Origin and Common Names
Avonia quinaria (E.Mey. ex Fenzl) G.D.Rowley subsp. quinaria, commonly referred to as the five-rowed Avonia, is a succulent plant that belongs to the family of Portulacaceae. The plant is native to Namibia, a southwestern African country that lies between the Atlantic Ocean and the Kalahari Desert. Avonia quinaria is not only found in Namibia, but it is also distributed across other countries in Southern Africa such as South Africa, Botswana, and Zimbabwe. It is known by its common name 'five-rowed Avonia' due to the five vertical ridges on its stem that distinguish it from other Avonia species.
Appearance
The five-rowed Avonia is a small plant that generally measures up to 5cm in diameter. The plant has a cylindrical stem that is roughly 5mm thick and vertically ribbed with five rows, and it terminates with a rosette of tiny leaves that range from grayish-green to bluish-green color depending on the distribution of epicuticular wax on its surface. The leaves are fleshy and have epidermal cells that are inflated to store water. A mature plant develops multiple offsets from the base and can produce branching stems, making it a good specimen for dish gardens and small containers. The inflorescence of the five-rowed Avonia is a small, white, and star-shaped flower that blooms between late spring and early summer.
Uses
The five-rowed Avonia is a popular indoor plant due to its unique and attractive appearance that can enhance the aesthetic value of your house or office. In Namibia and other Southern African countries, the plant has traditional medicinal properties that locals burn the dried plant parts to treat various ailments such as cold and flu. The plant is also habitat for various small insects, including bees and butterflies that pollinate its flowers and birds that feed on its seeds. The plant can withstand long periods of drought, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and using in dry landscapes.
Light Requirements
Avonia quinaria (E.Mey. ex Fenzl) G.D.Rowley subsp. quinaria grow well in bright but indirect sunlight. Hence, it is beneficial to place the plant near a window that receives bright but filtered light. The plant can also be grown under artificial light, but it must be placed near a bright light source.
Temperature Requirements
Avonia quinaria (E.Mey. ex Fenzl) G.D.Rowley subsp. quinaria thrives well in warm temperatures. It should be kept in an environment that has a temperature range of 60 °F to 90 °F. Avoid exposing the plant to temperatures below 50°F as it will start to show signs of stress, and at low temperatures, it becomes susceptible to pests and diseases.
Soil Requirements
Avonia quinaria (E.Mey. ex Fenzl) G.D.Rowley subsp. quinaria grows well in well-draining soil with good air circulation. The potting mix must be allowed to dry before watering. If the potting mix remains damp for an extended period, the plant's roots may start to rot. The plant prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0.
Cultivation Methods
Avonia quinaria subsp. quinaria is a succulent plant that originates from Namibia. This plant requires a well-draining soil mix with a high percentage of sand or grit to prevent water from pooling around the roots. Planting in shallow containers or hanging baskets is ideal.
Avonia quinaria requires bright light but can also tolerate some shade. It prefers warmer temperatures between 70-90°F (21-32°C) and can tolerate lower temperatures if kept dry. In cooler climates, it is recommended to grow this plant indoors or in a greenhouse.
Watering Needs
Watering Avonia quinaria should be done cautiously. Overwatering can cause the plant to rot. Only water when the soil is completely dry, and do not let water sit in the saucer or cachepot. During the growing season, which is usually in spring and summer, water the plant more frequently. In the winter, watering should be reduced.
Fertilization
Avonia quinaria requires low to moderate fertilization. Only fertilize the plant during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer and dilute it to half strength. Over-fertilizing can cause the plant to grow too quickly and become prone to rot.
Pruning
Avonia quinaria rarely needs pruning. However, if the plant becomes too overgrown, pruning can be done in the spring or summer. Use clean and sharp scissors or pruning shears to remove any leggy or damaged stems. Propagation can also be done with the cuttings.
Propagation of Avonia quinaria subsp. quinaria
Avonia quinaria subsp. quinaria is a succulent plant that can be propagated by both seeds and cuttings.
Seed propagation
The easiest way to propagate this plant is through seeds. The seeds of Avonia quinaria subsp. quinaria should be sown in well-draining soil and kept slightly moist until germination occurs. Germination can take between 7 to 21 days, and it is important to keep the seeds at a temperature of approximately 20-25°C for optimal growth.
Once the plant has grown its first true leaves, it can be transplanted into individual pots or containers. It is important to provide the plant with adequate sunlight and keep the soil slightly moist but not waterlogged.
Propagation through cuttings
Propagation through cuttings is also possible but can be more challenging compared to seed propagation. Cuttings should be taken during the growing season, typically in the spring and summer months.
The cutting should be allowed to dry for a few days before being planted. Once the cutting has formed calluses, it can be planted in well-draining soil and kept slightly moist. It is important to protect the cutting from direct sunlight until it has established roots.
Propagation through cuttings may take longer than seed propagation, and it is recommended to keep the plant in a warm, dry location with partial sunlight until it has established a strong root system.
Disease and Pest Management for Avonia quinaria (E.Mey. ex Fenzl) G.D.Rowley subsp. quinaria
Avonia quinaria (E.Mey. ex Fenzl) G.D.Rowley subsp. quinaria is typically a hardy plant that does not have many issues with pests or diseases. However, it is still important to keep an eye out for any potential problems in order to maintain a healthy plant.
Common diseases:
One of the most common diseases that can affect Avonia quinaria is root rot. This typically occurs when the plant is over-watered or planted in a location with poor drainage. In order to prevent root rot, make sure that the plant is not sitting in standing water and that the soil is allowed to dry out slightly between waterings.
Another disease that can affect Avonia quinaria is powdery mildew. This is a fungal disease that can cause a white, powdery coating to appear on the leaves of the plant. To prevent powdery mildew, make sure that the plant has good air circulation, and avoid overhead watering.
Common pests:
One of the most common pests that can affect Avonia quinaria is spider mites. These tiny pests can cause damage to the leaves of the plant, causing them to appear speckled and discolored. To prevent spider mites, make sure that the plant is not in a location with extremely dry air, and consider spraying the plant with a neem oil solution to deter pests.
Another pest that can affect Avonia quinaria is mealybugs. These pests are white and fluffy and can often be found in the crevices of the plant. To prevent mealybugs, inspect the plant regularly for signs of infestation and use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove any pests that are found.
Overall, Avonia quinaria (E.Mey. ex Fenzl) G.D.Rowley subsp. quinaria is a relatively low-maintenance plant when it comes to pest and disease management. By providing the plant with the right growing conditions and monitoring it regularly, any issues that do arise can be caught and addressed quickly before they become more serious.
