Pilea hitchcockii

Dark Mystery Pilea, Dark Mystery

Moderate careTerrestrialNon-toxic15–30 cm

A compact, clump-forming herb from the cloud forests of Colombia and Ecuador, found at 1,600–1,800 m elevation. Its deeply toothed, lance-shaped leaves come in dark grey-green with bronze and silver tints. It needs high humidity and does best in cool-to-warm temperatures, making it a natural fit for closed terrariums. Non-toxic to pets and humans.

Build a terrarium with this plant

Care

Prefers high humidity, indirect light, with 14–27 °C, and reaches 30 cm at maturity.

Light

Indirect light(preferred)Shade tolerant

Humidity

High (60–80%)(preferred)Very high (80%+)

Temperature

10°C25°C40°C
14°C – 27°C

Soil

Well draining(preferred)Sphagnum mix

Moisture

Moist(preferred)

Soil pH

6 – 7.5

Propagation

Take stem cuttings just below a node or where aerial roots are forming. Root in moist sphagnum moss or water at warm temperatures with high humidity. Roots typically appear within 2–4 weeks.

Native range

Native to Northern South America and Western South America.

Appearance

Growth habit

ClumpingBushy

Leaf shape

LanceToothed

Leaf texture

Glossy

Frequently asked

Can Dark Mystery Pilea grow in a closed terrarium?

Yes. Dark Mystery Pilea prefers high (60–80%) humidity, which is what a closed terrarium provides, and tolerates indirect-light-loving conditions.

Does Dark Mystery Pilea need drainage?

Dark Mystery Pilea prefers a moist substrate. Drainage is helpful but not critical; consistent moisture matters more.

What humidity does Dark Mystery Pilea need?

Dark Mystery Pilea does best in high (60–80%) humidity.

Is Dark Mystery Pilea pet-safe?

Dark Mystery Pilea is considered non-toxic to common household pets.

How tall does Dark Mystery Pilea grow?

Dark Mystery Pilea typically reaches 15–30 cm at maturity.

How do you propagate Dark Mystery Pilea?

Dark Mystery Pilea can be propagated by stem cuttings.

References

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