Dischidia imbricata is a captivating epiphytic plant. This tropical vine features trailing or twining stems that can extend up to a meter long. Its distinctive foliage makes it a unique indoor plant.
Understanding Dischidia Imbricata
Dischidia imbricata is an epiphyte, meaning it naturally grows on other plants. In its native Southeast Asian rainforests, it clings to tree trunks and branches for support. Its leaves are thick, fleshy, and often kidney-shaped with reddish undersides.
The leaves are imbricated, meaning they overlap like roof shingles. This shingling effect allows the plant to lie flat against surfaces, maximizing contact and moisture retention. A unique adaptation is their ability to form a sealed dome with a space underneath, which in the wild can fill with roots and even house ants. This myrmecophytic relationship provides the Dischidia with protection from plant-eating insects, while offering a safe nesting site for ants.
Caring for Dischidia Imbricata
Light Needs
Dischidia imbricata thrives in bright, indirect light. Placing it near an east-facing window provides ideal morning sun exposure. While it can tolerate some direct sunlight if well-watered, strong direct sun can scorch its foliage, leading to discoloration or yellowing.
Watering
Proper watering for Dischidia imbricata involves allowing the growing medium to dry out slightly between waterings. Its succulent-like leaves store water, making it somewhat drought-tolerant. Overwatering is a common issue that can lead to root rot, so avoid letting the plant sit in excess water. When watering, thoroughly moisten the substrate and ensure good drainage.
Humidity and Temperature
High humidity benefits Dischidia imbricata, mirroring its tropical origins. Maintaining humidity levels between 60-80% is ideal for optimal growth and for the leaves to adhere well to surfaces if mounted. Misting regularly or placing the plant on a pebble tray filled with water can help increase ambient humidity. This plant prefers warm temperatures, thriving between 18°C and 28°C (64°F to 82°F). Protect it from cold drafts, as temperatures below 10°C (50°F) can be detrimental.
Substrate and Mounting
Dischidia imbricata requires a very airy, fast-draining growing medium. A loose, free-draining mix, like those for orchids or cacti, is suitable. Many growers mount Dischidia imbricata on bark, cork, or tree fern planks to mimic its natural growth habit. When mounted, the plant establishes itself by clinging flat against the surface.
Fertilizing
Dischidia imbricata is not a heavy feeder and does not require frequent fertilization. During its active growing season in spring and summer, a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half-strength can be applied monthly. Fertilizer can be applied less frequently, perhaps annually or bi-annually, especially for mounted plants. Reducing or ceasing fertilization during fall and winter, when growth slows, is recommended.
Propagating Dischidia Imbricata
Propagating Dischidia imbricata is achieved through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem and cut it into smaller sections, ensuring each section has at least a few nodes. Removing the bottom leaves from the cutting exposes these nodes for rooting.
Cuttings can be rooted in moist sphagnum moss, an airy potting mix, or water. Warmth and high humidity create favorable conditions for successful rooting. Once a robust root system is established, cuttings can be treated as mature plants.
Common Problems and Solutions
Dischidia imbricata can encounter common issues. Yellowing leaves indicate overwatering or inconsistent watering, while browning tips suggest low humidity or too much direct sunlight. Resolve these by ensuring the substrate dries out between waterings and providing adequate humidity.
Slow growth could indicate insufficient light or nutrient deficiencies. Increase bright, indirect light and adhere to a diluted fertilization schedule during the growing season for more vigorous growth. Pests like mealybugs, aphids, and spider mites can infest Dischidia imbricata. Regular inspection and prompt treatment with horticultural oil, such as neem oil, or insecticidal soap can manage these pests. Good air circulation also helps prevent fungal problems.