Dischidia imbricata

Dischidia imbricata is native to Southeast Asia and typically found creeping up trees in humid forests. It is celebrated for its ability to cling flat against bark, with leaves that overlap like roof shingles—an adaptation to maximise surface contact and moisture retention.

Distinctive Features

• Leaf structure: Rounded, convex leaves that lie flush against surfaces, forming an imbricated or tiled effect.
• Flowering: Produces small, pale yellow or cream-coloured blooms tucked beneath the foliage, often unnoticed.
• Growth habit: A slow-to-moderate-growing climbing epiphyte or lithophyte, ideal for mounting or terrarium culture.

Care Tips

• Light: Prefers bright, filtered light; avoid direct sun which can scorch the foliage.
• Water: Keep evenly moist during the growing season; reduce slightly in cooler months but do not allow to dry out completely.
• Humidity: High humidity (above 60%) is essential for best growth and leaf adherence.
• Media: Mount on bark or grow in a very airy orchid mix with sphagnum and perlite; excellent drainage is critical.
• Temperature: Thrives between 18–28°C and should be protected from cold draughts or temperatures below 10°C.
• Fertiliser: Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertiliser monthly during the active growth period.
• Repotting: Rarely needed if mounted; if potted, repot only when growth becomes congested.