Artillery Plant (Pilea microphylla): Fine-Textured Tropical

Artillery plant, also called rockweed or gunpowder plant, is a tiny-leaved, succulent-stemmed perennial that forms a low, dense mat. Its common name comes from the male flowers explosively discharging pollen. The foliage is bright green and fern-like in texture.

Botanical Profile

Native to tropical Americas, this plant thrives in warm, humid conditions, partial shade, and moist, well-drained soil. It's popular as a houseplant, terrarium plant, and ground cover in frost-free areas. It self-seeds readily and can become weedy.