Dischidia is a genus of some 80 species of trailing, twining, or scandent succulent epiphytes found throughout the tropics of Asia (New Guinea, Moluccas, Philippines, India, tropical Australia, Hong Kong, Taiwan) through to the western Pacific.
Dischidias are plants that grow on supports such as tree trunks or branches. Their stems may produce roots along the nodes to absorb nutrients and water and provide additional support for the plant. Dischidias are some of the easiest and most rewarding plants to grow! They tolerate wide variations in temperature and humidity. A very succulent species have grey, yellow, or green-colored foliage depending on light exposure. The foliage is also somewhat variable depending on the culture. They are quick growers for drier areas of the terrarium and excellent in hanging baskets for home and garden!
Growing Conditions
Light: Grow Dischidias in medium to bright light to keep them happy.
Water: Water when the soil surface starts to dry. The plants are fairly drought-tolerant, so you do not need to be alarmed if you forget to water them now and again.
USDA Hardiness Zone: 10 and 11.
Soil: Plant your Dischidias in a loose well-draining soil designed for epiphytic plants. It is usually composed of coconut husk or shredded bark.
Grower's Tips
Allow the soil to dry out before you water the plants. When the bark medium is dry to the touch, submerge the container in water until the air bubbles are gone.
Dischidias also need high humidity. Mist the plants daily or place the container on a saucer filled with pebbles and water. The water will evaporate and moisten the air, while the pebbles will hold the sensitive roots out of the water.
These plants do not really need fertilizer, but you should change the planting media yearly. If you wish, apply a diluted half-liquid plant food when you water, beginning in spring and stopping by September.
Links
- Back to genus Dischidia
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus