Pilea insolens

Insolent Clearweed Urticaceae

An insolent little nettle relative that has absolutely no intention of stinging anyone. Pilea insolens is a handsome Sino-Himalayan perennial forming creeping stolons and upright, dark purplish stems carrying thick-textured, asymmetric, ovate leaves with conspicuous three-veined ribbing and an elegant elongated drip-tip. In late summer and autumn, loose sprays of tiny white flowers appear from the leaf axils, adding a delicate finish to the substantial foliage. Native from the eastern Himalaya through Assam and Nepal to southeastern Tibet, it grows naturally in the cool, moist subtropical mountain forests of the region. Excellent for shady, humus-rich borders, it can remain evergreen in mild winters but dies back when temperatures fall below freezing. 

Growing conditions: Moist but well-drained, humus-rich soil in shade or partial shade; shelter from drying winds. 

Flowering: August–October
Hardiness: H4, approximately -10 to -5°C
Height: 40–60cm
Spread: 40–60cm