Dischidia ruscifolia 'Million Hearts'

An Adorable Miniature Sweetheart Vine

Prepare to be captivated by Dischidia ruscifolia 'Million Hearts,' a delightful miniature epiphyte that's sure to steal your heart. With its tiny, heart-shaped leaves and delicate vining habit, this charming plant is perfect for adding a touch of whimsy to terrariums, hanging baskets, or even small shelves.

Distinctive Features

• Leaves: Abundant, tiny heart-shaped leaves that rarely exceed 1cm in diameter (approximately 0.4 inches). These adorable leaves give the plant its common name, 'Million Hearts.' The leaves are typically a vibrant green colour, but can develop reddish hues under brighter light conditions.
• Flowers: Produces tiny, inconspicuous white or pinkish flowers. While the blooms are small, they add to the overall charm of this delightful plant.
• Growth Habit: This Dischidia has a delicate, vining growth habit. Its slender stems can trail gracefully or climb with the help of a small support. It's a relatively slow-growing plant, making it ideal for those who appreciate a more compact and manageable specimen.

Care Tips

• Light: Bright, indirect light is best. Avoid harsh direct sunlight, which can scorch the delicate leaves. A position near an east- or west-facing window is ideal.
• Water: Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it's best to err on the side of caution. Water thoroughly when the top 2-3cm (approximately 1 inch) of the potting mix feels dry.
• Humidity: This Dischidia thrives in moderate to high humidity, mimicking its natural epiphytic environment. You can increase humidity by using a humidifier, placing the plant on a pebble tray filled with water, or misting the leaves regularly. Grouping plants together can also help create a more humid microclimate.
• Temperature: Maintain warm temperatures between 18-29°C (65-85°F) for optimal growth. Avoid exposing this delicate plant to cold draughts or temperatures below 15°C (59°F).
• Fertiliser: Use a balanced liquid fertiliser monthly during the spring and summer growing seasons. Dilute the fertiliser to half the recommended strength to avoid over-fertilisation.
• Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years as needed, using a well-draining potting mix. A mix formulated for orchids or epiphytes is ideal. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the previous one to prevent over-potting.

Additional Notes

• Dischidia ruscifolia 'Million Hearts' is generally easy to care for, making it a rewarding plant for both novice and experienced growers. Its compact size and charming appearance make it a delightful addition to any indoor garden.
• Provide good air circulation around the plant to prevent fungal issues. A well-ventilated environment is crucial for healthy growth.
• This Dischidia can be propagated through stem cuttings, allowing you to easily share its beauty with friends and family. Simply take a cutting with at least two nodes and place it in water or a well-draining propagation mix.