Dischidia nummularia aka String Of Nickels

Dischidia nummularia thrives in moderate warmth between 18–26°C (64–79°F), reflecting its tropical origins. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°C (50°F) but should never be exposed to frost. Keep it away from cold drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations, which can cause stunted growth and leaf drop. In winter, maintain temperatures above 12°C (54°F) with ample light.

Dischidia nummularia produces small, inconspicuous white to yellowish-white flowers, typically in spring. The blooms appear in clusters of 1–6 flowers and measure just 2–4 mm across, so they're easy to miss. Flowering is more likely when the plant receives bright light — llifle notes that strong light promotes blooming. While the flowers are not the main ornamental attraction, they can be followed by paired lance-shaped seed pods (follicles) up to 4 cm long.

Dischidia nummularia is a slender trailing or climbing vine with stems reaching up to 1.5 metres (5 feet) in length. The individual leaves are tiny, measuring just 7–14 mm across — roughly the size of a small coin, hence the common name String of Nickels. Growth rate is moderate, and the plant forms dense, cascading masses over time, making it ideal for hanging baskets. The stem diameter stays very slender, never exceeding 2 cm.

Dischidia nummularia propagates readily from stem cuttings taken in spring or early summer. Cut a 7–12 cm section of stem with at least 3–4 nodes, allow the cut end to callus for 1–2 days, then place it on moist sphagnum moss or orchid mix. Cover with a plastic dome to maintain humidity and keep in bright indirect light. Roots typically develop within 3–6 weeks. You can also propagate by layering — simply pin a section of stem to moist substrate while still attached to the mother plant, and sever once rooted. Note that the milky sap can irritate skin, so wear gloves when taking cuttings.

The most notable cultivar is Dischidia nummularia 'Ideaminubu', sold under the trade names "Pangolin Kisses" and "Dragon Jade." It features distinctively curved, overlapping, pebble-like leaves that are glossier and more densely packed than the species type. It reaches about 0.3m height and 0.6m spread. The standard species itself shows natural variation in leaf colour from pale olive green to yellowish-brown or blue-grey depending on light exposure, with stronger light producing more bronzed tones.

Dischidia nummularia can only grow outdoors year-round in USDA zones 10–12, where temperatures stay above 10°C (50°F). In tropical and subtropical climates, it does well mounted on tree trunks or in hanging baskets in a shaded position, mimicking its natural epiphytic habitat. In temperate climates, it can be moved outdoors during warm summer months but must be brought inside before temperatures drop below 10°C. Avoid placing it in direct afternoon sun outdoors, as this will scorch the leaves.

Dischidia nummularia requires only light pruning. Trim back straggly stems at the beginning of the growing season to encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead or yellowing leaves and stems promptly, as decaying material can attract pests and promote fungal growth. The removed stem sections can be used as cuttings for propagation. Be aware that cutting stems releases a milky sap that may irritate skin.

Dischidia nummularia has a small root system and doesn't need frequent repotting — every 2 years is typically sufficient. Repot when the plant becomes crowded or the growing medium breaks down and loses its drainage capacity. Use a very porous medium like orchid bark, coconut husk chunks, or sphagnum moss.

Mealybugs are the primary pest concern for Dischidia nummularia, affecting both stems and roots. Scale insects can also occasionally appear. Inspect regularly, especially in leaf axils and along stems. The most common disease issue is root rot from overwatering or poorly draining substrate — the epiphytic roots are highly susceptible to fungal decay in persistently damp conditions. If rot occurs, remove affected sections immediately, allow healthy portions to dry, and re-root in fresh medium.

Yellow leaves on Dischidia nummularia most commonly indicate overwatering or poor drainage, which leads to root rot in this epiphytic species. Check that your growing medium is very porous (orchid bark or coconut husk, not regular potting soil) and that the pot drains freely. Insufficient light can also cause yellowing — this plant needs bright indirect light and does not tolerate low-light conditions. If only older leaves yellow occasionally, this is normal shedding.

Browning and curling of leaves on Dischidia nummularia typically signals low humidity or excessive direct sunlight. As a tropical epiphyte, it needs at least 50% humidity — dry indoor air, especially in winter with heating, can cause leaf edges to brown and curl. Direct midday sun will also scorch the thin, fleshy leaves. Move the plant away from harsh sun and increase humidity through misting, a pebble tray, or a humidifier.

Dischidia nummularia is insect-pollinated, as confirmed by NParks Singapore. The small white to yellowish-white flowers have a corona structure typical of the Apocynaceae family, with pollinia (pollen masses) that attach to visiting insects. After successful pollination, the plant produces paired follicle fruits containing seeds with white plumes for wind dispersal. The seeds also bear fatty substances that attract ants, creating an ecological mutualism that aids in seed dispersal.

Dischidia nummularia has an extensive native range spanning from southern China through tropical Southeast Asia to northern Queensland, Australia. According to POWO/Kew Gardens, it occurs across India (Assam, Andaman Islands), Bangladesh, Myanmar, China (Hainan), Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia (Borneo, Java, Sulawesi, Moluccas, Sumatra, Lesser Sunda Islands), the Philippines, Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, and the Bismarck Archipelago. It grows as an epiphyte in open forests, rainforests, mangrove forests, and secondary growth, from sea level up to 1,700 metres elevation.

Drooping in Dischidia nummularia can result from either overwatering or underwatering. If the stems feel soft and mushy, overwatering and root rot are likely — check the roots and repot in fresh, well-draining epiphytic medium. If leaves appear wrinkled and shrivelled, the plant is dehydrated and needs a thorough watering. Sudden temperature drops or cold drafts can also cause wilting and leaf drop. Ensure temperatures stay above 10°C (50°F) and the plant is away from cold windows or air conditioning vents.

Dischidia nummularia has several documented traditional medicinal uses in Southeast Asia. According to NParks Singapore, the leaves are used to treat gonorrhea and tropical sores, while the milky latex is applied to alleviate pain from spiny catfish stings. llifle also documents use in treating sprue (a malabsorption condition). These are traditional folk remedies and have not been validated by modern clinical research. The milky sap can cause skin irritation on contact, so handling should be done with care.

Due to its tiny leaves (just 7–14 mm across), Dischidia nummularia is difficult to wipe leaf by leaf. The best approach is to mist the plant regularly or give it a gentle lukewarm shower to wash off dust and debris. This also helps maintain the humidity it enjoys. Avoid using leaf shine products, as these can clog the pores of the small, fleshy leaves. Regularly remove any dead or yellowing leaves and stems to keep the plant tidy and prevent pest harbourage.

With a bit of knowledge and dedication, you can successfully care for String Of Nickels, making it a rewarding choice for those seeking a moderate challenge.

String Of Nickels should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

To keep your String Of Nickels healthy, it's important to use a potting soil that won't retain too much moisture. A soil that drains well and contains perlite or vermiculite for drainage and some organic matter for nutrition is ideal. Adding a few handfuls of perlite to regular cactus soil from the store is an easy way to create this type of soil mix.

To ensure optimal growth, the String Of Nickels prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

No extra humidity is necessary for the String Of Nickels. Absorption of water by plants is primarily done through their roots, and soil watering is the most effective method to provide humidity to your plants.

The String Of Nickels is characterized by its slow growth and doesn't need fertilization in addition to its potting soil. By renewing the soil in its pot once a year, it should have enough nutrition. Remember, plants get their energy from sunlight, not from any fertilizers.

There is no verified data on the toxicity of this plant in the records of Ploi. If any person, including yourself, a family member, or a pet, consume plant material with an uncertain toxicity level, it is advisable to seek the advice of a healthcare expert.

During the wintertime, it is common for String Of Nickels plants to go dormant and their growth rate may slow down. Therefore, the amount of waterings should be spaced out more.