Habitat and Ecology
​Pachycaulos nummularia is a herbaceous epiphytic or lithophytic herb native to Western South America, with a distribution ranging from Southeastern Mexico down through Colombia to Peru. It is found growing on damp, shaded rocks or epiphytically on tree trunks in lowland and montane forests. This species is a member of the Gesneriaceae family (like African Violets and Columnea) and requires cool, constantly moist conditions with excellent air circulation, thriving in the microclimates created by moss and decaying organic debris.
​Description
​This plant is a rare and unusual herb characterised by its slender, wiry, pendent, or scrambling stems that can grow up to 1 metre long. It is often confused with and was once considered a Neomortonia species due to its habit, but its unique flower structure sets it apart. The small, opposite leaves are typically ovate or rounded (hence nummularia, meaning coin-like) and are succulent in texture. The plant is best known for its flowers, which are relatively large and dramatic for the foliage size: they are tubular with a distinct, pouch-like shape and are a vibrant, dark red or scarlet colour (implying hummingbird pollination). The striking, colourful corolla emerges from a less conspicuous calyx.
​Cultivation
​Pachycaulos nummularia requires consistent care, suitable for a hanging pot or mount in a cool greenhouse or conservatory in the UK, or within a large, humid terrarium. It needs bright, filtered light; too little light will inhibit flowering, but strong midday sun should be strictly avoided. The growing medium must be highly porous and very free-draining to prevent root rot. Use an epiphytic mix of orchid bark, perlite, and a minimal amount of synthetic peat or long-fibre sphagnum moss. Keep the substrate evenly moist at all times—it is intolerant of drying out—and use tepid water. High humidity (65-80%) is crucial.
​Optimal Daytime Temperature:
  18-24 C (64-75 F)
​Optimal Nighttime Temperature: A cool-intermediate range is required for health and blooming, ideally 12-16 °C (54-61 °F).
​Feed monthly during the active growth period with a balanced, dilute liquid fertiliser.
​Unique Features
​This is a highly desirable, rare species for Gesneriad enthusiasts due to its distinctive flower and striking morphology. Its most notable feature is its dramatic, scarlet-red, pouch-shaped flowers that provide a brilliant contrast to the foliage. Its habit of sending out slender, scrambling stems makes it an excellent choice for cascading over the edges of a mounted display or hanging basket. Successfully flowering this rare species is a rewarding achievement for the dedicated plant collector.
​Specifications
​Plant Size: plants on mounts or in small pots with coir, lava rock. Plants propagated in the UK from our stool plant. Each prop on offer is 1-3 stems branching or not branching. With good roots and 15 cm+ long.
​Plant Family: Gesneriaceae
​Plant Passport: A Pachycaulos nummularia B 140084 C [user input] D GB