Overview
Bowiea volubilis Harv. ex Hook.f. subsp. gariepensis (Van Jaarsv.) Bruyns, also known as the Climbing Onion or Sea Onion, is a bizarre-looking, climbing succulent that is native to southern Africa and found in Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and South Africa. It is a perennial plant that is a member of the hyacinth family (Asparagaceae).
General Appearance
The Climbing Onion plant has unusual, tuberous roots resembling an onion bulb. It has a long, thin, cylindrical stem that can reach up to three feet and is covered in papery scales. Tiny white flowers appear in the summer and are followed by small, round berries that turn red when ripe. The plant climbs using twining leafless stems that can wrap around any object it touches, such as tree branches. The foliage of this plant is green and strap-like and it typically droops to the ground.
Common Names
The plant has several common names such as Climbing Onion, Sea Onion, Gariep Onion, and Inkomfe.
Uses
The bulbs of Bowiea volubilis are used in traditional medicine to treat various illnesses such as urinary tract infections and respiratory conditions. The plant is also grown as an ornamental plant and can be planted in a pot or hanging basket – the twining stems give it an interesting, quirky look. However, it is recommended to handle it with care since the plant is toxic and can cause skin irritation.
Cultivation
Bowiea volubilis is an undemanding plant that grows well in bright, indirect light and can tolerate moderate drought. The plant prefers a well-draining potting mix with added perlite. It can be propagated through bulb offsets in the summer. During the winter, it goes into a period of dormancy and may lose some or all of its foliage. It is advisable to keep the plant in a cool and dark place during this time and it only needs minimal watering.
Light Requirements
Bowiea volubilis Harv. ex Hook.f. subsp. gariepensis (Van Jaarsv.) Bruyns thrives in bright and indirect light, making it ideal for growing indoors or in a shaded outdoor space. Direct sunlight may cause the leaves to scorch, so providing ample but filtered light is important for the plant's growth and overall health.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers warm temperatures, and during the growing season, it thrives in temperatures ranging between 68°F and 75°F. In winter, it is essential to keep the plant above 50°F, as it is vulnerable to cold damage. If the temperature drops below the plant's preferred range, it may stop growing or even shed its leaves.
Soil Requirements
Bowiea volubilis Harv. ex Hook.f. subsp. gariepensis (Van Jaarsv.) Bruyns requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of potting soil, perlite, and sand is ideal. The soil pH should be between 6.0 and 7.5. It is recommended to add a slow-release fertilizer to the soil during the growing season to provide essential nutrients to the plant.
Cultivation
Bowiea volubilis Harv. ex Hook.f. subsp. gariepensis (Van Jaarsv.) Bruyns is a unique and rare plant that requires specific cultivation methods to thrive. The plant should be grown in a well-draining soil mix, consisting of equal parts of sand and perlite. The plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight and should be kept in a position where the temperature is between 15°C to 25°C. This plant is not frost resistant and should be kept away from frosty environments.
Watering Needs
The watering needs of Bowiea volubilis Harv. ex Hook.f. subsp. gariepensis (Van Jaarsv.) Bruyns should be monitored carefully. During the growing season, the soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. Watering should be reduced during the dormant season. The bulb should be allowed to dry out entirely between watering during the dormant season. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which is a common problem with these plants.
Fertilization
Bowiea volubilis Harv. ex Hook.f. subsp. gariepensis (Van Jaarsv.) Bruyns should be fertilized in the spring and summer months, using a balanced fertilizer. The plant should not be fertilized during the dormant season. Over-fertilization can result in the development of soft and weak foliage, which can make the plant more susceptible to pests and diseases.
Pruning
Bowiea volubilis Harv. ex Hook.f. subsp. gariepensis (Van Jaarsv.) Bruyns does not require pruning. However, occasional removal of dead or yellowing leaves is recommended to maintain the plant's aesthetics. If the plant becomes too large, it can be propagated by dividing the bulbs, but this should only be done during the plant's active growing season.
Propagation of Bowiea volubilis Harv. ex Hook.f. subsp. gariepensis (Van Jaarsv.) Bruyns
Bowiea volubilis Harv. ex Hook.f. subsp. gariepensis (Van Jaarsv.) Bruyns, commonly known as the Climbing Onion, can be propagated through different methods:
Seed Propagation
To propagate through seed, collect the seeds from mature fruits. The seeds are brown and small, measuring around 1-2 mm. Sow the seeds in a well-draining, sandy soil mix, about 5-10 mm deep and water thoroughly. Keep the soil moist and place the container in a warm, bright location. Germination may take several weeks to months. After the seedlings have emerged, provide them with partial shade and transplant them to individual containers.
Bulbil Propagation
The bulbils are small offsets that develop along the stems and can be used for propagation. Collect the bulbils once they have matured and plant them directly into a similar soil mix to the seed propagation method. Keep the soil moist and place the container in a warm, bright location. After the bulbils have developed roots and shoots, transplant them to individual containers.
Division Propagation
Another way to propagate the Climbing Onion is by division. Choose a mature plant and gently remove it from the container. Carefully separate the bulbs and plant them individually in a well-draining, sandy soil mix. Keep the soil moist and provide partial shade until new growth appears.
Regardless of the propagation method, the Climbing Onion prefers warm temperatures and well-draining soil. Avoid overwatering to prevent rotting.
Disease and Pest Management for Bowiea volubilis Harv. ex Hook.f. subsp. gariepensis (Van Jaarsv.) Bruyns
Bowiea volubilis Harv. ex Hook.f. subsp. gariepensis (Van Jaarsv.) Bruyns, commonly known as the climbing onion or sea onion, is a succulent plant native to South Africa. While the plant is generally hardy and low maintenance, it can be susceptible to certain pests and diseases. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect it and ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
1. Fusarium Root Rot: This disease is caused by a fungus that attacks the roots, causing them to rot and decay. Symptoms include yellowing leaves, wilting, and stunted growth. To manage this disease, remove infected plants, improve soil drainage, and avoid overwatering.
2. Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes circular spots on the leaves, which can turn yellow or brown. It can be caused by overwatering or poor air circulation. To manage this disease, remove infected leaves and improve air circulation by pruning the plant regularly.
3. Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a common fungal disease that forms a white or gray powdery coating on the leaves. It can be caused by high humidity and poor air circulation. To manage this disease, remove infected leaves and improve air circulation by pruning the plant regularly. You can also apply fungicides to prevent the spread of the disease.
Common Pests
1. Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to wilt and yellow. They also create webbing on the leaves. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with water to remove them from the leaves. You can also apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to control their population.
2. Mealybugs: Mealybugs are soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the leaves and stem. They also secrete a white waxy substance that can attract other pests. To manage mealybugs, remove them by hand or spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
3. Scale Insects: Scale insects are small, oval-shaped pests that attach themselves to the leaves and stem of the plant. They can cause yellowing, distortion, and wilting of the leaves. To manage scale insects, remove them by hand or spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Prevention is always better than cure, so keep your Bowiea volubilis plant healthy by avoiding overwatering and providing adequate light and air circulation. Regularly inspect the plant for any signs of pests or diseases, and take prompt action to manage any problems that arise.
