Coin-like leaves may seem like an anomaly in the plant kingdom, but there is a wide variety of houseplants that possess this intriguing trait. From small leaves that resemble the coins in your pocket to larger, upright foliage, the world of round-leafed plants offers a unique and captivating aesthetic.
Key Takeaways
The Diversity of Round-Leafed Plants
Many houseplants with circular or nearly circular leaves belong to the Begonia, Calathea, Hoya, Peperomia, and Pilea genera. While the latter three groups, along with some other round-leafed plants, are classified as succulents, there are also non-succulent varieties to explore.
Care Requirements
In general, round-leafed plants thrive in bright, indirect, or partial light conditions. It is advisable to water them whenever the top two inches of soil become dry, unless specific care instructions suggest otherwise.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the most remarkable round-leafed houseplants:
1. Begonia Ningmingensis Var. Bella
Originating from China, the Begonia Ningmingensis Bella is a rhizomatous hybrid begonia with lily pad-shaped leaves. The velvety foliage displays a variety of colors ranging from dark green to purple or red, with gray-green to yellow veins.
Mature Size: 10 in (25 cm)
Temperature & Humidity: Over 60°F (16°C), more than 50% humidity
Soil: Standard, well-draining mix
USDA Hardiness Zone: 10
2. Peruvian Grape Ivy (Cissus rotundifolia)
Despite its name, the Peruvian Grape Ivy hails from East Africa. This succulent features perfectly circular, toothed medium green leaves and thrives when draping from baskets or climbing trellises.
Mature Size: 6 ft (1.8 m)
Temperature and Humidity: 60-90°F (16-32°C), more than 50% humidity
Soil: Standard, well-draining mix
USDA Hardiness Zone: 9-11
3. String of Pearls (Curio rowleyanus)
The String of Pearls, a member of the daisy family indigenous to South Africa, showcases round, pea-like leaves that elegantly trail and clump together. This plant is often cultivated in hanging baskets to accentuate its unique bead-like foliage.
Mature Size: 3 ft (90 cm)
Light: Bright, full or direct
Temperature and Humidity: 50-75°F (10-24°C), low to moderate humidity
Water: Water when the pot becomes completely dry
Soil: Cactus or succulent mix
USDA Hardiness Zone: 9-11
4. String of Nickels (Dischidia nummularia)
Originating from Southeast Asia, the String of Nickels boasts succulent, coin-sized leaves arranged in opposite pairs along its vine. These charming circular leaves, which lend the plant its name, are medium green in color. Many people choose to cultivate these epiphytic plants in hanging baskets, allowing the vines to drape and showcase their unique foliage.
Mature Size: 9 ft (3 m)
Temperature and Humidity: 64-79°F (18-26°C), standard household (30-40% humidity)
Soil: Extra organic or aerated mix (such as orchid bark or perlite)
USDA Hardiness Zone: 10-11
5. Hoya Brevialata (Hoya brevialata)
Hailing from Southeast Asia, the Hoya Brevialata is an epiphytic succulent that boasts coin-sized leaves arranged along long strings. The medium green, spoon-shaped foliage is complemented by tendrils that sprawl gracefully. This charming plant is often placed in hanging baskets to showcase its unique form.
Mature Size: 8 ft (2.4 m)
Temperature and Humidity: 60-85°F (15-29°C)
Soil: Extra acidic mix (such as orchid or peat mix)
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Continue exploring the fascinating world of round-leafed plants with the Ames Farm Center, where you’ll find an array of stunning specimens and expert advice to help you cultivate your own captivating indoor garden.
