How to identify Clearweed (Pilea pumila)

How to identify Clearweed (Pilea pumila)

Clearweed is characterized by its translucent and somewhat shiny leaves that suggest a delicate texture. These leaves are typically ovate with toothed edges and reach about 1.5 to 3 inches (3.8 to 7.6 cm) in length. Stems are smooth and succumb to a similar translucence, making the plant's overall appearance somewhat ethereal. The modest greenish-white flowers of clearweed are easily overlooked, composed of small clusters that grow in the axils of leaves. The growth habit of clearweed is generally upright, reaching up to 2 feet (60 cm) tall, lending to its unassuming presence in shaded, moist environments.

Lifespan: Annual

Plant Type: Herb

Leaf Type: Deciduous

Quickly Identify Clearweed

Leaves are ovate, translucent, and shiny, measuring 1.5 to 3 inches (3.8 to 7.6 cm) in length.

White-green flowers lack petals, less than 1/8 inch (3.2 mm) in size, blooming in mid-summer.

Fruits are green with black stripes, oblong-shaped achenes measuring 0.07 to 0.1 inches (1.8 to 2.5 mm).

Opposite leaves are dark green, hairless, with serrate margins and distinct venation pattern.

Petioles are long, 1 inch (2.5 cm) or more, enhancing the visibility of the leaves.

Detailed Traits of Clearweed

Leaf Features

Clearweed features dark green, simple, opposite leaves that are ovate in shape and completely hairless. The leaves have serrate margins and exhibit a distinctive venation pattern with three prominent major veins complemented by netted side veins. The undersides of the leaves are nearly white, creating a striking contrast. Petioles are relatively long, measuring 1 inch (2.5 cm) or more, enhancing the prominence of the leaves on the plant.

Leaf Shape

Ovate

Leaf Base

Circular

Leaf Arrangement

Opposite

Leaf Apex

Acuminate

Leaf Texture

Membranous

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Flower Features

The flowers of clearweed are greenish-white to yellow and lack petals, typically measuring less than 1/8 inch (3.2 mm) in size. They bloom from mid-summer to fall, forming in racemes about 1 inch (2.5 cm) long, emerging from the leaf axils. These flowers are wind-pollinated and have a subtle, understated appearance that blends with the foliage.

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Fruit Features

The fruit of clearweed is characterized by tiny, lightweight achenes that are adapted for wind dispersal. Each achene features a distinct appearance, being green in color with prominent black stripes. These fruits are designed to be easily carried by the breeze, allowing for widespread distribution. The texture of the fruit surface is smooth, and their shape is typically oblong, with slight variations that may occur naturally. The dimensions are minute, with each achene measuring about 0.07 to 0.1 inches (1.8 to 2.5 mm) in length, which contributes to their ability to drift on the wind.

Learn About the Fruit Glossary

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Clearweed and Their Similar Plants

Artillery plant vs. Clearweed: What's The Difference?

The artillery plant is often utilized as a groundcover or an ornamental in many landscapes. It's commonly named the "artillery plant" because the males generally produce pollen in an explosive way. It grows best in a humid environment in partial shade or indirect sunlight. It's a particularly popular plant in indoor rock gardens.

Aluminum plant vs. Clearweed: What's The Difference?

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Creeping charlie vs. Clearweed: What's The Difference?

Creeping charlie (Pilea nummulariifolia) is often grown as an ornamental for its bright green foliage. This creeping plant is suitable for terrariums, hanging baskets, rock gardens, and green walls. It is also grown as a soft ground cover in areas that don't receive intense sun, but be on your guard as it can quickly take over.

Friendship plant vs. Clearweed: What's The Difference?

Friendship plant is a charming houseplant native to South America. Its round, deeply textured leaves are a striking shade of green, accented with silver veins that shimmer in the light. The friendship plant is easy to care for and propagates quickly, making it a popular choice for sharing with friends. It is believed to bring good luck and positive energy to those who care for it, making it a delightful addition to any home.

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Key Facts About Clearweed

Attributes of Clearweed

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

20 cm to 50 cm

Spread

6 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2.5 cm

Flower Color

Green

White

Yellow

Gold

Fruit Color

Brown

Green

Stem Color

Green

Yellow

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Scientific Classification of Clearweed

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Roses, elms, figs, and allies

Family

Nettle

Genus

Clearweed

Species

Clearweed (Pilea pumila)

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Distribution Map of Clearweed

Clearweed is native to the temperate regions of Eastern Asia. Over time, it has been introduced and cultivated in various other parts of the world. Its ability to adapt to a range of environments has facilitated its spread beyond its native range, allowing it to establish itself in diverse regions.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

Learn More About the Clearweed

A Comprehensive Guide to Clearweed How to Grow and Care for Clearweed