca is not especially susceptible to diseases or pests. Because they like humidity and moisture, root rot is a concern and is more likely when the plant is overwatered.
Keep an eye out for common houseplant pests such as scale, aphids, and mealybugs.
Maintenance (pruning, legginess, repotting)
Little maintenance is required to keep these plants happy. Prune stems that have gotten leggy to encourage growth and fullness.
Pilea glauca likes to be a little rootbound. Repotting should only be necessary once every one to two years. When repotting, select a container that is one to two inches wider in diameter to allow the plant additional space to grow.
Toxicity
These plants have no known toxicity to humans or animals.
FAQs
How do I know if I am overwatering my Baby Tears?
If the soil stays wet for several days after watering or the leaves start to turn yellow or drop, your plant may be getting too much water. Let the soil dry before watering again, and be especially mindful during winter.
Why is my Pilea glauca looking sparse?
If you notice stems becoming long and spindly — with larger gaps between the leaves — that’s called “legginess”. It’s often the result of insufficient light. While Baby Tears prefer indirect light, it’s important to place them near a bright window.
Should I repot my Pilea glauca every year?
Let your plant be your guide. Because Pilea glauca ‘Aquamarine’ is happier being a bit rootbound (as opposed to being in a pot that’s too large), you may only need to replant every two years.
