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Aluminum plant

How to identify Aluminum plant (Pilea cadierei)

Aluminum plant

Aluminum plant showcases glistening dark green leaves with silver patches, a testament to its common nickname 'Aluminum Plant'. Each leaf, usually around 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) in length, is oval with a slightly pointed tip and has deeply embossed veins that accentuate the metallic sheen. The stems are thin but sturdy, often cascading if not pinched back for compact growth. This foliage-centric specimen thrives indoors under specific conditions, favoring moderate moisture and well-draining peaty substrates.

Lifespan

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type

Plant Type: Herb

Leaf Type

Leaf Type: Evergreen

Quickly Identify Aluminum plant

1

Leaves are dark green with distinct silver patches, oval, 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) long, deeply veined.

2

Stems are thin but sturdy, may cascade if not pruned, greenish or pink-tinged, 1/8 inch (3-4 mm) thick.

3

Flowers are small, greenish-white, <0.1 inch (2-3 mm), grow in clusters, lack scent.

4

Fruits are small, dry, egg-shaped achenes, compressed, 1.5 mm (0.06 inches) long, enclosed in indehiscent structure.

5

Overall plant prefers moderate moisture, well-draining peaty soil, compact growth when pinched back.

Aluminum plantAluminum plantAluminum plantAluminum plantAluminum plant

Detailed Traits of Aluminum plant

Leaf Features

The leaves of aluminum plant are elliptic to obovate, measuring approximately 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 cm) in length. They feature an irregularly toothed margin and two prominent midribs. The dark green foliage showcases four rows of distinctive silvery patches arranged between major veins, giving the leaves a textured and variegated appearance. These physical characteristics make the leaves of aluminum plant easily identifiable and visually striking.

Leaf Shape

Ovate ,
Obovate

Aluminum plant Leaf Shape image
Leaf Base

Cuneate ,
Circular

Leaf Arrangement

Opposite

Leaf Apex

Acuminate

Leaf Margin

Undulate

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Flower Features

The flowers of aluminum plant are small and relatively inconspicuous. Typically, they are greenish-white in color and grow in clusters. Each flower is less than 0.1 inch (2-3 mm) in size. The petals are small and arranged in a simple structure, without a pronounced scent. Blooming occurs mainly in late winter to early spring, contributing to the plant's overall foliage display rather than standing out on their own.

Aluminum plant Flower image
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Stem Features

The stem of aluminum plant is greenish or pink-tinged, cylindrical, and measures roughly 1/8 inch (3-4 mm) in diameter. It's notably smooth with even, slender branching patterns. Younger stems may have a more pronounced pink hue while maturing stems take on a robust green tone. The texture is firm yet flexible, providing support to the overall structure. The nodes where leaves emerge are slightly swollen, adding to its unique appearance and aiding in the plant's identification.

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Fruit Features

The fruits of aluminum plant are small, dry, and remain encased within an indehiscent structure known as an achene. These egg-shaped fruits are notably compressed, giving them a slightly flattened appearance. Each achene measures approximately 1.5 mm (0.06 inches) in length. Their texture and firmness contribute to the protective function, safeguarding the seed within until conditions are favorable for germination.

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Key Facts About Aluminum plant

Attributes of Aluminum plant
Spread
21 cm
Leaf Color
Green
Silver
Gray
Flower Size
1.8 mm to 2 mm
Flower Color
Silver
Gray
Green
Pink
White
Fruit Color
Brown
Stem Color
Green
Pink
Leaf type
Evergreen
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Scientific Classification of Aluminum plant

Family
Nettle
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Species
Aluminum plant (Pilea cadierei)
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Distribution Map of Aluminum plant

Aluminum plant is a plant primarily native to Southeast Asia, flourishing particularly in regions like Southeastern China and Vietnam. Outside its natural habitat, aluminum plant has been introduced across a variety of major regions including tropical Latin America and the Caribbean, as well as parts of South Asia and Oceania. The plant is also widely cultivated beyond its native and introduced ranges, evidencing its adaptability and popularity.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
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