Contents
Description
Dischidia Major is a stunning houseplant that belongs to the family Apocynaceae. This unique plant is native to Southeast Asia, where it grows as an epiphyte. Its common name, the Million Hearts Plant, is due to its small, heart-shaped leaves that grow in clusters, forming a vine-like structure.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Dischidia |
Appearance
Dischidia Major is a small, evergreen plant that can grow up to 2 meters long. Its leaves are thick and fleshy, with a glossy, dark green color. The leaves are also heart-shaped and grow in clusters of 2-6, forming a vine-like structure. The plant also produces small, white flowers that grow in clusters at the end of the vines.
Care Guide
Dischidia Major is a low-maintenance houseplant that can thrive in most indoor environments. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the plant once a week or when the topsoil is dry. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Use well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Dischidia Major prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch its leaves.
- Hardiness Zones: Dischidia Major can be grown indoors in any zone.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dischidia Major is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Overwatering can also lead to root rot, which can be prevented by ensuring the plant is not sitting in standing water.
Habitat
Dischidia Major is native to Southeast Asia, where it grows as an epiphyte in the rainforests. It can also be found growing on trees, rocks, and other surfaces. The plant prefers a warm, humid environment with bright, indirect sunlight.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Dischidia Major be grown outdoors?
A: Dischidia Major can be grown outdoors in tropical and subtropical regions. However, it is best grown indoors in most regions.
Q: How often should I fertilize Dischidia Major?
A: Fertilize Dischidia Major once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How do I propagate Dischidia Major?
A: Dischidia Major can be propagated by stem cuttings. Cut a stem that has at least two leaves and plant it in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and the plant in bright, indirect sunlight.
Q: How can I make my Dischidia Major bushier?
A: To make your Dischidia Major bushier, pinch back the growing tips of the vines. This will encourage the plant to produce more leaves and branching.
Related Plants
- Dischidia Nummularia
- Dischidia Ruscifolia
- Dischidia Pectinoides
References
- “Dischidia Major (Million Hearts Plant).” Gardenista, 2021, gardenista.com/posts/dischidia-major-houseplant-care-guide-millio-hearts-plant/. Accessed 1 June 2021.
- “Dischidia Major.” House Plants Expert, 2021, houseplantsexpert.com/dischidia-major. Accessed 1 June 2021.
- “Dischidia Major.” The Spruce, 2021, thespruce.com/dischidia-plant-care-4580633. Accessed 1 June 2021.
