Tubifex · CC BY-SA 3.0
About
The genus *Dischidia* is popular among tropical plant enthusiasts, with several species, including *Dischidia oinantha*, becoming known through the houseplant trade in recent years. The plants are epiphytes that often develop unique leaf structures, such as bullate or imbricate leaves, to facilitate a symbiotic relationship with arboreal ants.
Field notes
Morphology
The genus exhibits various leaf types, including normal cordate leaves, bullate leaves (hollow, bulbous structures housing the root), and imbricate leaves (which adhere tightly and overlap like roof shingles).
Distribution & habitat
Native to tropical areas of China, India, and Bhutan’s southern borders, as well as most areas of Mainland Southeast Asia, including Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, and parts of Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Papua New Guinea.
Ecology
Many species develop a symbiotic relationship with arboreal ants, providing them with housing and/or storage within modified leaves, in exchange for pollination of the blooms.
Cultivation notes
Several species, including *D. oinantha*, are in widespread cultivation and can be kept as houseplants in temperate regions or in protected conditions.
Habitat
- Altitude
- —
- Altitude Class
- —
Cultivation
- Difficulty
- intermediate
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