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Dischidia nummularia, commonly known as String of Nickels, is a trailing plant with round, coin-like leaves that cascade beautifully from hanging baskets or shelves. Native to Southeast Asia, this easy-to-care-for plant thrives in warm, humid environments and is an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced plant lovers. With the right care, Dischidia nummularia can grow into a lush and eye-catching plant that enhances any indoor space.
Dischidia nummularia thrives in bright, indirect light, making it well-suited for indoor environments. The best location for this plant is near a windowsill with filtered light or a window with sheer curtains to prevent sunburn. If the plant doesn’t receive enough light, its leaves may become smaller, and the stems may start stretching out in an attempt to reach more light, a process known as etiolating. Growth may also slow down significantly. While Dischidia nummularia can tolerate some direct sunlight, prolonged exposure to intense sun can cause the leaves to burn, resulting in brown or crispy edges. If this happens, move the plant to a location with filtered light. If grown outdoors in warm climates, placing the plant in partial shade or an area with dappled sunlight will help prevent damage.
String of Nickels prefers slightly moist soil but is sensitive to overwatering. It is important to water thoroughly, ensuring that excess water drains out of the pot, but allow the top one to two inches of soil to dry before watering again. Standing water can lead to root rot, so choosing a well-draining pot is crucial. During the growing season in spring and summer, watering every seven to ten days is typically sufficient, though this can vary depending on temperature and humidity. In fall and winter, when the plant’s growth slows down, watering should be reduced to once every two weeks or even less. A simple way to check if the plant needs water is by sticking a finger into the soil—if it feels dry, it’s time to water, but if it still feels moist, it’s best to wait a few more days.
Dischidia nummularia thrives in a well-draining, airy soil mix that prevents excess moisture from accumulating around the roots. An ideal mix consists of 50% orchid bark or coconut husk for aeration, 30% perlite or pumice to enhance drainage, and 20% peat moss or coco coir to retain just the right amount of moisture. Alternatively, a high-quality succulent or cactus soil mix with added perlite or bark can also work well.
This plant does not require frequent repotting, as it prefers to be slightly root-bound. Repotting should only be done every two to three years or when roots begin to grow out of the drainage holes. When repotting, choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one, ensuring it has drainage holes to prevent water from sitting at the bottom. Fresh soil should be used to replenish nutrients and maintain good aeration around the roots.
String of Nickels thrives in warm temperatures between 65°F and 80°F (18°C - 27°C) and should be kept away from environments where temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C), as it is sensitive to the cold. Maintaining humidity is also important for this plant’s health, as it prefers a humid environment similar to its natural tropical habitat. If the air in your home is dry, especially during winter, using a humidifier or placing the plant on a pebble tray filled with water can help maintain the necessary humidity levels. While Dischidia nummularia enjoys moisture in the air, good airflow is equally important to prevent fungal or mold issues. A well-ventilated space with indirect light and moderate humidity will create an ideal environment for this plant. If you live in a dry climate, grouping humidity-loving plants together can also help maintain a microenvironment with higher humidity.
Though not a heavy feeder, Dischidia nummularia benefits from occasional fertilization, especially during the growing season. A balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength, should be applied once a month during spring and summer to encourage healthy growth. However, fertilization should be avoided in fall and winter, as the plant enters a semi-dormant state and does not require additional nutrients. Over-fertilizing can lead to salt buildup in the soil, which may cause leaf burn or stunted growth. If signs of over-fertilization appear, such as yellowing or crispy leaves, flushing the soil with water can help remove excess salts. When in doubt, it is better to under-fertilize than to overfeed, as this plant is naturally low-maintenance and does not need excessive nutrients.
Dischidia nummularia requires minimal maintenance but benefits from occasional pruning to keep it looking tidy and encourage bushier growth. Any dead or damaged vines should be trimmed back to maintain a healthy appearance, while long or leggy vines can be pruned to promote branching. Cutting just above a leaf node will stimulate new growth from the cut areas. Occasionally wiping the leaves with a damp cloth helps remove dust and keeps the plant looking fresh. When pruning, always use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to prevent unnecessary damage and reduce the risk of spreading disease.
Propagating Dischidia nummularia is relatively simple and can be done using stem cuttings. To propagate, cut a healthy section of vine with at least a few nodes where leaves attach to the stem. Allow the cut end to dry and callus over for one to two days to reduce the risk of rot. Once calloused, the cutting can be placed in water or directly into well-draining soil. If propagating in water, the water should be changed every few days to keep it fresh. Once the cutting develops roots, it can be transferred to a pot with soil and treated like a mature plant. Keeping the cutting in a humid environment, such as under a plastic bag, will help it establish roots more quickly. Propagation by stem cuttings is the easiest and most reliable method for growing new Dischidia nummularia plants.
Dischidia nummularia is non-toxic to pets, making it a safe choice for households with cats, dogs, and other animals. However, while it is not poisonous, it is still best to prevent pets from chewing on the plant, as ingesting large amounts could cause mild digestive upset. If you notice your pet nibbling on the plant, try moving it to a higher location or using pet-safe deterrents to discourage unwanted chewing.
Why are my Dischidia nummularia’s leaves turning yellow?
Yellowing leaves are often a sign of overwatering or poor drainage. Ensure your plant has a well-draining pot, and allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Yellowing can also be caused by insufficient light or a lack of nutrients.
How often should I water my String of Nickels?
Watering should be done when the soil is dry to the touch. During the growing season, this typically means watering every seven to ten days. In winter, watering should be reduced to once every two weeks or less.
Can I grow Dischidia nummularia outdoors?
Yes, Dischidia nummularia can be grown outdoors in warm climates, specifically USDA zones 10-11. However, it is not frost-tolerant, so it should be protected from cold temperatures and prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.
Why is my Dischidia nummularia not growing?
Lack of growth can be caused by inadequate light, improper watering habits, or cold temperatures. Ensuring the plant is kept in a warm spot with bright, indirect light and proper watering will help promote healthy growth.