The genus Pilea extends across almost all continents.

Pileas occur in the tropics but are absent in Australia. There are many different varieties but they are often very easy to care for. Elephant ear 'Pilea peperomioides' and also sometimes called parasol pilea is perhaps the most popular species of pilea.

Elephant ear, pilea in a nutshell.

Elephant ear is a grateful plant and actually thrives much drier than you might think. The umbrella plant is not a tropical plant but comes from relatively dry areas in China's Yunnan province. This makes the elephant ear a plant that can tolerate drought quite well. Soil for Elephant ear should be well-drained but relatively fine-grained because the roots are very thin.

Pilea peperomioides grows quite slowly and rarely needs to be repotted. If you take care of your elephant ear, it can become a large plant, even with a trunk. Pilea peperomioides can also bloom in the summer with small white flowers.

Other popular pilea varieties.

Pilea mollis: A type of pilea that is sometimes called moon valley because of its deeply notched leaves. This pilea is also easy to care for and is a favorite with most people on planet Earth. As a houseplant, this pilea can thrive in indirect light and a porous potting soil. Cuttings can be taken through the many shoots that come from the base of the plant.

Pilea peperomioides 'Mojito': A variegated variant of the common Elephant Ear. The leaves are variegated with lime and green in various shapes. The pattern on the leaves is often perceived as very beautiful and almost marbled. It gives the plant a slightly more lively impression than the only green leaves. An unusual pilea for those looking for unique plants.

In short, pilea are cheap, easy to care for, and beautiful plants. With a little love, the leaves can stay green and grow big. Buy pilea online!