Silver Dollar Plant
dischidia ovata
Also known as: ["Silver Dollar Vine","Rice Paddy Plant"]
Overview
A trailing epiphytic succulent with fleshy, coin-shaped leaves and small, inconspicuous flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["low maintenance","aesthetic foliage","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Genus: | Dischidia |
| Botanical Name: | Dischidia ovata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: hanging basket or mounted on a bark slab in a bright, humid room
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days if ambient humidity is below 50%, otherwise rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining mix of cactus/succulent soil with added perlite or orchid bark for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at a time.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon rays.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate to brighter light gradually; protect from intense sun to prevent leaf burn; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
bright, indirect light
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct light; move to brighter spot during low-light seasons.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 14–21 days in winter
Allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering; water early in the day.
Soil
well-draining, epiphytic mix with orchid bark and perlite
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with fresh soil annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid drafts or extreme heat.
Avoid placing near vents; maintain stable temperatures; monitor for signs of stress.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with diluted balanced liquid fertilizer, none in fall and winter
Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with at least one node; can also propagate via leaf cuttings in some cases.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem.
- Cut below a node.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus/succulent soil.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome or plastic bag.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide gentle warmth for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Trim stems just above a leaf node or junction; pinch back tips for denser growth.
Pruning Plan
Remove leggy growth, dead leaves, and overgrown stems to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for refreshed soil and growth space.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in response to sudden temperature changes.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and increases susceptibility to root rot due to reduced water uptake.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; reduce watering in cooler conditions.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or dehydration due to excessive heat and transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; monitor for signs of burn.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicDischidia ovata is not toxic to cats. The plant does not contain any known toxic substances that would pose a risk to felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicDischidia ovata is not toxic to dogs. There are no known toxic compounds in this plant that would cause harm to canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicDischidia ovata is not known to produce any toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects in humans. The plant is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Dischidia ovata?
A: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, typically every 7-10 days, depending on conditions.
Q: Does Dischidia ovata need direct sunlight?
A: It prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions.
Q: Is Dischidia ovata toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | bright, indirect light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
