Dischidia imbricata is a fascinating and unusual epiphytic plant in the Apocynaceae family, native to Southeast Asia. It is closely related to Hoyas and is often grown by collectors for its distinctive growth habit and foliage.

The plant’s creeping stems bear small, rounded, scale-like leaves that press tightly against the surface they grow on – whether bark, wood, or other structures. This overlapping, shingle-like pattern (hence the name imbricata, meaning “overlapping”) creates a unique tiled effect. The leaves are typically olive-green to grey-green, sometimes flushed with purple depending on light levels.

In its natural habitat, Dischidia imbricata clings to tree trunks and branches, forming decorative mats of foliage. It also develops special “domatia” leaves, hollow structures that ants inhabit in a symbiotic relationship – the ants protect the plant and in return supply nutrients.

Dischidia imbricata – Care Guide

Light

Thrives in bright, indirect light. Can tolerate some dappled morning or evening sun but avoid harsh midday rays, which can scorch the delicate leaves.

Watering

Keep the substrate lightly moist, allowing the top to dry slightly between waterings. As an epiphyte, it dislikes sitting in waterlogged soil. Mist regularly to maintain moisture on aerial roots. Reduce watering slightly in winter.

Temperature and Humidity

• Temperature: Prefers warmth, 18–28°C. Keep above 15°C at all times.

• Humidity: Requires high humidity (60–80%) to thrive. Ideal for terrariums, greenhouse cabinets, or bathrooms with good light.

Soil and Potting

Use a very free-draining, airy mix – such as orchid bark, perlite, sphagnum moss, and coco chips – to mimic its epiphytic environment. Mounting on cork or wood with moss is another excellent option.

Feeding

Feed monthly during spring and summer with a diluted balanced fertiliser or orchid feed. Stop feeding in autumn and winter.

Pruning and Maintenance

Trim back overly long stems to encourage branching and a fuller mat-like appearance. Cuttings root easily in moss, water, or an airy mix.

Growth and Maturity

A slow to moderate grower, Dischidia imbricata eventually forms creeping mats of shingled leaves across surfaces. Mature plants may produce small, pale flowers, though it is grown mainly for its unique foliage.

Common Issues

• Leaf shrivelling: Underwatering or very low humidity.

• Rotting leaves: Overwatering or poor drainage.

• Leggy growth: Insufficient light.

• Pests: May occasionally attract mealybugs or aphids.

Background and Benefits

With its shingle-like leaves and unusual ant-plant relationship, Dischidia imbricata is a true curiosity for plant collectors. Its compact, mat-forming growth makes it ideal for terrariums, mounted displays, or hanging planters where its unusual foliage can be admired up close.

✅ Quick Care Summary

• Light: Bright, indirect; tolerates dappled sun

• Water: Keep lightly moist; avoid soggy soil

• Temperature: 18–28°C; never below 15°C

• Humidity: High (60–80%); terrarium-friendly

• Soil: Airy epiphytic mix (bark, perlite, moss)

• Feed: Monthly in spring/summer

• Growth: Creeping epiphyte; shingle-like overlapping leaves; mat-forming habit