Overview
Cacara orbicularis (Welw. ex Baker) Hiern, also known as the round-leaved cacara, is a species of flowering plant belonging to the family Apocynaceae. It is a small shrub that is widely distributed in various parts of Africa.
Origin and Distribution
Cacara orbicularis is native to several African countries including Angola, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. It typically grows in dry, sandy soils and rocky areas as well as on hillsides and savannas.
Common Names
Cacara orbicularis is commonly known as the round-leaved cacara, African milk bush, and welwitschia milk bush. The name “cacara” in Angola refers to a group of small trees or large shrubs that are used for medicine and timber.
Appearance
Cacara orbicularis is a small, evergreen shrub that grows up to 3 meters. It has a rounded shape with small branches growing from the base of the plant. The leaves are fleshy, round or oval-shaped with a waxy texture, and grow up to 7cm in diameter. The flowers are small and white or cream-colored, and they bloom from late winter to early spring. The fruits are woody and contain numerous seeds.
Uses
Traditionally, different parts of the Cacara orbicularis plant have been used for various medicinal purposes. The roots and leaves are used as traditional medicines to treat several ailments such as coughs, stomach pains, digestive problems, and skin infections. The bark is also used to make ropes, while the wood is often used for fuel.
Light Requirements
Cacara orbicularis requires bright, indirect light for optimal growth. Direct sunlight can damage the leaves, and low light conditions can hinder growth. It is important to ensure the plant receives enough light to thrive but not so much that it burns. A location near a window with filtered light or a space with bright, indirect light is best for growth.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Cacara orbicularis growth is between 60-75°F (15-24°C). It is important to keep the plant away from extreme temperature fluctuations, drafts, and air conditioning vents that can cause stress and damage to the plant. Temperature levels below 50°F (10°C) can be fatal to the plant, while above 85°F (29°C) can cause heat stress and damage to the leaves.
Soil Requirements
Cacara orbicularis thrives in well-draining soil with good aeration. The soil should be evenly moist but not waterlogged, and the plant should not sit in standing water. A suitable soil mixture can be made by combining equal parts of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite. A layer of gravel or sand at the bottom of the pot can also aid plant drainage. It is important to repot the plant periodically to ensure adequate nutrients and prevent root-bound conditions.
Cultivation of Cacara orbicularis (Welw. ex Baker) Hiern
Cacara orbicularis is native to South Africa and is grown for its beautiful round leaves and attractive flowers. The plant is generally easy to cultivate, given the right conditions.
The plant prefers a warm and sunny location with well-draining soil. It's essential to avoid overwatering, as the plant does not tolerate soggy soil. A well-draining soil mix of sand and peat is suitable. It must also be planted in a pot with adequate drainage holes to allow excess water to drain out.
Watering Needs of Cacara orbicularis (Welw. ex Baker) Hiern
Cacara orbicularis requires moderate watering. Overwatering is likely to cause root rot and eventual death. It's recommended that the soil is allowed to dry partially before watering again. The plant should be watered deeply, but the topsoil should be allowed to dry completely before the next watering. During the dormant season, the watering should be reduced to about once a month.
Fertilization of Cacara orbicularis (Welw. ex Baker) Hiern
Fertilization is typically done during the active growing season, from late spring to early fall. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength is ideal. The fertilizer should be applied once every two weeks. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant season.
Pruning Cacara orbicularis (Welw. ex Baker) Hiern
Cacara orbicularis is relatively low maintenance, considering that pruning is not necessary. However, you can trim the occasional wilted or damaged leaves. Regularly remove dead or discolored foliage to promote good plant health. It's also prudent to remove any spent flowers stem to ensure continued blooming.
Propagation of Cacara Orbicularis (Welw. ex Baker) Hiern
Cacara orbicularis (Welw. ex Baker) Hiern, commonly called "Bull's eye" is a rare succulent plant endemic to South Africa and Namibia. It belongs to the family Asteraceae and typically grows to a height of 4-6 cm with a diameter of 18-20 cm.
Propagation of C. orbicularis can be achieved through various methods, including:
Seed Propagation
Propagation through seeds is one of the common methods of reproducing C. orbicularis. The seeds are harvested from a mature plant, dried, and sown in a mixture of sand and soil. The pot should be kept moist, and the seeds should germinate within three to four days. After two to four weeks, the seedlings can be transplanted to individual pots or to the garden.
Cutting Propagation
Cutting propagation is also an effective method of propagating C. orbicularis. It is advisable to obtain cuttings from a mature plant during the growing season. The ideal time to take the cutting is in early spring. A sharp and sterilized knife should be used to cut the stem just below a leaf node. The cutting should be allowed to dry for a few days before being planted in a mixture of sand and cactus soil. The pot should be kept moist, and the cuttings should root within a few weeks.
Leaf Propagation
Leaf propagation is another viable method of propagating C. orbicularis. A healthy leaf should be removed from a mature plant and allowed to dry for a few days. The leaf should then be planted in a mixture of cactus soil and sand. The pot should be kept moist, and the leaf should start developing roots after a few weeks. Once the roots have developed, the leaf can be detached from the mother plant and transplanted.
Propagation of C. orbicularis is relatively easy, and successful propagation can result in a well-established garden or a beautiful collection of these succulents.
Disease and Pest Management for Cacara orbicularis
Cacara orbicularis is a relatively hardy and disease-resistant plant. However, it is still susceptible to certain diseases and pests that can damage or even kill the plant if left untreated. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect Cacara orbicularis and ways to manage them:
Fungal Diseases
Cacara orbicularis can be susceptible to various fungal diseases, such as leaf spot, powdery mildew, and root rot. These diseases can cause yellowing, wilting, and necrosis of the plant. To manage fungal diseases, it is important to maintain good sanitation practices, such as pruning infected leaves and avoiding overhead watering. Fungicides may also be used to treat severe cases.
Bacterial Diseases
Bacterial diseases, such as bacterial blight and crown gall, can also affect Cacara orbicularis. These diseases can cause stunted growth, wilting, and cankers on the plant. To manage bacterial diseases, removing infected plant material and avoiding over-watering can help prevent the spread of the disease. Copper-based bactericides may be used to treat severe infections.
Insect Pests
Cacara orbicularis can be attacked by a variety of insect pests, such as mites, scales, and aphids. These pests can cause yellowing, wilting, and leaf drop. To manage insect pests, use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them. Ladybugs and lacewings can also be introduced to your garden to feed on these pests.
Nematodes
Root-knot nematodes can be a significant problem for Cacara orbicularis. They can weaken and stunt the plant, resulting in low yields or complete failure. To manage nematode infestations, it is important to rotate crops, apply organic matter to the soil, and use resistant plant varieties. Nematicides may also be used to control severe nematode infestations.
By following these disease and pest management practices, you can help keep your Cacara orbicularis healthy and thriving.
