Dischidia nummularia 'Button' – Variegated Trailing Epiphyte with Round Leaves

Dischidia nummularia 'Button' is a cultivar of Dischidia nummularia R. Br., a delicate creeping epiphyte admired for its compact growth and charming foliage. This trailing plant forms slender stems densely lined with opposite, coin-shaped leaves. The leaves are thick, slightly succulent, and a dull greenish-yellow in color, with this cultivar showing subtle variegation along the margins. Over time, it develops into a cascading mat of button-like foliage, making it perfect for hanging baskets, kokedama, or mounted displays.
 
● Distinctive Features of Dischidia 'Button'

Leaf Shape: Small, round leaves resembling coins or buttons.
Variegation: Soft, irregular light edging along the leaf margins.
Growth Habit: Slender creeping stems that trail gracefully in containers or mounts.
Collector Value: A playful, compact cultivar ideal for terrariums and decorative indoor displays.
 
● Natural Background

Dischidia nummularia is widespread across tropical Asia and northern Australia, where it grows as an epiphyte on tree trunks and branches. Its ability to form dense mats helps it thrive in exposed forest canopies. The genus name Dischidia comes from the Greek dis (“two”) and askidion (“little bag”), alluding to the paired leaves of the plants, which in some species can evolve into pitcher-like structures.
 
● How to Grow Dischidia nummularia 'Button'

Light: Prefers bright, indirect light; avoid prolonged direct sun which may scorch small leaves.
Watering: Water regularly but sparingly; allow the top layer to dry slightly between waterings.
Substrate: Best in an airy orchid-style mix with bark, perlite, and sphagnum for root aeration.
Temperature: Thrives in warm conditions between 18 – 28 °C; sensitive to frost.
Humidity: Appreciates medium to high humidity; performs well in terrariums or humid rooms.
Fertilizer: Light feeding with diluted fertilizer during active growth keeps foliage healthy.
 
● Care Tips and Notes

Trailing Growth: Best suited for hanging baskets, wall planters, or mounted on bark pieces.
Propagation: Easily propagated from short stem cuttings placed in moist sphagnum moss.
Pests: Generally resilient, but check occasionally for mealybugs or scale.
Growth Rate: Moderate; denser mats form over time with consistent warmth and humidity.
 
● Why Grow Dischidia 'Button'

Dischidia nummularia 'Button' offers a compact, playful variation of the classic Million Buttons plant. Its button-like leaves, trailing habit, and subtle variegation make it ideal for small displays and creative arrangements. Easy to grow and forgiving, it brings both delicacy and texture to plant collections.
 
● Etymology

The genus name Dischidia is derived from Greek dis (“two”) and askidion (“small bag” or “pitcher”), referencing the paired leaves found across the genus, which in some species develop into pitcher-like structures.
 
● Frequently Asked Questions

How long do the vines get? Typically up to 1 m indoors, but easily pruned to maintain shape.
Does it flower? Yes, small cream to yellow-green flowers may appear, though leaves are the main feature.
Is it good for terrariums? Yes, its small size and humidity tolerance make it well suited.
Is it beginner-friendly? Absolutely – it’s easy to grow, resilient, and requires little care.
 
● Add Dischidia nummularia 'Button' to Your Collection

With its dense mats of tiny, coin-like leaves and subtle variegation, Dischidia nummularia 'Button' is a charming trailing plant that adds texture and elegance to any collection. Order today and enjoy this playful, low-maintenance cultivar in your home or terrarium.