Adromischus filicaulis subsp. marlothii x A. triflorus: Overview
Adromischus filicaulis subsp. marlothii x A. triflorus is a hybrid plant that belongs to the Crassulaceae family. It is a combination of Adromischus filicaulis subsp. marlothii, commonly known as Crinkle-leaf plant, and Adromischus triflorus, commonly known as Three-flowered Adromischus. This succulent plant is native to the southern region of Africa, specifically South Africa, Botswana, Lesotho, and Swaziland. It is commonly found in arid and rocky areas within the grasslands and savannas of these regions.
Common Names
Adromischus filicaulis subsp. marlothii x A. triflorus has several common names depending on the region it is found, including:
- Crinkle-leaf adromischus
- Three-flowered crinkle-leaf
- Succulent crinkle-leaf
- Marloth's crinkle-leaf
- Three-flowered adromischus hybrid
- Marloth's crinkle-leaf hybrid
General Appearance
Adromischus filicaulis subsp. marlothii x A. triflorus has fleshy, compact leaves that are triangular in shape, slightly curved, and have a crinkled texture, hence its common name, Crinkle-leaf. The leaves grow up to 2 inches long and have a greyish-green color with reddish margins. The plant has a rosette-like structure with leaves arranged in a circular manner, forming a bunch at the center. During the flowering season, which is usually in late winter to early summer, the plant produces small tubular flowers that are greenish-white, pink, or purple in color. The flowers have a pleasant fragrance and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Uses
Adromischus filicaulis subsp. marlothii x A. triflorus is commonly grown as an ornamental plant. Its lush green foliage and unusual texture make it a favorite among succulent enthusiasts. The plant is easy to propagate, and it is suitable for container planting or rock gardens. It needs well-draining soil and indirect sunlight. Since it is drought-tolerant, it doesn't require frequent watering. The plant is also believed to have medicinal properties. Its leaves are crushed and applied topically to treat skin conditions such as rashes and burns.
Growth Conditions for Adromischus filicaulis subsp. marlothii x A. triflorus
Adromischus filicaulis subsp. marlothii x A. triflorus is a succulent plant that requires specific growth conditions for optimal growth and development. Here are the essential elements to keep in mind when growing this plant:
Light Requirements
Adromischus filicaulis subsp. marlothii x A. triflorus needs bright but filtered light to grow. It can tolerate direct sun for a few hours a day, but harsh sunlight can damage its leaves. Placing it near a south-facing window with sheer curtains or in a bright shaded spot outside is ideal.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers warm temperatures ranging from 65-80°F (18-27°C). It can tolerate temperatures as low as 50°F (10°C) but isn't frost tolerant, so keep it protected from cold drafts or winter chills.
Soil Requirements
Adromischus filicaulis subsp. marlothii x A. triflorus prefers well-draining, sandy soil. A cactus potting mix or a blend of perlite, sand, and regular potting soil is suitable. This can ensure proper water drainage and aeration, preventing the plant's roots from sitting in wet soil, leading to root rot.
These are the primary growth conditions for Adromischus filicaulis subsp. marlothii x A. triflorus. With the proper care, this plant can thrive and add a lush look to any garden or indoor living space.
Cultivation
The Adromischus filicaulis (Eckl. & Zeyh.) C.A.Sm. subsp. marlothii (Schönland) Toelken x A. triflorus (L.f.) A.Berger plant can be grown both indoors and outdoors. It prefers well-draining soil, with a pH of 6.0-7.5. It can tolerate a range of temperatures, from 50-80°F (10-27°C).
When grown indoors, place the plant in a location that receives bright but indirect sunlight. Outdoors, it can be grown in partial shade to full sun, depending on the climate.
Watering Needs
Adromischus filicaulis subsp. marlothii x A. triflorus does not tolerate over-watering. Allow the soil to dry completely between watering sessions. This plant does well with infrequent, deep watering sessions.
During the winter, when the plant is dormant, reduce watering even further, only watering when the soil is completely dry.
Fertilization
Adromischus filicaulis subsp. marlothii x A. triflorus does not require a lot of fertilizer. During the growing season (spring and summer), fertilize once a month with a balanced fertilizer diluted half-strength. During the winter, do not fertilize at all.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Adromischus filicaulis subsp. marlothii x A. triflorus, as it grows slowly and maintains its shape on its own. However, if trimming is desired to control the plant's shape or size, do so in the early spring before new growth appears.
Propagation methods for Adromischus filicaulis subsp. marlothii x A. triflorus
Adromischus filicaulis subsp. marlothii x A. triflorus can be propagated by different methods depending on the grower's preferences. Here are some of the most common ways to propagate this plant:
Leaf cuttings
One of the easiest ways to propagate Adromischus filicaulis subsp. marlothii x A. triflorus is through leaf cuttings. Cut a healthy leaf with a sharp knife or pair of scissors, making sure to cut the leaf's base where it attaches to the stem. Allow the leaf to callus over a few days before planting it in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and in a warm location with bright, indirect sunlight, and the cutting should soon root and start producing new growth.
Stem cuttings
Another propagation method for Adromischus filicaulis subsp. marlothii x A. triflorus is through stem cuttings. This approach is similar to leaf cutting, but instead of taking a single leaf, you will take a stem or several stems, making sure to cut right below the node where the leaves attach. Allow the cuttings to callus over and plant them in well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and in a warm location with bright, indirect sunlight, and the cuttings should root within a few weeks.
Seed propagation
Adromischus filicaulis subsp. marlothii x A. triflorus can also be propagated through seeds, although this method may take longer than cuttings. Collect mature seeds from the plant and plant them in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and in a warm location, and the seeds should soon germinate. Thin the seedlings to avoid overcrowding and allow them to grow.
Remember that whichever propagation method you choose, it's important to ensure that the plant has enough moisture, warmth, and light to thrive. Good luck!
Disease Management
Adromischus filicaulis subsp. marlothii x A. triflorus is generally a resilient plant, but it may suffer from some issues that can impact its overall health.
The most common disease that affects Adromischus filicaulis subsp. marlothii x A. triflorus is root rot. This occurs when the plant's soil is too wet and the roots begin to rot. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering the plant. If root rot has already set in, it may be necessary to repot the plant in new soil and trim any rotting roots.
Another disease that can affect this plant is powdery mildew. Powdery mildew appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves. It is caused by the fungus Erysiphe cichoracearum and can be prevented by reducing humidity and spacing plants further apart. If powdery mildew has already set in, it can be treated with neem oil or a fungicide.
Pest Management
Adromischus filicaulis subsp. marlothii x A. triflorus may also suffer from pest infestations. The most common pests that infect this plant are mealybugs and spider mites.
Mealybugs look like small white fluffy insects on the plant's leaves and stems, and they can cause significant damage. The best way to prevent mealybug infestations is to keep the plant clean and healthy and to avoid overcrowding it. If mealybugs are already present, they can be removed by using a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or by applying an insecticidal soap solution.
Spider mites are another pest that can damage Adromischus filicaulis subsp. marlothii x A. triflorus. They are tiny yellow or red mites that live on the undersides of leaves and feed on plant sap. Prevent a spider mite infestation by keeping the plant well-watered and well-fed and by using a humidifier or placing a tray of water near the plant. If spider mites are present, they can be treated with an insecticidal soap solution or neem oil.
