Dischidia Formosana

Description

Dischidia Formosana is a type of epiphytic plant that belongs to the milkweed family, Asclepiadaceae. It is native to Taiwan, where it can be found growing on trees in forests, at elevations of up to 2000 meters. The plant is also commonly known as the “million hearts” plant due to the small, heart-shaped leaves that grow in clusters along its stems.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The leaves of Dischidia Formosana are small, heart-shaped, and grow in clusters along the plant’s long, thin stems. The leaves are typically green, but can have a slight purple tint in bright light. The plant can grow up to 3 feet in length, and its stems will climb up nearby surfaces if given the opportunity. Dischidia Formosana also produces small, pink or white flowers that resemble tiny lanterns.

Care Guide

Dischidia Formosana is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does have a few specific requirements:

• Water: Water the plant when the soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause root rot.
• Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
• Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix that contains peat moss and perlite.
• Sunlight: Dischidia Formosana prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves.
• Hardiness Zones: Dischidia Formosana is suitable for growing in hardiness zones 10-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

The most common pests that affect Dischidia Formosana are mealybugs and scale insects. These can be removed by wiping the leaves with a damp cloth or using an insecticidal soap. The plant is also susceptible to root rot if overwatered, so it’s important to allow the soil to dry out between watering.

Habitat

Dischidia Formosana is native to Taiwan, where it grows on trees in the forests at elevations of up to 2000 meters. The plant is adapted to growing in low light conditions and can tolerate a range of temperatures, but it does require high humidity to thrive.

Question and Answer

• Q: Can Dischidia Formosana be grown as a houseplant?
  A: Yes, Dischidia Formosana can be grown as a houseplant as long as it is given bright, indirect light and high humidity.
• Q: How often should Dischidia Formosana be fertilized?
  A: Dischidia Formosana should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
• Q: How often should Dischidia Formosana be watered?
  A: Dischidia Formosana should be watered when the soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause root rot.
• Q: What is the hardiness zone for Dischidia Formosana?
  A: Dischidia Formosana is suitable for growing in hardiness zones 10-11.

Related Plants

• Dischidia Nummularia
• Dischidia Pectinoides
• Dischidia Ruscifolia
• Dischidia Vidalii

References

• “Dischidia Formosana.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287901&isprofile=0&ht=3.
• “Dischidia Formosana.” Gardening Know How, www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/dischidia/dischidia-formosana-care.htm.
• “Dischidia Formosana: How to Grow and Care for the Million Hearts Plant.” Smart Garden Guide, www.smartgardenguide.com/dischidia-formosana-care.