Round leaves that form cavities, growing its own "pot" so to speak

Dischidia platyphylla is a species from Southeast Asia (the Philippines and French Polynesia) with large, round leaves that cling tightly to a surface. In the wild, it grows epiphytically on larger trees, and older plants can form dense mats around tree trunks.

The round, surprisingly thick leaves press tightly against their substrate, and the plant anchors itself with numerous clinging roots. The leaves then curl slightly upwards, creating a small cavity underneath. Moisture can be well-maintained in this cavity, providing the plant with water during prolonged dry periods. Trees that are densely overgrown with Dischidia platyphylla look a bit like they have a strange green rash.

From a certain size, Dischidia platyphylla then forms so-called "ant leaves." These are larger and usually do not rest against a surface, but instead curve until they form a hollow sphere. Small, stinging ants then move into these ant leaves and protect their new home, and thus the plant at the same time. Furthermore, some roots also grow into the ant leaves. Through these, the plant absorbs nutrients brought to the nest by the ants. However, this is not, as is often claimed, the ants' excrement (ants are too smart to defecate in their own nests), but rather small amounts of dust and soil that the ants carry into the nest on their feet. Dischidia platyphylla thus practically grows its own pot.

The plant produces pink flowers.

Care

Can also be kept as a trailing plant indoors, but you do not really see its natural growth habit that way. We therefore strongly recommend that you provide it with a piece of wood or cork to grow on. Suitable, for example, for a hanging pot in orchid substrate, mounted on wood or cork, or in a terrarium on moss. It develops most beautifully when it can climb on a somewhat rough surface.

Humid air and a bright location are optimal but not a necessity. It can handle slightly cooler temperatures in winter, but should then be watered very sparingly.

Ideal temperature 20-28°C. Water moderately and allow to dry slightly between waterings. Buy Dischidia platyphylla online!