Dischidia nummularia: Complete care and characteristics guide
Nummular Dischidia, also known as the "ant plant", "string of coins" or "button orchid", is a epiphytic plant An exotic plant that is increasingly popular in interior design due to its unique beauty and ease of maintenance. Native to tropical regions of Asia and warmer areas of Oceania, this fascinating specimen of the Apocynaceae family stands out for its rounded leaves, hanging stems, and its adaptation to environments with high humidity and filtered light.
In this guide we will go in depth into all the particularities and best practices for the cultivation and care of Dischidia nummularia, including its origin, its decorative uses, the secrets to growing it healthily, and how to solve the most common problems.
Origin, habitat and ornamental uses
The gender dischidia It belongs to the Apocynaceae family and is made up of more than 80 species of epiphytic plants originating mainly from India, Southeast Asia and part of OceaniaAmong the best-known species are Dischidia nummularia, Dischidia platyphylla, Dischidia pectinoides and Dischidia ruscifolia.
In its natural environment, Dischidia nummularia lives on trunks and branches in humid tropical forests, developing aerial roots with which it absorbs moisture and nutrients from the environment, without damaging the trees on which it is hosted.
For his hanging appearance, its ease of adaptation and low maintenance requirements, is appreciated in:
- Hanging baskets and flowerpots, to create original compositions on balconies or interiors.
- Terrariums and vertical gardens, thanks to its compact growth and resistance to humid environments.
- Shelves and shelves in small spaces, providing movement and freshness.
Botanical characteristics of Dischidia nummularia
- Plant type: Epiphytic, hanging and slow growing.
- Height and build: It can reach up to 1,5 meters under ideal conditions, although it normally maintains a compact and dense appearance.
- Sheets: Small, round, and fleshy, light or bright green. Their slightly fleshy texture allows them to retain moisture, although they are not a succulent.
- Stems: Long, thin and hanging, they form dense and decorative clumps.
- Flowers: Clusters of small, waxy, white or cream-colored flowers. Its flowering is not particularly ornamental or frequent and usually occurs during the warm season.
- Estate: Aerial, adapted to absorb moisture and nutrients from the air and organic remains.
Interesting fact: Dischidia nummularia is called the "ant plant" because in its natural environment it coexists in symbiosis with ants, which use its leaves as shelter, while helping to protect the plant from pests.
Light and temperature conditions
Light: Dischidia nummularia prefers environments very bright but without direct exposure to the sun During the central hours of the day. Indirect, filtered light is ideal, such as that found near an east- or west-facing window, or one protected by translucent curtains.
If the plant lacks light, it may lose its leaf color and slow its growth. Direct sunlight, on the other hand, can cause burns and brown spots. Outdoors, it is recommended to place the plant in partial shade under a tree canopy or in a protected area.
Temperature: It is essential to keep Dischidia nummularia in warm and stable environmentsIt tolerates temperatures between 15°C and 29°C, ideally never below 15°C, as it is not resistant to cold or frost. If you live in an area with cold winters, it is best to grow it indoors or in a greenhouse.
Ambient humidity and ventilation
As a good tropical plant, Dischidia nummularia requires high ambient humidity, which can range from 60% to 80%. An excessively dry environment will cause the leaves to wrinkle or lose firmness.
- Spray the leaves with lime-free water several times a week, especially in rooms with heating or air conditioning.
- You can place trays with stones and water near the plant to increase humidity.
- A humidifier may be helpful in drier climates.
- Ventilation must be good to avoid fungi, but it must be protected from strong drafts.
Type of substrate and transplant
The root system of Dischidia nummularia is adapted to epiphytic environments, so the substrate must be very light and with excellent drainageIdeally, use an orchid mix (pine bark, coconut fiber, perlite), and you can enrich it with worm castings or compost to provide organic matter.
- Avoid the use of compacted soils or heavy ones that retain water and drown the roots.
- If you grow in a pot, make sure it has sufficient drainage holes.
- Transplanting is usually only necessary when the plant has completely invaded the space or the substrate has lost structure.
Irrigation: how and when to do it
Excess water is the main enemy of Dischidia nummularia. It is advisable to keep the substrate slightly damp, But never soakedIf you use a tray at the base of the pot, remove any excess water after each watering.
- Water moderately, waiting until the top layer of the substrate is dry to the touch before watering again.
- In high humidity environments and during winter, reduce watering frequency.
- In summer or in warm rooms, watering can be slightly increased, but always avoiding excess.
- The immersion method can be practical to moisten the substrate evenly.
The fleshy leaves allow the plant to withstand short periods of drought, but prolonged dryness will cause the leaves to lose turgor.
Fertilization and nutrients
To stimulate vegetative development, apply liquid mineral fertilizer diluted in water During the growing season (spring and summer) every 3-4 weeks. Nitrogen- and micronutrient-rich fertilizers improve plant growth and vigor.
- Suspend fertilization in autumn and winter to avoid salt accumulation in the substrate.
- If you use fertilizer for orchids or epiphytes, follow the manufacturer's instructions and never exceed the dosage.
Pruning, growth and propagation
Dischidia nummularia does not need drastic pruning, but it can be trimmed lightly to control its growth, remove dry or damaged stems and encourage branching.
- Light pruning: Make clean cuts just above a node or bud. This will help keep the plant compact and attractive.
- Spread: The most effective method is stem cuttings. Cut a healthy stem with several nodes, let it dry for a few hours, and place it in moist soil or even a glass of water until it roots.
- Dividing the plant is another alternative, although less common in this type of growth.
- Reproduction by seed is unusual in home cultivation, since germination is slow and the seeds must be sown fresh after flowering.
Flowering and seed
The flowering of Dischidia nummularia usually occurs in warm seasons and, although its bunches of small white or cream flowers They have a certain waxy charm, but do not provide any outstanding ornamental interest.
- After flowering, the plant can produce seeds, but these lose viability quickly, so they should be sown within a few days if you decide to try generating seeds.
- The flowers generally develop in small, inconspicuous clusters at the nodes of the stems.
Pests, diseases and common problems
Resistant Under healthy conditions, Dischidia nummularia may occasionally be affected by:
- Mealybugs and aphids: They appear most often when humidity drops. Remove them manually, using potassium soap or organic insecticides.
- Mites and red spider: They appear in a dry environment or lack of ventilation.
- Root rot: Caused by excess water and poor drainage. Roots suffocate, leaves turn yellow and drop. If this happens, reduce watering and transplant into fresh soil.
- Fungi: Excess moisture can trigger fungal diseases. Improve ventilation and avoid over-wetting the foliage.
Regularly check the undersides of leaves and the bases of stems. Act quickly if any symptoms appear and always use environmentally friendly methods.
Varieties and curiosities
There are different varieties of Dischidia nummularia, such as the attractive 'Bubble,' known for its more inflated, bubble-like leaves. Each maintains similar growing requirements, although the aesthetic nuances may vary slightly.
- Dischidia nummularia is not toxic to pets, so it can live in homes with pets. However, it is recommended to keep it out of reach of animals to avoid accidental damage.
Frequently asked questions about Dischidia nummularia
- What are their common names? Ant plant, string of coins, button orchid, coin plant, heart plant.
- Can it be grown without substrate? In its natural habitat it lives on trunks without soil, but at home it grows best with an aerated epiphytic substrate to maintain humidity and anchorage.
- What is the most common problem? Excessive watering and lack of environmental humidity are the main enemies.
- How do you reproduce at home? Easily grown from stem cuttings; seeds are usually not very viable indoors.
- Do you suffer from pests? It is rare, but occasionally it can have mealybugs, aphids or mites if the humidity drops.
Nummular Dischidia It stands out as an ideal species for plant design lovers, indoor gardeners, or those looking for a unique, hardy, and easy-care plant. Respecting its light, humidity, and watering needs, its vigorous growth and cascading leaves will bring life to any space, from small rooms to vertical gardens or hanging baskets.
