The Friendship Plant's texture is sure to catch the eye straight away. Its bumpy leaves look velvety, and its bright green is contrasted by the maroon shades in the middle of each leaf. Give it a humid spot, with bright light and not too much water, and it will reward you with bright, colourful growth and attention-stealing texture. And why is it called a friendship plant? Because it is easy to propagate and share with your friends! Just divide offshoots at the root and pot into their own space, and you've got a whole new plant to share!
Scientific Name Pilea mollis 'Moon Valley' (soft plant with leaves like felt caps, variety: Moon Valley)
Common Name Friendship Plant, Moon Valley Pilea
Origin Native to Central and South America Light Bright, indirect light is best for your Friendship plant, though it can cope with a slightly shadier spot too.
Water Allow the top third of the soil to dry out between waters; as the plant grows quite low down, its leaves can easily become too soggy and rot if the soil is kept wet! Reduce watering further in winter.
Humidity This plant likes consistent high levels of humidity; misting or a pebble tray will be very helpful, especially in winter when heaters are operating. If the air is too dry you might notice the edges of the leaves going brown and crispy.
Soil Use a well-draining soil; added perlite and sand will help keep it draining well. Repot once or twice a year as the plant grows.
Food Feed every four waters in the growing season, reduce to every six in autumn and winter. Temperature Average household temperatures of about 18-24°C are fine- make sure it doesn't drop below 12°C in winter.
Pet-safe Yes, but too much nibbling won't be good for pets, small humans or the plant!
Sprouts Top Tips The most common issues with the Friendship Plant come down to water: crispy brown edges mean it's not humid enough; crispy dying leaves are often caused by too little water; and the most common is overwatering, which can cause the oldest leaves to rapidly yellow and die.
We have launched our first (hopefully monthly) ‘Letter from the Founder’ blog post. I talk about a string of bad luck, from water gushing from various ceilings in my life to a break-in, and also reflect on the incredible work we have done to win two awards earlier this year. I look ahead to what’s coming up in August, projects we are working on with our clients, and some thoughts about the rest of the year. And I give an insight into my brain, why I am who I am and why I’m so thankful for all the opportunities, passion and excitement that running Sprouts has given me as a founder and as a woman.