Origin
Caralluma dicapuae (Chiov.) A.C.White & B.Sloane subsp. turneri (E.A.Bruce) P.R.O.Bally belongs to the Apocynaceae family, which is native to Southwestern Africa, particularly Namibia and Angola.
Common Names
Some of the common names for the plant Caralluma dicapuae (Chiov.) A.C.White & B.Sloane subsp. turneri (E.A.Bruce) P.R.O.Bally include edible cactus, caralluma fimbriata, and the African cactus.
Uses
The plant Caralluma dicapuae has been used traditionally as a source of food and medicine in Namibia and Angola. The plant extract is known to have appetite-suppressant properties and is used as a natural weight loss supplement. Additionally, Caralluma dicapuae is believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can be beneficial to human health.
General Appearance
Caralluma dicapuae is a succulent plant that thrives in warm and dry climates. The stems of the plant are green in color and have a slightly ribbed surface. The plant has small and distinct yellow or white flowers that bloom at the top of the stems. The leaves of the plant are rudimentary and are often reduced to small spines. The plant can reach up to 30 cm in height and can spread up to 20 cm in width.
Growth Conditions for Caralluma dicapuae subsp. turneri
Caralluma dicapuae subsp. turneri is a succulent plant native to Kenya and Tanzania. It is a slow-growing plant and requires specific growth conditions to thrive.
Light
This plant requires bright but indirect sunlight to grow properly. Too much direct sunlight can damage the leaves and cause sunburn. The ideal location for this plant is near a window that receives bright but filtered light.
Temperature
Caralluma dicapuae subsp. turneri prefers warm temperatures between 60-80°F (15-27°C). It is important to keep the plant away from cold drafts and extreme temperature changes.
Soil
This succulent plant requires well-draining soil. It can be grown in a mixture of cactus soil and perlite or in a mixture of sand and regular potting soil. The soil should be allowed to dry out completely before watering to prevent root rot.
Watering
Caralluma dicapuae subsp. turneri is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Water the plant only when the soil is completely dry. Overwatering can damage the roots and cause the plant to rot.
Fertilizer
This plant does not require frequent fertilization. You can use a balanced liquid fertilizer during the plant's growing season (spring to fall) to promote healthy growth. Fertilizer should be applied sparingly, following the directions on the package.
By following these growth conditions, you can successfully grow and maintain Caralluma dicapuae subsp. turneri in your home or garden.
Cultivation Methods
Caralluma dicapuae (Chiov.) A.C.White & B.Sloane subsp. turneri (E.A.Bruce) P.R.O.Bally is a plant that can be grown in containers or in the garden. For container cultivation, choose a pot that is two inches larger than the root ball and has good drainage. The soil should be well-draining and sandy with a slightly acidic pH of 6.0 to 7.0. The plant needs a lot of sunlight and can withstand high temperatures, making it suitable for outdoor cultivation in areas with warm climates.
Watering Needs
When it comes to watering, Caralluma dicapuae (Chiov.) A.C.White & B.Sloane subsp. turneri (E.A.Bruce) P.R.O.Bally needs to be watered regularly during the growing season, which is typically from spring through fall. Allow the soil to dry slightly between watering, as too much water can lead to root rot. During winter, reduce watering to once a month as the plant goes dormant.
Fertilization
Fertilize Caralluma dicapuae (Chiov.) A.C.White & B.Sloane subsp. turneri (E.A.Bruce) P.R.O.Bally every three months with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Alternatively, use a liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength and apply it every two weeks during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilization as it can lead to weak growth and reduced flowering.
Pruning
Prune Caralluma dicapuae (Chiov.) A.C.White & B.Sloane subsp. turneri (E.A.Bruce) P.R.O.Bally in early spring to remove dead or damaged branches and promote new growth. The plant can grow up to 12 inches tall by 12 inches wide, making it suitable for use as a ground cover or a specimen plant in a container. Pinch the tips of each branch to encourage bushier growth and more flowering.
Propagation of Caralluma dicapuae subsp. turneri
Caralluma dicapuae subsp. turneri is a succulent plant that can be propagated by various methods. The plant has a natural ability to produce offspring. But for propagation, some methods can be used to increase the numbers of plants.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
One way of propagating Caralluma dicapuae subsp. turneri is by using stem cuttings. Take healthy stem cuttings from the parent plant, usually from the tip or nodes of the stem. Let the cuttings dry out for 1-2 days before planting them in well-draining soil, and keep the soil moist. After a few weeks, new growth should emerge, indicating that rooting has occurred.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation by seeds is another option for Caralluma dicapuae subsp. turneri. Collect the mature fruits from the parent plant, and remove the seeds from the fruit pulp. Sow the seeds in a well-draining potting mix, and keep the soil moist. Seeds typically germinate within 14-21 days. Once the seedlings are established, transplant them into the desired location.
Propagation by Division
Propagation by division is another method that can be used for Caralluma dicapuae subsp. turneri. Carefully remove the parent plant from its container or the ground and separate the plant into individual sections, making sure each section has some roots attached. Transplant the divided sections into new containers or directly into the ground, and water as needed.
Disease and Pest Management for Caralluma dicapuae subsp. turneri
Caralluma dicapuae subsp. turneri is a unique succulent plant that can thrive in harsh conditions. However, it is not immune to diseases and pests. The following are the most common diseases and pests that might affect this plant and ways to manage them.
Diseases
Fungal Diseases: Fungal diseases like root rot, stem rot, and leaf spots are common in Caralluma dicapuae subsp. turneri. These diseases are caused by excessive moisture, poor ventilation, and contaminated soil. To manage fungal diseases, you must ensure that the soil is well-draining, and the plant is not overwatered. If the plant is affected, remove the damaged parts and apply a fungicide to the affected areas.
Viral Diseases: Viral diseases are rare in Caralluma dicapuae subsp. turneri, but they can occur. These diseases are usually spread by infected insects and are difficult to manage. Once a plant is infected, it should be removed and destroyed to prevent the spread of the disease to other plants.
Bacterial Diseases: Bacterial diseases like bacterial soft rot can affect Caralluma dicapuae subsp. turneri. These diseases are caused by bacteria that thrive in moist environments. To manage bacterial diseases, you must ensure that the soil is well-draining and the plant is not overwatered. If the plant is affected, remove the damaged parts, and apply a bactericide to the affected areas.
Pests
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are common pests that can affect Caralluma dicapuae subsp. turneri. These pests are small, white insects that feed on the plant's sap. To manage mealybugs, you can remove them manually using a cotton swab dipped in alcohol. You can also use insecticides to kill them.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are common pests that can cause discoloration, wilting, and death of the plant. To manage spider mites, you can use insecticides or introduce predator mites that feed on them.
Scale Insects: Scale insects are small, immobile pests that suck the plant's sap, causing yellowing and wilting. To manage scale insects, you can use insecticides or remove them manually using a cotton swab dipped in alcohol.
By being vigilant and applying appropriate measures immediately, you can manage diseases and pests. With good care, Caralluma dicapuae subsp. turneri can thrive and beautify your garden or landscape.
