9 Proven Chinese Money Plant Benefits (Feng Shui, Health & More)

The Chinese Money Plant (Pilea peperomioides), also known as “UFO Plant” or “Pancake Plant,” has captured the hearts of plant enthusiasts worldwide with its distinctive coin-shaped leaves and impressive array of benefits. This comprehensive guide explores nine evidence-backed advantages of incorporating this low-maintenance houseplant into your home or office space, from its air-purifying capabilities to its powerful Feng Shui symbolism.

Native to the Yunnan Province of southern China, the Chinese Money Plant has a rich cultural history dating back centuries. Its unique appearance, combined with its numerous practical benefits, makes it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced plant owners. Whether you’re looking to improve your indoor air quality, attract prosperity, or simply add a touch of natural beauty to your space, this remarkable plant delivers on all fronts.

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1. Stunning Decorative Appeal: Elevating Your Interior Design

The Chinese Money Plant’s glossy, round leaves resemble tiny mirrors or coins, creating an immediate visual impact in any setting. These distinctive leaves, which can reach up to 4 inches in diameter, grow on long, slender stems that create a layered, sculptural effect. This unique growth pattern makes it an excellent choice for adding dimension to your indoor spaces.

Interior designers particularly value this plant for its versatility in various design aesthetics. Its minimalist look perfectly complements Scandinavian and modern urban jungle themes, while its vibrant green color adds life to more traditional decor. The plant’s upright growth habit makes it ideal for small spaces, as it doesn’t spread horizontally like many other houseplants.

For maximum visual impact, consider grouping several Chinese Money Plants of different sizes together or placing a single specimen in a decorative pot that contrasts with its bright green foliage. The plant’s architectural quality also makes it an excellent choice for terrariums and dish gardens, where it can serve as a focal point among smaller plants.

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2. Natural Air Purifier: Breathing Easier with Pilea Peperomioides

While not included in NASA’s original Clean Air Study, recent research suggests that the Chinese Money Plant possesses significant air-purifying capabilities. A 2019 study published in the Journal of Environmental Management found that plants in the Urticaceae family (to which Pilea belongs) are effective at absorbing common indoor air pollutants including formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene.

These harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are commonly found in household items such as furniture, carpeting, cleaning products, and synthetic building materials. Long-term exposure to these pollutants has been linked to various health issues including headaches, respiratory problems, and even certain types of cancer.

The Chinese Money Plant works through a process called phytoremediation, where its leaves absorb airborne toxins and either store them in plant tissues or break them down into harmless substances. The plant’s large leaf surface area makes it particularly efficient at this process. For optimal air-purifying benefits, place one medium-sized Chinese Money Plant per 100 square feet of living space.

While no single plant can completely purify the air in your home, incorporating multiple Chinese Money Plants along with other air-purifying species can significantly improve your indoor air quality. To learn more about creating a comprehensive air-purifying plant collection, check out our guide to top air-purifying houseplants for your home.

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3. Easy to Care For: The Perfect Plant for Beginners and Busy Lifestyles

One of the most celebrated benefits of the Chinese Money Plant is its undemanding nature, making it an ideal choice for novice gardeners and those with busy schedules. This resilient plant has adapted to thrive in typical indoor conditions with minimal intervention required. For a complete overview, see our beginner’s guide to Chinese Money Plant care.

Light Requirements

The Chinese Money Plant thrives in bright, indirect light but demonstrates remarkable adaptability to various light conditions. An east-facing window that receives morning sun is ideal, as it provides the bright light the plant loves without the intense afternoon rays that can scorch its leaves. If you only have a south or west-facing window available, place the plant a few feet away from the window or filter the light with a sheer curtain. For more detailed insights, read our Chinese Money Plant light needs guide.

While the plant can tolerate lower light conditions, insufficient light may result in leggy growth, smaller leaves, and a less compact appearance. If you notice your plant stretching toward the light source, it’s a sign it needs more light. Conversely, if the leaves begin to develop brown spots or edges, it may be receiving too much direct sunlight.

Watering Needs

The Chinese Money Plant prefers the “soak and dry” method of watering, which mimics the natural rainfall patterns of its native habitat. Water the plant thoroughly when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry to the touch. When watering, continue until water flows freely from the drainage holes, ensuring that the entire root ball is moistened. For a complete walkthrough of proper watering techniques, see our complete guide to watering houseplants.

Allow the plant to drain completely before returning it to its decorative pot or saucer, as standing water can lead to root rot. During the growing season (spring and summer), this typically means watering every 7-10 days, while in the dormant winter months, you may only need to water every 2-3 weeks.

Overwatering is the most common cause of problems with Chinese Money Plants. Signs of overwatering include yellowing leaves, a mushy stem base, and wilting despite moist soil. If you suspect overwatering, reduce watering frequency and ensure the pot has adequate drainage.

Soil and Potting

Chinese Money Plants require well-draining, organic-rich soil to thrive. A high-quality potting mix formulated for houseplants, amended with additional perlite or coarse sand (about 20% of the total mix), provides the perfect balance of moisture retention and drainage. Some enthusiasts also add a small amount of orchid bark to improve aeration. For a full breakdown of soil types, see our Chinese Money Plant soil guide.

When it comes to pot selection, choose a container with drainage holes that is slightly larger than the plant’s root ball. A pot that is too large can hold excess moisture and lead to root problems. Terra cotta pots are an excellent choice as they allow the soil to breathe and help prevent overwatering. Repot your Chinese Money Plant every 1-2 years or when you notice roots growing through the drainage holes. For a step-by-step tutorial, read our guide on how to repot your Pilea.

Fertilizing Routine

During the active growing season (spring and summer), feed your Chinese Money Plant monthly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. This regular feeding provides the nutrients necessary for robust growth and vibrant foliage. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to salt buildup in the soil and burned leaf edges. For more information, see our Chinese Money Plant fertilizer guide.

In the fall and winter, when the plant’s growth naturally slows, reduce fertilizing to every other month or suspend it altogether. Always water the plant before applying fertilizer to prevent root burn, and never fertilize a stressed or newly repotted plant.

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4. Feng Shui Wealth Symbol: Harnessing Prosperity Energy

In Chinese culture, the Chinese Money Plant holds significant importance in Feng Shui practices due to its coin-shaped leaves, which are believed to symbolize wealth, prosperity, and good fortune. The plant’s scientific name, Pilea peperomioides, may not hint at its financial significance, but its common names across various cultures—Money Plant, Pancake Plant, and Missionary Plant—all reference its distinctive round leaves that resemble coins. For a deeper dive into this topic, see our complete guide to Chinese Money Plant Feng Shui.

Feng Shui, an ancient Chinese practice of harmonizing individuals with their surrounding environment, emphasizes the flow of energy (Chi) throughout a space. According to Feng Shui principles, the Chinese Money Plant is particularly powerful for attracting wealth and abundance when placed in specific areas of your home or office.

Finding the Wealth Corner

The most auspicious location for your Chinese Money Plant is the southeast corner of your home or office, known in Feng Shui as the “wealth corner” or “money area.” This area corresponds to the Xun position in the Bagua, the energy map used in Feng Shui. To locate this area in your space, stand at the main entrance facing inward—the southeast corner will be to your back right. For more help finding the best spot, see our guide on the best place to put a Chinese Money Plant.

When placing your Chinese Money Plant in the wealth corner, ensure it’s healthy and vibrant, as a struggling plant can have the opposite effect on your finances. The plant should be positioned so that its leaves don’t touch walls or other objects, allowing energy to flow freely around it.

Enhancing Wealth Energy

To amplify the wealth-attracting properties of your Chinese Money Plant, consider these traditional Feng Shui enhancements:

• Place 3, 6, or 8 coins at the base of the plant. These numbers are considered particularly auspicious in Chinese culture. For added effect, use Chinese coins with a square hole in the center, tied together with a red ribbon.
• Wrap a red ribbon around the pot or plant itself. Red is considered an extremely lucky color in Chinese tradition and is believed to activate the wealth energy of the plant.
• Use a purple or gold pot, as these colors are associated with wealth and abundance in Feng Shui. If you prefer not to repot your plant, simply place it in a purple or gold decorative container.
• Place a small citrine crystal in the soil near the base of the plant. Citrine is known as the “merchant’s stone” and is believed to attract prosperity and success.

For businesses, placing a Chinese Money Plant near the cash register or financial records area is believed to enhance prosperity. In home offices, position the plant in the southeast corner of your desk to attract wealth in your career endeavors.

Remember that Feng Shui is about intention and energy flow. While placing your Chinese Money Plant in the wealth corner can help attract prosperity, combining this with positive financial habits and a mindset of abundance will yield the best results. For more detailed information on using plants in Feng Shui, explore our complete guide to Feng Shui plant placement.

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5. Effortless Propagation: Sharing the Wealth

One of the most rewarding aspects of owning a Chinese Money Plant is its ease of propagation. Unlike many houseplants that require specialized techniques or equipment to reproduce, the Chinese Money Plant naturally produces “pups” or “offsets”—small plantlets that emerge from the base of the mother plant or from underground runners. This characteristic not only makes propagation simple but also allows you to expand your collection or share plants with friends and family.

Understanding Plant Pups

Chinese Money Plant pups typically begin to appear when the mother plant reaches maturity, usually after about one year of growth. These offsets can emerge from the soil at the base of the main stem or occasionally from the roots slightly farther away. The pups start small but quickly develop their own root systems and leaves, eventually growing into full-sized plants.

A healthy Chinese Money Plant can produce multiple pups throughout the growing season, with some specimens generating ten or more offsets in a single year. This prolific reproduction is one reason the plant has become so popular among houseplant enthusiasts—it’s easy to create new plants without purchasing additional specimens.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide

Propagating Chinese Money Plant pups is a straightforward process that even beginners can master. Follow these steps for successful propagation:

1. Identify ready pups: Look for offsets that have developed at least 3-4 leaves and are approximately 2-3 inches tall. These pups are large enough to survive independently but still young enough to establish quickly in their new environment.
2. Prepare your tools: Use a clean, sharp knife or pair of scissors to separate the pup from the mother plant. Sterilize your cutting tool with rubbing alcohol before use to prevent the spread of disease.
3. Separate the pup: Gently dig around the base of the pup to expose its connection to the mother plant. You may notice that some pups have their own root system already developed, while others are still attached via underground runners. Cut the pup free, ensuring that you include a portion of the root system if possible.
4. Prepare the new container: Fill a small pot (2-3 inches in diameter) with well-draining potting mix. The same soil mixture used for the mother plant will work well for the pup.
5. Plant the pup: Create a small hole in the center of the potting mix and gently place the pup inside, ensuring that its roots are covered and the base of the stem is at the same level as it was when attached to the mother plant. Firm the soil around the pup to provide support.
6. Water and care: Water the newly planted pup thoroughly and place it in a location with bright, indirect light. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged for the first few weeks as the plant establishes itself.

Within 2-4 weeks, your propagated Chinese Money Plant should show signs of new growth, indicating that it has successfully established itself in its new container. At this point, you can gradually transition to the regular care routine outlined in section 3 of this guide. For a complete look at all the ways you can propagate, read our guide on 3 easy propagation methods.

Propagation not only allows you to expand your plant collection but also makes for thoughtful gifts. Consider potting propagated pups in decorative containers and sharing them with friends, family, or coworkers. The act of giving a plant believed to attract wealth and prosperity is considered especially auspicious in many cultures.

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6. Reduces Stress & Boosts Wellbeing: The Mental Health Benefits

In our increasingly fast-paced and technology-driven world, the Chinese Money Plant offers a natural antidote to stress and mental fatigue. Numerous scientific studies have demonstrated the positive psychological effects of incorporating plants into indoor environments, and the Chinese Money Plant, with its attractive appearance and easy care requirements, is particularly effective at promoting mental wellbeing.

The Science Behind Plant-Induced Stress Reduction

A groundbreaking study published in the Journal of Physiological Anthropology found that active interaction with indoor plants, including touching and smelling them, suppressed sympathetic nervous system activity (responsible for the “fight or flight” response) and promoted comfortable, relaxed feelings. The researchers concluded that indoor plants could be particularly effective in reducing physiological and psychological stress.

Another study conducted at Washington State University found that participants working in an environment with plants demonstrated a 12% faster reaction time on computer tasks and were less stressed (as measured by blood pressure readings) compared to those in a plant-free environment. The researchers attributed these benefits to plants’ ability to improve air quality and provide a connection to nature, even in indoor settings.

The Chinese Money Plant, with its distinctive appearance, encourages mindful interaction. The act of caring for the plant—watering, rotating for even growth, and observing new leaf development—can serve as a form of meditation, redirecting attention away from stressors and promoting a state of mindfulness.

Creating a Calming Environment

The visual appeal of the Chinese Money Plant contributes significantly to its stress-reducing properties. The plant’s vibrant green color has been shown to have a calming effect on the human mind. Color psychology research indicates that green is the most restful color for the human eye, helping to reduce anxiety and promote a sense of balance and harmony.

Furthermore, the rounded shape of the Chinese Money Plant’s leaves is believed to evoke feelings of safety and comfort. According to principles of environmental psychology, curved, organic shapes are generally perceived as more calming and welcoming than sharp, angular forms. This makes the Chinese Money Plant an excellent choice for creating a relaxing atmosphere in bedrooms, living areas, and workspaces.

For maximum stress-reducing benefits, consider creating a “plant corner” or small indoor garden featuring multiple Chinese Money Plants of varying sizes. This grouping not only enhances the visual impact but also increases the air-purifying benefits, creating a healthier environment that supports mental wellbeing.

Enhancing Productivity and Focus

Beyond stress reduction, the Chinese Money Plant can also enhance productivity and concentration. Research conducted at the University of Michigan found that spending time in nature or even just looking at images of natural scenes can improve attention span and memory performance by up to 20%. Having a Chinese Money Plant on your desk or in your workspace can provide similar benefits, serving as a natural focal point that allows your brain to rest and recharge.

The plant’s ability to improve air quality also contributes to cognitive function. By removing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, the Chinese Money Plant helps maintain optimal oxygen levels in your environment, which is essential for brain function. Additionally, by reducing airborne pollutants, the plant may help alleviate symptoms of “sick building syndrome,” including headaches, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating.

To maximize these benefits in a work or study environment, place your Chinese Money Plant within your line of sight but not directly in front of your computer screen, where it might cause visual distraction. Taking brief “plant breaks” throughout the day to observe your plant’s growth or perform minor care tasks can provide mental rest and improve focus when you return to work.

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7. Pet-Friendly Nature: Safe for Your Furry Friends

For pet owners, finding houseplants that are both beautiful and safe for curious cats and dogs can be challenging. Many popular indoor plants, such as pothos, philodendron, and peace lilies, contain compounds that are toxic to pets if ingested. The Chinese Money Plant, however, stands out as a pet-friendly option that allows you to enjoy greenery in your home without worrying about your furry companions’ safety.

Understanding Pet Safety

According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), the Chinese Money Plant (Pilea peperomioides) is non-toxic to both cats and dogs. This classification means that ingestion of the plant is unlikely to cause serious harm to your pets, though consuming any plant material may still result in mild gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea, particularly if eaten in large quantities.

The pet-friendly nature of the Chinese Money Plant makes it an excellent choice for households with adventurous pets who may be inclined to nibble on houseplants. While it’s always best to discourage your pets from eating plants, having non-toxic varieties like the Chinese Money Plant provides peace of mind that accidental ingestion won’t result in a veterinary emergency.

Creating a Pet-Safe Indoor Garden

The Chinese Money Plant can serve as the foundation for a pet-safe indoor garden. When combined with other non-toxic houseplants such as spider plants, Boston ferns, and prayer plants, you can create a lush, green environment that’s safe for all members of your household.

When designing your pet-friendly plant collection, consider both the toxicity of the plants and their placement. Even non-toxic plants can be damaged by curious pets, so positioning your Chinese Money Plant in a location that’s difficult for pets to access—such as on a high shelf or in a hanging planter—can help protect both the plant and your pets. Alternatively, you might create a designated “pet area” with cat grass or other pet-safe plants specifically for your animals to nibble on, distracting them from your more prized houseplants.

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8. Health & Traditional Uses: A Plant with Healing Heritage

While not approved by the FDA for medicinal use, the Chinese Money Plant has a rich history of traditional applications in its native regions of China. Indigenous communities have utilized various parts of the plant for centuries to address common ailments, demonstrating the deep connection between people and plants in traditional healing practices.

Traditional Medicinal Applications

In the mountainous regions of Yunnan Province where the Chinese Money Plant originates, local healers have historically used the plant’s leaves for their soothing properties. The leaves contain various compounds, including flavonoids and phenolic acids, which possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may explain their traditional uses.

One of the most common traditional applications involves using crushed leaves as a poultice for minor skin irritations and insect bites. The leaves would be gently bruised to release their juices, then applied directly to the affected area. This practice was believed to reduce itching, inflammation, and discomfort associated with minor skin ailments.

Some traditional healers also prepared infusions from the leaves to be used as a wash for minor cuts and scrapes. The astringent properties of the leaves were thought to help clean wounds and promote healing. While these applications have not been scientifically validated, they reflect the plant’s importance in traditional medicine systems.

Modern Perspectives on Traditional Uses

It’s important to note that while these traditional uses are culturally significant, modern medicine does not endorse the Chinese Money Plant as a treatment for any medical condition. The plant should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. If you have skin irritations, insect bites, or other health concerns, consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate care.

That said, the historical uses of the Chinese Money Plant highlight the importance of ethnobotanical research—the study of how different cultures use plants. Many modern pharmaceuticals have their origins in traditional plant remedies, and documenting these traditional uses helps preserve cultural knowledge and may guide future scientific research.

For those interested in the intersection of traditional plant knowledge and modern science, the Chinese Money Plant serves as a fascinating example of how plants have been valued not just for their beauty, but for their potential healing properties throughout human history.

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9. Promotes Better Sleep: Your Natural Bedroom Companion

Unlike most plants, which release carbon dioxide during the night as part of their normal respiratory process, the Chinese Money Plant continues to release oxygen even after dark. This unique characteristic makes it an excellent choice for bedrooms, where it can help maintain healthy oxygen levels while you sleep.

The Science of Nighttime Oxygen Production

Most plants follow a pattern of photosynthesis during the day (absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen) and respiration at night (absorbing oxygen and releasing carbon dioxide). However, some plants, including the Chinese Money Plant, use a specialized form of photosynthesis called Crassulacean Acid Metabolism (CAM). CAM plants open their stomata (pores on the leaf surface) at night to collect carbon dioxide, which they then store and use for photosynthesis during the day.

This adaptation allows CAM plants like the Chinese Money Plant to release oxygen throughout the night, making them ideal companions for bedrooms. While the amount of oxygen released by a single plant is relatively small, having several Chinese Money Plants in your bedroom can contribute to better air quality and potentially improve sleep quality.

Creating an Optimal Sleep Environment

Beyond its oxygen-producing capabilities, the Chinese Money Plant can contribute to better sleep through several other mechanisms. The plant’s air-purifying abilities help remove airborne toxins that can irritate the respiratory system, leading to clearer breathing and a more restful sleep. Its calming visual presence and connection to nature can also help reduce the mental stress that often interferes with sleep, promoting a sense of peace and tranquility as you drift off.

When placing your Chinese Money Plant in the bedroom, ensure it is positioned in a location with bright, indirect light during the day to support its photosynthesis and growth. A small, healthy specimen on a nightstand or dresser can serve as a natural air filter and a soothing decorative element, making it an excellent choice for creating an optimal sleep environment.

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