Family: Asclepiadeceae

Endemic to southern India, Malaysia, the Philippines, New Guinea and Australia's northern Queensland, this genus of epiphytic, semi-succulent vines comprises about 80 species. They are unique plants as some of the leaves are transformed into large, fleshy, pear-shaped stor­age receptacles which catch the rain from which the aerial roots draw moisture and nutri­ents. These unusual vessels are also home to ants which it is thought help to pollinate the small, urn-shaped flowers. May not be readily available in the UK.

Species

D. nummuluria is a beautiful foliage plant native to Queensland and Papua New Guinea where it is generally found growing on small trees. In its early growth stages it has small, round, fleshy leaves, some of which later develop into the characteristic pear shape.

D. rafflesiana, a native of Malaysia, Papua New Guinea and northern Queensland, has oval leaves, some of which expand to the pear shape. The flowers are a creamy yellow.

Cultivation

Dischidia needs warmth, humidity and branches of a tree on which to climb. It can be grown on timber logs or slabs, or in hanging baskets in very coarse bark. No soil is required. Outside the tropics glasshouse protection is necessary. Propagate from seeds or cuttings.

Climate

At least zone 10.