Plant ID - Ask Extension
I recently purchased this small houseplant for inside my house. Please tell me what kind of plant it is. I have a cat who likes to chew on leaves, so ...
Knowledgebase
Plant ID #944456
Asked September 07, 2026, 5:07 PM EDT
I recently purchased this small houseplant for inside my house. Please tell me what kind of plant it is. I have a cat who likes to chew on leaves, so I want to make sure it is petsafe.
Washington County Oregon
Expert Response
I can offer you some help with identification, but can't give advice about the pet-safety.
This looked like Peperomia caperata to me at first. However, the leaves are sort of "off-center"heart-shaped on Pereromia. So, I suggest this is Pilea involucrata 'Norfolk' or a similar-colored cultivar. Compare the online images to your and see if it looks correct.
I hope it turns out that both plants are safe, so the exact identity isn't critical. These make good houseplants or terrarium plants, as they grow well in humid conditions.
Oh, and here's an Extension Service article about Pilea as a houseplant.
This looked like Peperomia caperata to me at first. However, the leaves are sort of "off-center"heart-shaped on Pereromia. So, I suggest this is Pilea involucrata 'Norfolk' or a similar-colored cultivar. Compare the online images to your and see if it looks correct.
I hope it turns out that both plants are safe, so the exact identity isn't critical. These make good houseplants or terrarium plants, as they grow well in humid conditions.
Oh, and here's an Extension Service article about Pilea as a houseplant.
