Photo by Danae Horst for The Jungalow. Rad planter by Gopi Shah Ceramics.
When I first saw a Xerosicyos danguyi, or Silver Dollar Vine, I was at a nursery in Seattle and even though it meant bringing it on a 1200 mile road trip back to LA, I had to have it! With it’s round succulent leaves in the perfect shade of matte green, it’s definitely a star in my unusual plant collection. A member of the cucumber family (what!?!), native to Madagascar, this plant has a few specific needs, but as long as you cover those, it can definitely be easy to grow. Beyond it’s basic needs, if it has something to attach it’s tendrils to, the Xerosicyos danguyi is a great climber, so it makes a great plant to cover a fence or trellis outdoors, or just add some extra jungalicious-ness indoors.
Photo by ApartmentF15, used with permission.
GET THE GREEN: Silver Dollar Vine/Dollar Vine (Xerosicyos danguyi)
WATER: Plant in well draining soil (a cacti/succulent mix works well) , in a pot with good drainage. In warmer weather when the plant is actively growing, allow soil to dry out before watering- a good soak once a month or so is usually enough. In cooler months, water less- if the leaves start to look slightly shriveled, it’s time to water.
SUNLIGHT: Bright indirect light to full sun. If not kept in full sun, be extra cautious to avoid overwatering.
PLACEMENT: As it matures, this looks great as a hanging plant, especially if given something to climb on. Also looks great outdoors (and will grow quickly and spread out) if you live in a warm climate.
EXTRA CREDIT: This plant is easy to propagate via softwood (aka the young, flexible shoot tips) cuttings. Simply allow the cut end to callus over, then pot in soil. If you can’t find a Xerosicyos danguyi where you live, many online plant suppliers carry them.
WORD OF CAUTION: The ASPCA does not have information on whether the Xerosicyos danguyi is toxic to pets. As always, use caution and consult your vet before bringing a new plant into your home.
Is there a plant you want to learn more about? Leave a comment and you may find it in a future Plant-o-Pedia!
I’m looking for a new hanging plant, this might just be it. Thanks for all of the helpful care tips!
– Natalie
http://www.workovereasy.com
Of course, Natalie! Good luck with your new plant! :)
I live in Seattle! Would love to know what nursery :)
Hi Zoe! I found mine at Sky Nursery, on the north end. My mom works there actually. ;) Their inventory shifts seasonally, so I’m not sure if they have any now, but if they do, you’ll find it in the indoor plant area.
Thanks so much, Danae!
LOVE LOVE LOVE!! Thank you for all that great info!
You’re so welcome, Isabella!
Thank you for sharing this wonderful plant and the great information!XX
Thank YOU for the use of your beautiful photo! ;)
I have this plant in a hanging basket, the tendrils are probably 5-6 feet long. Glad to finally know what it is!
Glad to help, Susan! Yours sounds amazing- 6 feet long!!
I’m an interior designer from Venice.
Thanks to give me always fresh inspirations! I think soon I’ll write a post about you as my inspirational blog!
http://www.ilariacampagna.com/theportfolio
Sincerely,
Ilaria
Would u be willing to share a clipping? I’d love to try n grow this plant. I’m a beginner in the indoor gardening world!!
I am desperately trying to get one of these in Europe (NL), so jealous! If anyone knows where they are available in Europe, please share!
I found this randomly @ Home Depot, and didn’t realize how interesting it is until I brought home and started doing some googling. Thanks for all the info :)
Whaat Home Depot rarely has cool plants. How much? What town/state?
I was very excited to get this plant! It made a cloudy rainy day special. I love finding rare and common plants. I’m absolutely addicted!
Hi, I need help with my silver dollar plant. I’ve had it for 6 months and it just doesn’t grow at all. It doesn’t die, leaves are still all there but it just doesn’t have any new growth :( I have it on the window sill where it gets a lot of sun in the afternoon and I water it when its completely dry.
Please help! I read up about it and they all say its a fairly fast growing plant :(