How to Care for Dischidia nummularia (String of nickels)

Korean name: 디시디아

Dischidia nummularia, often called the “string of nickels,” is a charming trailing plant known for its round, coin-like leaves. Its slender stems and compact foliage make it a striking accent in hanging baskets or small pots indoors. The plant has a simple, minimalist look that fits many home decor styles. Dischidia nummularia is generally easy to care for, thriving with indirect light and occasional watering. Its low-maintenance nature makes it a popular choice for beginners and busy plant owners.

Key facts

Detailed care guide

String of nickels is an epiphytic plant with a distinctive look, its round, coin-like leaves trailing downward. It likes bright spots and high humidity, and can be grown attractively indoors too.

Watering

It's best to water String of nickels once the soil is nearly dry. Overwatering can turn the leaves yellow and mushy, so don't water too often. On the other hand, too little water can cause the leaf tips to dry out and brown.

Light

This plant likes bright indirect light best. Insufficient light can cause the stems to grow leggy and lose their shape, so make sure it gets enough light. Direct sun can scorch the leaves, so it's best avoided.

Humidity

It likes high humidity. In dry conditions, the leaf tips can dry out or lose their vitality, so maintaining indoor humidity is important. The higher the ambient humidity, the healthier it grows.

Temperature

It grows well at 18–30°C. Below this range, growth slows and leaf condition can worsen, so be careful. Avoid sudden temperature changes.

A common first-timer mistake

Beginners often make the mistake of watering too often. Watering only once the soil is nearly dry helps prevent problems from overwatering.

If you have pets

String of nickels is not known to be toxic to pets. That said, eating a large amount of any plant can cause an upset stomach, so if your pet chews on it habitually, move it out of reach.

Seasonal Care

In spring and summer, growth is active, so feeding diluted liquid fertilizer once a month works well. During this time, keep it in a bright, well-ventilated spot, and water once the soil is nearly dry. In fall and winter, pay closer attention to temperature and humidity, and space out watering more.

Common Problems and Fixes

If the leaves turn yellow and mushy, overwatering may be the cause. Use a pot with good airflow so the soil can dry properly, and reduce how much you water. Insufficient light can cause the stems to grow leggy, so keeping it in bright indirect light is important. In dry conditions, the leaf tips can brown, so misting or using a humidity tray can help.

Repotting and Propagation

Planting it in an epiphyte soil mix helps supply oxygen to the roots so it can grow healthy. Repot once the roots have filled the pot or drainage worsens. To propagate, place a healthy stem cutting on damp moss or soil, and it will root.

Who It's Good For

It's a great fit for anyone who can keep a bright indoor spot and maintain humidity. It's recommended for anyone who loves its unique leaf shape and trailing silhouette. If you can observe it consistently and adjust watering and light, you'll be able to enjoy its pretty look for a long time.

Written by AI from the care facts in this entry. Treat it as a starting point.

Common questions

How often should you water Dischidia nummularia?

Roughly every 10 days is the baseline; adjust for the season and the spot it sits in.

Where should you keep Dischidia nummularia?

You can grow it indoors.

Is Dischidia nummularia safe around pets?

No known toxicity, so it is fine to keep around pets.

Is Dischidia nummularia good for beginners?

Difficulty: Moderate.