January, and a Move Toward Simplicity

It is interesting how we are drawn to different things at different times in the year. In the holiday-filled months of November and December, so many of us take on a ‘more is more’ philosophy. We indulge in rich foods, heavy decorations, and perfume from pines and paperwhites—abundant sights, sounds, and scents. I am like that. Those indulgences are part of my life. But come January, we often aim for simplicity through cleaner eating, a desire to see clean lines in the home, and something closer to minimalism. 

At this point in the year, with the huge blooms of amaryllis faded, and with bright daffodils and tulips to look forward to in distant spring, I look for simple and sweet plants to enjoy. It is as though I need a respite between the big, bright days that have just passed and the cheery, colorful ones that lie ahead in spring. In January, I aim for simplicity. 

For me, this respite does not last long: Spring often feels very far off, and by February, I am ready for red roses, chocolates of every variety, and a clutter of paper hearts in bright colors once again. Simplicity goes out the door. But for now, a clean-lined and easy-care plant—something pretty but without huge blooms and heady fragrance—is just what I need.

In January, I find myself drawn to Xerosicyos danguyi, which is more commonly known as the Silver Dollar Vine or, what I find more descriptive, the Penny Plant. With disc-shaped leaves positioned on alternating ‘sides’ of thin stems, Xerosicyos danguyi repeats a simple shape over and over.

The leaves are succulent, reminding me ever-so-slightly of those of the jade plant, although they are far less fleshy. However, the overall effect of Xerosicyos danguyi is more geometric—simple circles. The leaves are smooth and dark green, with a slight shine to them, as though they have been buffed out. Quite flat, they give the impression of coins. And the slimness of the stems and the leaf positioning really make this plant look as though it is a handful of coins that are mid-air, mid-toss. While sprays of tiny flowers do emerge in spring and summer, the leaves of Xerosicyos danguyi are its main focal point.

Now different plants may appeal to other gardeners’ desires for simplicity. But for me, the greatest draw toward Xerosicyos danguyi is that it accompanies its simple and clean form with care requirements that are almost non-existent. Does it need misting…? No. Does it need daily watering…? No. Would regular feeding help it stay healthy…? No, using fertilizer just once each summer would be enough.

Xerosicyos danguyi needs so little water in winter months that many gardeners say that a monthly soaking of this plant is the best way to handle hydration—how ideal for simplifying one’s life following the busy holiday months that just passed. If watered in a more traditional manner, then excellent drainage is key to keeping Xerosicyos danguyi growing at its best. With this minimal care—simplicity to the hilt—this clean-lined vining plant will climb with the help of tiny tendrils and thrive.

So while I soon will set my sights on lots of spring color, abundant scented blooms, and larger plants for both indoors and out, this simple-care houseplant, Xerosicyos danguyi, checks all the boxes for a favorite plant for January. It will continue to look great when surrounded by flowering beauties when spring begins. But now, at a time when I aim to simplify my environment, Xerosicyos danguyi is my top choice.  

“A penny for your thoughts?” No, I just want to clear my mind, and simplify. You may feel the same. Like me, you may be drawn to Xerosicyos danguyi.