Dischidia imbricata aka Kidney Plant

Dischidia imbricata produces trailing or twining stems that can reach up to 1 metre in length, with a spread of 10-50cm. It typically takes 2-5 years to reach its full size. The growth rate is moderate for an epiphyte, and the plant tends to grow more vigorously when given something to climb, displaying its characteristic shingling pattern where leaves overlap like roof tiles.

Dischidia imbricata thrives in warm conditions with daytime temperatures of 18-35°C (64-95°F) and nighttime temperatures of 10-28°C (50-82°F). The minimum temperature should not drop below 15°C (59°F) as the plant is tropical and frost-sensitive. Keep it away from cold drafts, air conditioning vents, and temperature fluctuations. Consistent warmth promotes healthy growth.

Dischidia imbricata occasionally produces clusters of small, urn-shaped white to creamy-yellow flowers during summer. Indoor flowering is less common but can be encouraged by providing a winter rest period with reduced watering, cooler nighttime temperatures around 15°C (59°F), and keeping the plant slightly potbound. When blooming does occur, the delicate flowers appear along the stems.

Dischidia imbricata is easily propagated through stem cuttings. Take healthy stems with multiple nodes, remove the lower leaves, and optionally apply rooting hormone. Place cuttings in moist sphagnum moss or a well-draining airy mix, maintaining humidity and bright indirect light. Air layering is another effective method—wrap a stem section in moist sphagnum moss until roots form, then cut and pot separately.

Dischidia imbricata prefers to be slightly potbound, which can actually encourage flowering. Repot only every 2-3 years or when roots are significantly crowded. Spring is the best time for repotting. Use a very well-draining epiphytic mix of orchid bark, perlite, and sphagnum moss. Alternatively, mount the plant on cork or wood like an orchid—this mimics its natural epiphytic growth and eliminates the risk of root rot from overwatering.

Dischidia imbricata requires minimal pruning. Trim back any leggy or overgrown stems to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead, yellowing, or damaged leaves as they appear. The trimmed stem pieces make excellent propagation material. Pruning is best done in spring or early summer during the active growing season.

The fleshy, kidney-shaped leaves of Dischidia imbricata benefit from occasional gentle cleaning to remove dust. Mist the leaves lightly or wipe them carefully with a damp cloth. Avoid using leaf shine products as these can clog the leaf pores. Regular misting serves the dual purpose of cleaning and providing humidity. Take care with mounted specimens—rinse under lukewarm water and allow to dry completely.

Dischidia imbricata can only grow outdoors year-round in USDA zones 10-11 where temperatures stay above 15°C (59°F). It needs a sheltered spot with bright indirect light, high humidity, and protection from direct afternoon sun. In cooler climates, it can be moved outdoors in summer to a shaded patio but must return indoors before temperatures drop. The plant is best suited to terrariums, greenhouses, or as an indoor houseplant in most regions.

In winter, reduce watering significantly as growth slows—allow the soil to dry more thoroughly between waterings. Cooler nighttime temperatures around 15°C (59°F) combined with drier conditions can trigger summer flowering. During spring and summer, increase watering frequency (while still allowing partial drying) and provide diluted fertilizer monthly. Maintain humidity year-round but increase misting in winter when indoor heating reduces ambient moisture.

Yellow leaves on Dischidia imbricata are most commonly caused by overwatering and root rot—the plant is very sensitive to waterlogged soil. Check that the soil dries adequately between waterings and that drainage is excellent. Other causes include natural aging of older lower leaves, nutrient deficiency, or pest infestations. If yellowing is accompanied by mushy stems or a foul smell, inspect the roots immediately for rot and repot in fresh, dry medium if needed.

Brown leaves or leaf edges on Dischidia imbricata typically indicate environmental stress. Low humidity is a common cause, especially in winter when heating dries the air—increase misting or use a humidity tray. Direct sunlight causes sun scorch, appearing as brown crispy patches. Brown mushy leaves suggest overwatering and potential root rot. Ensure bright indirect light, adequate humidity (40-60%), and proper watering practices.

Drooping in Dischidia imbricata can indicate either underwatering or overwatering. Check the soil moisture—if bone dry, the plant needs water and should recover within hours of a thorough watering. If the soil is wet and stems feel soft or mushy, root rot from overwatering is likely. Remove the plant from its pot to inspect roots; healthy roots are tan or white, while rotted roots are brown and mushy. Repot in fresh dry medium if rot is present.

Leaf drop in Dischidia imbricata is often a stress response. Common causes include sudden temperature changes, cold drafts, overwatering, or shock from being moved to a new location. The plant may also drop older leaves naturally while producing new growth. Ensure stable temperatures above 15°C, avoid cold drafts from windows or air conditioning, and maintain consistent watering. After relocation, the plant may need a few weeks to acclimate.

Dischidia imbricata naturally has a moderate growth rate, so some patience is needed. However, unusually slow growth may indicate insufficient light—move closer to a bright window with indirect light. Low temperatures, lack of humidity, or poor nutrition can also slow growth. During winter, reduced growth is normal. Ensure temperatures stay above 18°C during the growing season, maintain humidity around 40-60%, and provide monthly diluted fertilizer in spring and summer.

Dischidia imbricata is susceptible to common houseplant pests including aphids, mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. Inspect regularly, especially in leaf crevices and along stems. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is generally disease-free but highly prone to root rot from overwatering—this is the most common problem. Ensure excellent drainage and allow soil to dry between waterings to prevent fungal issues.

In the wild, Dischidia imbricata flowers are pollinated by insects including bees, butterflies, and moths. The plant has a fascinating symbiotic relationship with ants (myrmecophyty)—while ants primarily provide protection and nutrients rather than pollination, they may contribute to flower pollination incidentally. Indoors, hand pollination using a small brush to transfer pollen between flowers may be needed if seed production is desired.

Kidney Plant presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.

Kidney Plant’s native range is India and China.

Kidney Plant should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

To ensure the health of your Kidney Plant, it's crucial to use a potting soil that won't hold too much moisture. A soil that drains well and contains perlite or vermiculite for drainage and organic matter for nutrition is ideal. Adding a few handfuls of perlite to store-bought cactus soil is an easy way to create this type of soil mix.

To ensure optimal growth, the Kidney Plant prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

No additional humidity is required for the Kidney Plant. Plants take in most of their water through their roots, not their leaves, therefore, watering the soil is the most effective way to supply humidity to your plants.

The growth rate of Kidney Plant is slow and it doesn't necessitate additional fertilizing. By changing the soil in its pot annually, the plant should be provided with adequate nutrition. It is crucial to keep in mind that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizers.

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.