Silver Dollar Plant
xerosicyos danguyi
Also known as: ["Silver Dollar Plant","Dollar Plant"]
Overview
A succulent vine native to Madagascar, known for its round, silvery-green leaves and drought tolerance.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Cucurbitales |
| Family: | Cucurbitaceae |
| Genus: | Xerosicyos |
| Botanical Name: | Xerosicyos danguyi |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, sunny location or outdoor rock garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or pumice for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sunlight; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing near east-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, every 3–4 weeks in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries out between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or rocky soil mix with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid overwatering; refresh soil every 2–3 years.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild frost but thrives in warm conditions; reduce watering in cooler temperatures.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer, none in winter
Fertilize only during growing season; dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; apply to moist soil to avoid root shock.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; leaf cuttings are less reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy stem cutting.
- Let it callus for a few days.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist propagation medium.
- Keep humid and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain temperatures around 70–75°F (21–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and cactus soil; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots may appear in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 6–8 weeks; full establishment in 3–4 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors or knife, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut stems just above a leaf node or junction.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or leggy stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead or diseased parts; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water is removed to prevent waterlogging; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly during active growing season (spring/summer), allowing soil to dry completely between waterings; reduce frequency to monthly or less in winter.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to commercial potting soil to enhance drainage; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold stress); wilting or leaf drop (heat stress); stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Slows metabolic processes; may cause root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C); increases susceptibility to disease.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots with bubble wrap; reduce watering to prevent cold-induced rot.
Hot Stress
Leaves may curl or scorch; soil dries out faster; increased water demand; potential for heat-induced wilting.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; water before fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicXerosicyos danguyi is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant does not produce compounds that are harmful to felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicXerosicyos danguyi is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant does not produce compounds that are harmful to canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicXerosicyos danguyi is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. The plant is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Xerosicyos danguyi?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings to prevent root rot.
Q: Does Xerosicyos danguyi require full sun?
A: It thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: Is Xerosicyos danguyi toxic to pets?
A: There is no confirmed information on its toxicity to pets; it is best to keep it out of reach.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cucurbitaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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