Dischidia platyphylla (Dischidia)

Dischidia platyphylla is an unusual epiphytic vine native to the Philippines, where it grows on tree trunks in warm, humid forests. A member of the Apocynaceae family and a close relative of Hoya, it is best known for its remarkable shield-like leaves that cling tightly to bark. These flattened leaves often overlap one another, creating a shingled pattern that allows the plant to blend almost seamlessly with the surface of its host tree.

Unlike many climbing houseplants grown primarily for flowers, Dischidia platyphylla is valued chiefly for its distinctive foliage and growth habit. The shield leaves help trap moisture and organic debris between the plant and the bark, providing additional nutrients in its epiphytic environment. Smaller normal leaves are produced on the trailing stems, which gradually extend outward from the support surface. Mature plants may also produce small pale flowers, although the foliage remains the main ornamental feature. Dischidia platyphylla grows best in bright filtered light, high humidity, and a very open, fast-draining growing medium. It is particularly well suited to mounted culture, where its natural growth habit can be fully appreciated. Suitable for USDA Zones 10-12, it is most often grown as a specialty container plant by collectors of unusual tropical epiphytes.