String Of Nickels

If you’re looking for a unique and elegant trailing plant, the string of nickels is a fantastic choice. This rare trailing houseplant is a true gem for collectors, with its distinctive coin-shaped leaves that cascade beautifully from a hanging basket.

Its botanical name is Dischidia nummularia, and it’s an epiphyte, meaning in nature it grows on other plants for support. While stunning, it has a reputation for being a bit fussy, but with the right knowledge, you can help it thrive in your home.

This plant is all about its foliage. The leaves are small, round, and flat, resembling a string of coins—hence the charming common name. The stems are thin and can grow several feet long, creating a lush, trailing effect. It’s a conversation starter that adds a touch of sophisticated greenery to any bright space.

Ideal Growing Conditions

Getting the environment right is the key to success with this plant. It comes from humid, tropical forests, so we need to mimic those conditions as closely as possible indoors.

Light Needs

Bright, indirect light is perfect. Think near an east or west-facing window where it gets plenty of gentle sun.

Avoid harsh, direct afternoon sun, which can scorch the delicate leaves.
Too little light will cause leggy growth and the leaves may lose their vibrant color.
A sheer curtain is a great way to filter strong sunlight.

Temperature & Humidity

This plant prefers warmth and moisture in the air. Aim for average room temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C). Keep it away from cold drafts and heating vents.

High humidity is non-negotiable. Ideally, you want 60% or higher.
Use a humidifier nearby for the best results.
Other options include placing it on a pebble tray with water or grouping it with other plants.
Bathrooms with good light can be an excellent spot.

Planting and Potting Mix

Because it’s an epiphyte, the string of nickels needs a very airy, fast-draining mix. A standard potting soil will hold too much water and cause rot.

Here’s a simple recipe you can use:

Start with a base of orchid bark or chunky coco chips.
Mix in a generous amount of perlite or pumice.
Add a smaller portion of sphagnum moss to retain a little moisture.
A handful of charcoal can help keep the mix fresh.

Always use a pot with drainage holes. Terracotta pots are a good choice because they allow the mix to dry more evenly.

Watering Your Plant Correctly

This is where most people run into trouble. The string of nickels dislikes wet feet. You should water it thoroughly, but only when the potting mix is mostly dry.

Check the soil by sticking your finger an inch into the mix.
If it feels dry, it’s time to water.
Water slowly and evenly until it runs out the drainage holes.
Empty the saucer underneath promptly—never let the pot sit in water.
In winter, you’ll need to water less frequently.

The leaves may pucker slightly when the plant is thirsty, which is a helpful visual cue. It’s better to underwater slightly than to overdo it.

Fertilizing for Healthy Growth

Feed your plant during its active growing season (spring and summer). A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer is fine.

Dilute the fertilizer to half the recommended strength.
Apply it once a month when you water.
There’s no need to fertilize in the fall and winter when growth slows.

Over-fertilizing can harm the roots, so less is more. If you repot annually with fresh mix, you may not need to fertilize as much.

Pruning and Maintenance

Pruning helps keep your plant looking full and encourages branching. Don’t be afraid to give it a trim.

Use clean, sharp scissors to cut back any overly long or sparse stems.
You can prune just above a leaf node to encourage new growth from that point.
Remove any yellow or dead leaves as you see them to keep the plant healthy.

Regularly check for dust on the leaves and gently wipe them with a damp cloth. This allows the plant to breathe and absorb light efficiently.

How to Propagate New Plants

Propagating a string of nickels is rewarding and a great way to share this rare plant with friends. The easiest method is stem cuttings.

Select a healthy stem with several leaves and cut a 4-6 inch piece.
You can remove the bottom few leaves to expose a node.
Let the cutting callous over for a few hours to prevent rot.
Place the cutting on top of a moist sphagnum moss or a well-draining mix.
Press the node gently into the surface; you don’t need to bury it deeply.
Keep the medium slightly moist and provide high humidity (a plastic bag tent can help).
Place in bright, indirect light and wait for roots to develop, which can take a few weeks.

Common Problems and Solutions

Even with great care, you might encounter an issue. Here’s how to troubleshoot.

Yellowing or Mushy Leaves

This is almost always a sign of overwatering. Check the roots for rot. If present, cut away the affected parts, let the plant dry, and repot in fresh, dry mix. Adjust your watering schedule.

Dry, Shriveled Leaves

This indicates underwatering or, more commonly, extremely low humidity. Increase the humidity around the plant and check if the potting mix has become too dry and water-repellent. A good soak might be needed.

Leggy Growth with Small Leaves

The plant isn’t getting enough light. Gradually move it to a brighter location with indirect sunlight. Prune back the leggy stems to encourage fuller growth.

Pests

Mealybugs and aphids can sometimes be a problem. Look for white cottony masses or tiny green insects.

Isolate the affected plant immediately.
Wipe pests off with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
For larger infestations, use an insecticidal soap or neem oil spray, applying it thoroughly.

Displaying Your String of Nickels

This plant’s trailing nature begs for a elevated display. A hanging basket or a pot on a high shelf allows the stems to cascade down beautifully. Ensure the display spot still meets its light and humidity requirements—sometimes the best looking spot isn’t the most practical.

FAQ

Is the string of nickels a succulent?
It’s often called a succulent because of its plump leaves, but it’s technically a tropical epiphyte. It stores water in its leaves but needs more humidity than most desert succulents.

Why are my string of nickels leaves falling off?
Leaf drop can be caused by a sudden change in environment, extreme temperatures, or improper watering. Check your care routine for consistency.

How fast does string of nickels grow?
Growth is moderate. With ideal conditions, you can expect a few inches of new growth over a growing season. Patience is key with this one.

Can I grow string of nickels in water?
While some people root cuttings in water, long-term growth in water isn’t ideal. It’s best transferred to an airy potting mix once roots develop to prevent rot.

Is it pet friendly?
Yes, Dischidia nummularia is generally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs, but it’s always best to keep plants out of reach of curious pets.

Caring for a string of nickels is a rewarding experience that teaches you about the needs of specialized plants. By providing bright light, high humidity, and careful watering, you’ll be able to enjoy the unique beauty of this rare trailing houseplant for years to come. Its graceful strands of coin-like leaves are well worth the extra attention.