The Dischidia nummularia, commonly known as String of Nickles, is a plant recognized for its small, round, coin-like leaves that cascade gracefully. These thick, fleshy leaves are arranged along trailing stems, creating a dense, lush appearance. Native to tropical regions of Asia and Australia, this epiphyte naturally grows on other plants or surfaces rather than in soil, drawing moisture and nutrients from its environment. Its vining habit makes it an excellent choice for hanging baskets, where its long trails can grow up to 2-3 feet. The String of Nickles is a popular indoor plant due to its distinctive aesthetic and easy care, suitable for both novice and experienced plant enthusiasts.
Essential Care for String of Nickles
Light Requirements
The String of Nickles thrives in bright, indirect light. An east or north-facing window is ideal, providing sufficient light without harsh direct sun. While it tolerates some direct sunlight, prolonged exposure, especially to intense afternoon rays, can scorch its leaves, leading to brown or crispy edges. Insufficient light can cause leaves to become smaller, and stems may stretch, resulting in sparse or leggy growth. If natural light is limited, supplementary grow lights provide necessary illumination.
Watering Practices
Proper watering is important for the String of Nickles, as it is sensitive to both over and underwatering. The plant prefers its soil to dry out almost completely between waterings to prevent root rot. Water thoroughly until excess water drains from the pot, then allow the top one to two inches of soil to dry before the next watering. Yellowing leaves and mushy stems indicate overwatering, while shriveling or wrinkling leaves suggest underwatering. During winter, reduce watering frequency as the plant’s growth slows.
Ideal Soil Mix
As an epiphyte, the String of Nickles requires a well-draining, airy potting mix. A suitable substrate includes a blend of orchid bark, perlite, and coco coir, or a specialized succulent and cactus mix with added perlite or bark. Chunky components like orchid bark or coconut husks promote air circulation around the roots, which helps prevent waterlogging. Standard potting soil is too dense and can suffocate the roots, leading to rot.
Temperature and Humidity
The String of Nickles prefers warm temperatures, between 60°F and 80°F (16°C to 27°C). It is sensitive to cold temperatures and should be protected from drafts or environments below 50°F (10°C). This plant appreciates a moderately humid environment. In drier indoor conditions, increasing humidity can be beneficial. Methods include placing the plant on a pebble tray, using a humidifier, or grouping plants together to create a localized humid microclimate.
Feeding Your Plant
The String of Nickles is not a heavy feeder, but it benefits from occasional fertilization during its active growing season (spring and summer). A balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength, can be applied once a month. Avoid over-fertilization, as it can lead to salt buildup in the soil and harm the plant. During fall and winter, when growth slows, withhold fertilization.
Propagating String of Nickles
Propagating the String of Nickles is commonly achieved through stem cuttings. Select healthy stems from a mature plant, ensuring each cutting has at least two to three nodes. After making the cut, allow the cut end to “callous” or dry for a few hours to a full day; this prevents rot when rooting.
Cuttings can be rooted in water or directly in soil. For water rooting, place calloused cuttings in clean water, ensuring at least one node is submerged. Change the water every few days. Roots emerge within two to three weeks, and once they are long enough, transfer them to soil.
For direct soil rooting, plant calloused cuttings into a small pot filled with a well-draining potting mix, such as an orchid mix or a blend of coco coir and bark. Ensure at least two nodes are buried, as roots form from these points. Keeping the soil lightly moist and providing a warm, humid environment, perhaps by covering the pot with a clear plastic bag or propagation dome, encourages successful rooting. Rooting hormone can be used to enhance development, but it is not necessary.
Solving Common String of Nickles Problems
Shriveling or wrinkling leaves often indicate underwatering. When the plant does not receive enough moisture, its succulent leaves dehydrate and shrivel. To address this, increase watering frequency, ensuring the soil is thoroughly moistened each time, but still allowing it to dry out almost completely between waterings. Severe root rot can also cause shriveling because damaged roots cannot absorb water.
Yellowing leaves are a common symptom with multiple causes. Overwatering is a frequent culprit, leading to root rot and yellow foliage. Insufficient light or a lack of nutrients can also contribute to yellowing. If leaves are yellowing, assess your watering schedule and light conditions; ensure adequate drainage and consider if fertilization is needed. Natural aging can also cause older, lower leaves to yellow and drop.
Sparse or leggy growth, characterized by elongated stems with few leaves, is a sign of insufficient light. To remedy this, move the plant to a brighter location with ample indirect light. Rotating the pot regularly helps ensure all sides receive adequate light, promoting more even and compact growth.
The String of Nickles can be susceptible to common houseplant pests like mealybugs, spider mites, or aphids. These pests weaken the plant by feeding on its sap. If pests are detected, manage them by wiping leaves with a damp cloth or using insecticidal soap or neem oil. Good air circulation also helps deter some pests and diseases.
A lack of new growth can stem from insufficient light, improper watering, or the plant being dormant during cooler months. Ensure the plant is in a warm spot with bright, indirect light and maintain consistent, appropriate watering during the growing season to encourage new growth. If the plant is root-bound, repotting into a slightly larger container may be beneficial.