Dischidia sp. Geri D22 (Apple Leaf)

Care for epiphytic roots and trailing growth

Temperature

Thick leaves can remain firm after roots have chilled, so use root-zone temperature as the guide.

Light

Give this broad-leaved Dischidia strong filtered daylight near an east window or screened from the hottest hours at a south or west exposure. Its fleshy leaves can use a little gentle morning sun after acclimation, but fierce rays through glass may bleach or scorch exposed surfaces.

Watering

Let most of the open substrate dry, then wet the full root ball and drain it. The thick apple-like leaves buffer a short dry period, but they should not be used as a reason to leave fine roots dry for weeks; wrinkling signals that the interval went too far.

Fertilising

Use a dilute complete fertiliser while this Apple Leaf Dischidia is forming stems, leaves or roots. Continue through winter only if it stays warm, bright and visibly active.

Repotting

Repot when roots occupy the container densely, the medium breaks down, moisture becomes difficult to judge or the leafy mass needs greater stability. A slightly snug shallow pot is appropriate.

Growth, pruning and leaf care

Let the stems hang or guide them loosely around a hoop, according to the current growth direction. Handle by supporting the stem and leaf from below; thick blades can crease at the petiole.

Apple Leaf growth and common problems

• Compact stems carry rounded glossy leaves: The apple-like outline is normal for Geri D22 and becomes fuller as each blade matures.
• Firm leaves drop after relocation: Sudden cold, a new light level or an over-dry root ball can trigger shedding. Restore stable warmth and filtered light, then check the mix first and water only if it has dried sufficiently.
• Lower stems darken and the pot smells stale: The roots have probably remained wet too long. Cut away soft tissue, use a small pot and loose medium, and follow our root-rot guide if decay has reached the roots.
• Brown bumps or cottony tufts gather at the nodes: Scale and mealybugs both favour sheltered stem joints. Isolate the plant, identify if the pest is shell-like or fluffy, and repeat the appropriate treatment.

Keep Dischidia sp. Geri D22 away from children and pets

• Keep this plant away from children, cats and dogs.
• Its effects after chewing or swallowing are unclear, and plant material can still cause an upset stomach.
• Contact a veterinarian or medical professional if symptoms develop or do not settle.

Where does the name Dischidia come from?

Dischidia combines Greek dis, meaning twice, with schizein, meaning to split, referring to the divided lobes of the staminal corona.

Robert Brown established the genus Dischidia in 1810 in Prodromus Florae Novae Hollandiae, page 461.