The Chinese money plant is, generally speaking, relatively easy to grow as a houseplant in the UK.
However, there are a number of problems that can arise if it is not provided with the optimal environmental conditions and cared for in the right way.
Though certain other pests and diseases may be to blame, these are by far the most common causes and you should make sure that these are eliminated as potential causes before you explore further alternative problems.
The Chinese money plant, also known as the missionary plant, lefse plant, pancake plant, UFO plant, or mirror grass plant, is a popular and easy to care for indoor plant. Its round, coin-shaped leaves are its most distinguishing characteristic.
However, you may notice the leaves on your Chinese money plant beginning to curl or droop. This distorts the beautiful flat shape of the leaves and indicates your plant is stressed.
Here are the 9 most common causes for Chinese money plant leaves curling and how to fix them
1. Improper Watering
Overwatering and underwatering are two of the main reasons Chinese money plant leaves curl
Overwatering causes the leaves to curl outward away from the center. The excess moisture causes the cells in the leaves to expand. Underwatering makes the leaves droop and curl inward toward the center as the plant tries to prevent water loss.
Fixes:
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Water only when the top inch of soil is dry. Chinese money plants prefer to dry out between waterings.
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Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
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Use your finger to test soil moisture rather than on a schedule.
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If overwatered, allow soil to dry out completely before watering again.
2. Low Humidity
Chinese money plants prefer 40-50% humidity. In dry indoor air, the leaf edges and tips curl and turn brown from moisture loss.
Fixes:
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Group plants together to create a microclimate.
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Use a humidifier or pebble tray.
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Mist leaves occasionally.
3. Too Much Sun
Direct hot sunlight scorches the leaves, causing burnt spots and curling.
Fixes:
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Move to bright, indirect light like an east or north facing window.
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Filter harsh southern light with curtains.
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Avoid direct sun shining directly on the leaves.
4. Drafts and Temperature Changes
Sudden temperature drops or cold drafts from vents or open windows can make Chinese money plant leaves curl.
Fixes:
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Keep between 65-80°F (18-27°C).
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Avoid placing near AC vents or drafty windows.
5. Low Light
Insufficient light causes weak growth and outer leaves to curl outward seeking more sun.
Fixes:
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Rotate plant to evenly distribute light.
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Place in east or north facing window.
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Use a grow light to supplement natural light.
6. Nutrient Deficiency
Lack of nutrients like nitrogen, calcium, and magnesium makes leaves curl downward with yellowing or spots.
Fixes:
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Fertilize monthly in spring and summer with balanced liquid fertilizer.
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Repot in fresh potting mix every 2-3 years.
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Test pH to ensure optimal range.
7. Root Problems
Root issues like rot from overwatering restrict nutrient and water uptake making leaves curl and wilt.
Fixes:
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Repot if roots are crowded or rotten.
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Allow soil to dry between waterings.
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Ensure pot has drainage holes.
8. Pests
Spider mites, mealybugs, and other pests suck juices from the leaves, causing them to curl and distort.
Fixes:
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Wipe leaves with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
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Remove heavily infested leaves.
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quarantine plant away from others if infestation is severe.
9. Older leaves naturally curl
As lower older leaves age, it’s natural for them to yellow, curl, and drop. Focus on the new growth.
What to do:
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Prune old leaves to direct energy to new growth.
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As long as newer leaves look healthy, this is normal.
How to Prevent Chinese Money Plant Leaves Curling
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Provide bright indirect sunlight. East or north facing windows are ideal.
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Water thoroughly only when the top inch of soil is dry.
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Keep humidity around 40-50% with a humidifier or pebble tray.
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Avoid temperature extremes and drafts.
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Feed monthly during growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
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Inspect regularly for pests. Quarantine new plants.
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Ensure pot has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
With the right care, your Chinese money plant will reward you with beautiful flat, round leaves. Consistent and proper care for its light, water, humidity, and nutrient needs will keep those coin-shaped leaves looking their best.
Watering Issues
Leaves that cup outwards are frequently a sign that you have watered too much and need to cut down on how much water you use or the frequency at which you water.
However, leaves may also curl and droop if you have not provided enough water for your plant.
Addressing any problems with your watering could help tackle the problem.
This is a plant that will typically need watering weekly most of the year – but fortnightly should suffice in the winter months.
If you’re ever unsure, simply place your finger 2-3cm into the growing medium and check for moisture – only water when this has dried out.
Leaves may sometimes return to normal, but sometimes, you will need to look to new leaves to see whether these curl too.
If they do not, this is a sign that you have adequately addressed the problem.
“I always advise allowing Pilea to almost completely dry out,” shares Master Horticulturist Dan Ori.
“You may notice stems going slightly limp or leaves losing lustre, this is the time to water if you have stuck your finger in the compost down to your knuckle and it is still dry.
“Take the pot with drainage holes out of its decorative pot cover and water until soaked through in the kitchen sink, then allow it to drain for five minutes before returning it to its pot cover and spot in the house.
“If it is struggling to soak up water, you can submerge it slowly above the pot level until bubbles stop escaping. You may need to use your hands to stop losing compost from floating out.”
Poor Drainage
Even if you have not overwatered, you may see doming on the leaves due to waterlogging or poor drainage.
You may have provided the right amount of water, but that water might not be able to drain away freely.
The roots may be blocking drainage holes in the base of a pot, if the plant has become root bound, and it may need repotting.
Remember that these are plants that require free-draining conditions, so always make sure these are met before looking for other solutions.
How to care for a Pilea Peperomioides Plant | Tips and Tricks to grow better leaves!
FAQ
Why are my Chinese money plant leaves curling?
The entire reason pilea leaves curl inward is because it wants more light than it’s getting. If they curl the other way, it’s because it gets more sun than it would ideally like. This is what makes it such a good plant for relatively new plant caregivers – it’s very visual in telling you exactly what it wants!
How do you fix curling leaves on a money tree?
The sweet spot for these green buddies is somewhere between 65°-75° F (18 – 23° C). In the same vein, low humidity can leave your Money Tree parched, causing its leaves to dry out and curl. These plants are humidity junkies, so keep them happy with some extra moisture.
What does an overwatered Chinese money plant look like?
Curling downward or forming domes. This is usually a sign of overwatering. As the roots rot, the leaves become limp, unable to hold their structure.Feb 28, 2023
How often should I water my Chinese money plant?
Chinese Money Plant needs 0.8 cups of water every 9 days when it doesn’t get direct sunlight and is potted in a 5.0″ pot.