How to Care for the UFO Plant Indoors: Light, Watering & Growth Tips

Introduction: What is a UFO Plant?

The UFO Plant—also known as the Chinese Money Plant, Pancake Plant, Coin Plant, or by its scientific name Pilea Peperomioides—is one of the most beloved and unique houseplants today. Its distinct round, coin-shaped leaves and upright growth habit have earned it nicknames across cultures. Whether you're a beginner gardener or a plant enthusiast looking to add feng shui energy to your home, this indoor plant is low-maintenance and visually delightful.

In this care guide, we’ll break down exactly how to care for your UFO Plant, from watering schedules to lighting needs, so you can grow a healthy, lush plant year-round.

UFO Plant Benefits & Cultural Significance

Beyond aesthetics, the UFO Plant carries symbolic and practical value:

• Feng Shui Benefits: Known to attract wealth and good fortune when placed in the southeast area of your home.
• Air-Purifying Properties: While not on NASA’s air purification list, it's still a great green addition to boost indoor ambiance.
• Gifting Tradition: The UFO Plant was historically passed along among friends and family, earning the nickname “Friendship Plant.”

Its playful shape and symbolism make it a meaningful gift and a conversation starter in any room.

How Big Do Chinese Money Plants Grow?

On average, a well-cared-for UFO Plant reaches about 12 to 18 inches in height and width. While it doesn’t grow rapidly, its rounded leaves can span up to 4 inches in diameter. With the right conditions and pruning, your plant can maintain a full, symmetrical shape and even produce baby offshoots (pups).

How Much Light Does a UFO Plant Need?

Light is one of the most important factors in keeping your Pilea happy. Here’s what it needs:

• Bright, indirect light is ideal — place it near an east- or north-facing window.
• Avoid direct midday sun, which can scorch the leaves.
• If your home has low natural light, supplement with an LED grow light like the AC Infinity Ionboard S24.

Rotate your plant every few days to promote even growth and avoid lopsided leaf development.

Watering Schedule & Humidity Tips

Overwatering is the #1 mistake most people make with UFO Plants. Here's how to do it right:

Watering Guidelines:

• Water when the top 1–2 inches of soil feels dry to the touch.
• In spring and summer, this may be once a week. In cooler months, reduce to every 10–14 days.
• Ensure pots have drainage holes to avoid root rot.

Humidity Needs:

Chinese Money Plants prefer moderate humidity levels (~40–60%). While not extremely fussy, dry air can lead to crispy leaf edges. To maintain proper humidity:

• Use a room humidifier like the Drop Air X Humidifier.
• Group plants together to create a micro-humidity zone.

Best Soil & Potting Setup for Pilea Peperomioides

Proper soil is crucial to support root health and prevent waterlogging.

• Use a well-draining mix like Roots Organics Original Potting Soil.
• Plant in breathable containers such as fabric grow bags with handles for easy movement.
• Avoid compacted or heavy soils like pure garden topsoil or clay.

How to Propagate and Grow a Healthy UFO Plant

One of the coolest things about the UFO Plant is how easily it reproduces. You’ll often see little pups or offsets growing at the base of the mother plant. Here's how to propagate:

1. Wait until pups are at least 2–3 inches tall with their own leaves.
2. Gently remove them using a clean knife, keeping some roots attached.
3. Place them in water or fresh potting soil until new roots establish.

This propagation method makes it fun and easy to share your plant with friends or expand your indoor garden.

Indoor Plant Tools & Product Recommendations

To make UFO plant care easy, here are some essentials to keep on hand:

• Full-spectrum LED grow light – to support light needs in low-light homes.
• Humidifier – to keep moisture levels ideal during winter.
• Fabric pots – breathable and reusable for healthy root development.
• Well-aerated potting soil – prevents water retention issues and promotes growth.

FAQ

Conclusion

The UFO Plant is a fun, forgiving, and feng shui-friendly addition to your indoor garden. With just a little attention to light, soil, and watering, you’ll have a thriving plant that brings greenery—and maybe even good fortune—into your home.

Ready to care for your Chinese Money Plant like a pro? Browse our full selection of indoor growing tools and accessories today to keep your space lush and healthy.