String of nickels cascades with round, coin-like leaves that root easily from stem cuttings placed on moist soil. If you are looking for a trailing houseplant that is both unique and forgiving, this succulent deserves a spot in your collection. It is often confused with its cousin, the string of pearls, but the flat, nickel-shaped foliage gives it a distinct personality.
This plant is a fantastic choice for beginners and busy plant parents alike. It stores water in its leaves, which means it can handle a bit of neglect. In this guide, you will learn everything about lighting, watering, propagation, and troubleshooting common issues.
Understanding The String Of Nickels
Before you bring one home, it helps to understand what makes this plant tick. The botanical name is Dischidia nummularia, and it is native to tropical regions of Asia. Unlike many succulents that thrive in arid deserts, this one prefers a bit more humidity and dappled light.
In its natural habitat, it often grows as an epiphyte, clinging to tree bark. This means it does not need rich soil to survive. Instead, it absorbs moisture and nutrients from the air and the debris around its roots.
Key Characteristics To Note
- Leaf Shape: The leaves are flat, round, and slightly fleshy, resembling stacked coins.
- Growth Habit: It trails beautifully, making it perfect for hanging baskets.
- Root System: It produces aerial roots that help it cling to surfaces.
- Flowers: It may produce tiny, inconspicuous blooms in the right conditions.
Because it is an epiphyte, you have to adjust your care routine compared to standard potted plants. The roots need airflow, and the soil must drain very quickly. If the roots stay soggy, they will rot.
Lighting Requirements For Healthy Growth
Getting the light right is the most important step. String of nickels loves bright, indirect light. Think of the light under a sheer curtain on a south or west-facing window. Direct, harsh sunlight will scorch the leaves, leaving them pale or brown.
If you do not have a bright window, you can supplement with a grow light. A standard LED grow light works well, especially during the darker winter months. Place the light a few inches above the plant and run it for about 12 hours a day.
Signs Of Improper Lighting
- Too Much Light: Leaves turn reddish, yellow, or develop crispy brown patches.
- Too Little Light: The stems become leggy, and the space between leaves increases.
- Balanced Light: The leaves remain a vibrant, healthy green with a slight sheen.
Rotate your plant every couple of weeks to ensure even growth. If you notice one side reaching for the window, it is a clear sign that the light is uneven.
Watering And Humidity Needs
This is where most people make mistakes. Overwatering is the number one killer of this succulent. The “soak and dry” method is the best approach. Wait until the soil is completely bone dry before watering again.
To test, stick your finger an inch into the soil. If it feels dry, water thoroughly until it runs out of the drainage holes. If there is any moisture, wait a few more days. In the winter, you will water much less frequently, perhaps once every three to four weeks.
Humidity Is Your Friend
Since it is a tropical plant, it appreciates higher humidity. A bathroom with a window or a kitchen sink area can be great spots. You can also group it with other plants to create a microclimate.
- Use a pebble tray filled with water under the pot.
- Run a small humidifier nearby during dry seasons.
- Mist the leaves occasionally, but do not let water sit in the rosettes.
Remember, the potting mix must be extremely well-draining. A standard cactus mix blended with perlite or pumice works perfectly. The goal is to mimic the airy bark it grows on in the wild.
Best Soil And Potting Strategies
Choosing the right pot is just as important as the soil. You need a pot with drainage holes. A terracotta pot is ideal because it wicks away excess moisture from the soil, preventing root rot.
For the soil mix, do not use regular garden soil. It is too heavy and holds too much water. Instead, create a chunky, airy mix.
Recommended Soil Recipe
- Mix 2 parts cactus or succulent potting mix.
- Add 1 part coarse perlite or pumice for drainage.
- Add 1 part orchid bark to mimic the natural epiphytic environment.
This combination ensures that water flows through quickly. It also provides pockets of air that the roots need to breathe. Repotting is only necessary every two years or when the plant outgrows its container. Spring is the best time to repot.
Propagation: Growing New Plants Easily
Propagating string of nickels is surprisingly simple. You can expand your collection or share it with friends. The best time to take cuttings is during the active growing season in spring or summer.
You have two main methods: soil propagation and water propagation. Both are effective, but soil propagation often results in a sturdier root system.
Step-By-Step Soil Propagation
- Take a healthy stem cutting that is at least 4-6 inches long.
- Remove the bottom leaves, leaving a bare stem section.
- Let the cutting dry for a day to allow the cut end to callus over.
- Place the bare stem on top of moist, well-draining soil.
- Press the stem gently into the soil so it makes contact.
- Keep the soil slightly moist but not soggy.
- Place the pot in bright, indirect light.
Roots will begin to form within 2-4 weeks. You will know it worked when you see new growth at the tips. You can also lay the cutting flat on the soil and pin it down with a paperclip. Each node that touches the soil has the potential to root.
Water Propagation Alternative
If you prefer to watch the roots grow, you can place the cutting in a jar of water. Change the water every few days to prevent bacteria. Once the roots are about an inch long, transplant them into the soil mix described above.
Be careful when transplanting water roots to soil. They are fragile and can break easily. Keep the soil extra moist for the first week to help the roots adjust.
Common Pests And How To Treat Them
While this plant is generally hardy, it can fall victim to a few common pests. The most frequent offenders are mealybugs and scale. These pests suck the sap from the leaves, weakening the plant.
Mealybugs look like tiny pieces of white cotton. Scale appears as small, brown, oval bumps on the stems and leaves. If you spot them, isolate the plant immediately to prevent spreading.
Treatment Options
- Dip a cotton swab in rubbing alcohol and dab the pests directly.
- Spray the plant with a neem oil solution (1 tsp neem oil per liter of water).
- Use insecticidal soap, making sure to cover the undersides of the leaves.
- For severe infestations, prune away the most affected stems.
Check your plant weekly during your regular watering routine. Early detection is key to preventing a full-blown infestation. Also, keep the leaves clean by wiping them with a damp cloth to deter pests.
Pruning And Maintenance Tips
Pruning is not strictly necessary, but it helps maintain a fuller appearance. If your plant becomes leggy, you can trim the stems back. This encourages the plant to branch out and produce more leaves.
Use clean, sharp scissors to make cuts just above a leaf node. You can use the cuttings for propagation, so nothing goes to waste. Pruning is also a good time to remove any dead or yellowing leaves.
Seasonal Care Adjustments
- Spring/Summer: Active growth phase. Water more frequently and fertilize monthly.
- Fall/Winter: Dormant phase. Reduce watering and stop fertilizing.
- Dormancy: The plant needs cooler temperatures and less light.
Fertilize with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. Do not fertilize a dry plant; always water first to prevent root burn. Over-fertilizing can cause salt buildup, which damages the roots.
Why Is My String Of Nickels Not Growing?
If your plant seems stagnant, there is usually a reason. The most common cause is insufficient light. Without enough light, the plant cannot produce the energy needed for new growth.
Another reason could be that the plant is root-bound. If the roots are circling the pot and there is no soil left, it cannot absorb nutrients. Check the bottom of the pot for roots poking out of the drainage holes.
Quick Fixes To Try
- Move the plant to a brighter location with indirect light.
- Check the soil moisture; it should be dry before watering.
- Ensure the temperature is between 60°F and 80°F (15°C – 27°C).
- Repot into a slightly larger container with fresh soil.
Patience is key. This plant is not a fast grower, especially in the first year. As long as the leaves look healthy and firm, it is likely just taking its time to establish its root system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is string of nickels the same as string of pearls?
No, they are different plants. String of pearls has spherical, pea-like leaves, while string of nickels has flat, round leaves. They have similar care needs but look quite different.
Can string of nickels grow in low light?
It can survive in low light, but it will not thrive. You will see leggy growth and a loss of the vibrant green color. It is best to provide bright, indirect light for optimal health.
How often should I water a string of nickels?
Water only when the soil is completely dry. This could be every 7-10 days in summer and every 3-4 weeks in winter. Always check the soil with your finger before watering.
Why are the leaves falling off my plant?
Leaf drop is usually caused by overwatering or sudden temperature changes. Check the roots for rot and ensure the plant is not sitting in a draft or near a heating vent.
Is this plant toxic to pets?
String of nickels is generally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs. However, it is always best to keep plants out of reach to prevent any digestive upset from chewing on the foliage.
With the right balance of light, water, and well-draining soil, your string of nickels will reward you with long, cascading vines. It is a resilient plant that thrives on a little bit of neglect. Just remember to check the soil before watering and give it plenty of bright, filtered light. Happy growing.