Pilea pubescens 'Silver Tree' – Compact, Pet-Safe, and Packed with Silver Texture

Pilea pubescens 'Silver Tree' delivers bold silver striping over deep green, softly quilted leaves, creating a striking look from any angle. Its compact, creeping form makes it ideal for terrariums, desktops, and grouped indoor plant displays. Thanks to its easy care and non-toxic nature, it's a perfect match for beginners and pet owners alike.
This variety isn't a registered cultivar but a trade name used for a silver-striped form of Pilea pubescens, a tropical species native to Central America's shaded forest floors. Under the right light, its reflective foliage really stands out — making it a fresh and unusual choice for small-space plant styling.


Why You'll Love Pilea pubescens 'Silver Tree'
 
Unique silver central stripe on deep green foliage with a quilted texture
 
Stays small – ideal for terrariums, narrow shelves, or windowsills
 
Non-toxic to pets and people – safe for every room
 
Fast-growing and very easy to propagate from stem cuttings
 
Thrives in indirect light – no direct sun needed to look good


Botanical Profile: Facts at a Glance
 
Botanical name:Pilea pubescens 'Silver Tree' (trade name)
 
Taxonomic authority: Liebmann, described in 1851
 
Family: Urticaceae
 
Natural habitat: Shaded, humid lowland forests of Central America
 
Growth form: Creeping to bushy, evergreen perennial
 
Indoor size: Reaches 20–30 cm in both height and spread
 
Toxicity: Confirmed non-toxic to cats, dogs, and humans


How to Care for Pilea 'Silver Tree' Indoors
 
Light: Bright, indirect light is ideal; avoid direct sun, which may bleach the silver stripe
 
Watering: Water when the top 2 cm of substrate is dry; avoid letting soil stay soggy
 
Humidity: Prefers 60–80% – especially in dry indoor climates or heated rooms
 
Temperature: Best between 18–24 °C; protect from cold drafts and sudden drops
 
Soil: Use a peat-free, airy mix with coco coir, perlite, and compost
 
Feeding: Apply diluted liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during active growth
 
Repotting: Every 1–2 years or when roots become crowded
 
Pot type: Choose a well-draining pot with holes – plastic or glazed ceramic work well


Pruning and Propagation Tips
 
Stem cuttings root fast in moist soil or water – no rooting hormone needed
 
Pinch back tips regularly to maintain a compact shape and bushy growth
 
Remove old or yellowing leaves at the base to encourage healthy new shoots


Troubleshooting: Common Issues and Solutions
 
Leggy stems: Move to a brighter spot with indirect light to tighten growth
 
Leaf fade or bleaching: Caused by too much direct sun – switch to filtered light
 
Brown tips: Usually from dry air – boost humidity or group with other plants
 
Yellowing leaves: Often a result of overwatering or poor drainage
 
Pests: May attract spider mites or mealybugs in very dry air – increase humidity and inspect often


From the Wild to Your Shelf: Habitat Insights
Pilea pubescens originates in humid, shaded forest floors across Central America. These environments are consistently warm with filtered light and high ambient moisture — a setting that explains the plant’s preference for indirect light, moist but airy soil, and good humidity. Recreate these conditions indoors, and you'll see steady growth and vibrant foliage year-round.


Etymology of the Name
 
Pilea: From Latin pilus, meaning “hair” – referring to fine hairs found on many species
 
pubescens: Latin for “downy” or “soft-haired,” describing the velvety texture of the leaves and stems
 
Described by: Frederik Michael Liebmann, published in 1851


Questions About Pilea 'Silver Tree'?
Can it grow in lower light?Yes, but growth may become more leggy and the silver stripe less defined. Brighter indirect light gives best results.
How fast does it grow?It's a relatively quick grower in good conditions, especially when humidity stays high and trimming encourages bushiness.
Is this safe for pets?Yes — Pilea pubescens is non-toxic to pets and children, making it a safe addition to any room.


Add a Silver Spark to Your Jungle
Bring home a plant that stands out — compact, unique, and safe for pets. Pilea pubescens 'Silver Tree' offers easy care and showy texture in one small package. Shop now and elevate your indoor setup with silver foliage that shines without fuss.