The brilhantina is an edible, hardy, and versatile plant that can be grown in pots or gardens, combining landscaping and cuisine
Submitted at Mar 19, 2026, 10:30 AM
Brilhantina. (Flickr/HQ Flower Guide/Creative Commons/Divulgação)
The artillery plant is a modest plant, yet full of qualities. Known for its small leaves and succulent foliage, this edible species is often found in home vegetable gardens and productive gardens, where it serves both culinary and medicinal functions. Its fast growth and hardiness help explain why it has been rediscovered by people who grow plants at home.
Brilhantina. (Flickr/Bobbruxelles/Creative Commons/Divulgação)
In addition to easy maintenance, the artillery plant adapts well to different projects, from pots on balconies to groundcovers in the garden. The plant can be incorporated into salads, sautés and light preparations, becoming an interesting option for those looking to bring landscaping and food closer together.
The artillery plant (Pilea Microphylla) belongs to the group of edible succulent plants and has small, rounded, slightly shiny leaves that store water in their structure. This characteristic allows the species to withstand short periods of drought and develop with relative ease even in hot climates.
Brilhantina. (Reanjusplace/Wikimedia Commons/Divulgação)
Another striking feature of the artillery plant is its creeping growth. The plant tends to form small clumps that spread across the soil or the container where it is planted, creating a delicate green texture that can also be explored in landscape compositions.
Growing the artillery plant is usually simple, but a few care tips help ensure healthier leaves and balanced growth.
Brilhantina. (Sam Thomas/Wikimedia Commons/Divulgação)
The artillery plant appreciates well-lit projects. It can grow in full sun or partial shade, depending on the region's climate. In very hot areas, partial shade tends to favor more balanced development, preventing the leaves from becoming excessively dehydrated.
Indoors, the ideal is to place the pot near windows or balconies where the plant receives good light throughout the day. Air circulation also helps to maintain healthy growth.
One of the secrets to growing the artillery plant is ensuring well-drained soil. Mixes with potting soil, sand and organic matter usually offer good conditions for root development.
In pots, it is important that the container has drainage holes. The drainage layer, made with expanded clay or small stones, helps avoid moisture buildup that could compromise the plant.
The artillery plant prefers moderate humidity. Regular watering is important, but the soil should not remain constantly waterlogged. The ideal is to observe the soil surface and water when it begins to dry.
Maintenance also involves light pruning. Cutting longer stems encourages new shoots and helps keep the plant compact, in addition to providing fresh leaves for consumption.
The artillery plant's leaves are succulent and have a mild flavor, slightly acidic, which allows different uses in the kitchen. They can be eaten raw in salads, combined with leafy greens or used to add texture to cold preparations. Another possibility is to incorporate the artillery plant into quick sautés, omelets or light fillings.
Brilhantina. (Flickr/Andres Hernandez S./Creative Commons/Divulgação)
Regarding medicinal properties, the plant contains a large amount of free radicals, which may act as wound-healing agents, diuretics and even in the treatment of kidney problems. Patients undergoing radiotherapy may consume it up to twice a day, or as advised by a physician.
CASACOR Publisher is an exclusive content-creating agent, developed by the CASACOR Technology team from the knowledge base of casacor.com.br. This text was edited by Yeska Coelho.
