Origin
Caralluma retrospiciens (Ehrenb.) N.E.Br. var. acutangula (Decne.) A.C.White & B.Sloane is a succulent plant species that's originally from the southern regions of Africa, particularly in Angola, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and South Africa.
Common Names
The plant goes by several names, including "Bobbejaansvygies" or "Bobbejaanspootjie" in Afrikaans, "Elandsvoet" in Dutch, and "Bushman's Hat" in English.
Uses
The plant has been used for medicinal purposes by several indigenous groups in southern Africa who believe that it helps with stomach issues, skin conditions, and toothaches. Additionally, the plant is also consumed as a food source in some traditional dishes.
General Appearance
Caralluma retrospiciens (Ehrenb.) N.E.Br. var. acutangula (Decne.) A.C.White & B.Sloane is a small to medium-sized succulent plant with greyish-green stems that have a triangular shape and can grow up to 40 cm high. The leaves are tiny and insignificant, while the flowers are star-shaped and range from pink to purple in color. The plant typically blooms from late winter to early spring, and sometimes throughout the year under ideal growing conditions.
Growth Conditions for Caralluma retrospiciens var. acutangula
Caralluma retrospiciens var. acutangula, also known as Caralluma acutangula, is a succulent plant that belongs to the Apocynaceae family. It is native to the African continent and can be found in countries such as Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Angola. For optimal growth, the following growth conditions are recommended:
Light Requirements
Caralluma retrospiciens var. acutangula thrives in bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves of the plant, so it is important to place it in a location that receives filtered or partial sunlight. Indoor growers can place it near a window that receives partial light for best results.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is adapted to hot, arid regions of Africa and requires warm temperatures to prosper. The ideal temperature range for Caralluma retrospiciens var. acutangula is between 60°F and 90°F (15°C to 32°C). In colder months, it is recommended to move the plant inside to ensure that it remains warm enough.
Soil Requirements
Caralluma retrospiciens var. acutangula prefers well-draining soil that is not too rich in nutrients. A loamy or sandy soil mix that is slightly alkaline (pH 7.0-8.0) is best. A cactus or succulent mix may also be suitable. It is important to avoid over-watering the plant as it is drought-tolerant and susceptible to root rot caused by waterlogged soil.
Other Considerations
Caralluma retrospiciens var. acutangula is a relatively low-maintenance plant, but it is recommended to fertilize it once every four to six weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer can be used. Pruning is not necessary, but if the plant becomes too leggy, it can be pinched back to encourage bushier growth.
Cultivation methods
Caralluma retrospiciens (Ehrenb.) N.E.Br. var. acutangula (Decne.) A.C.White & B.Sloane is a succulent plant that can be grown outdoors in warm regions or indoors in containers. It prefers well-draining soil, plenty of sunlight, and warm temperatures.
When growing this plant indoors, choose a pot with drainage holes and use a cactus or succulent potting mix. Outdoors, plant in sandy or rocky soil. This plant can be propagated by stem cuttings or seeds, but stem cuttings are the preferred method.
Watering needs
Caralluma retrospiciens (Ehrenb.) N.E.Br. var. acutangula (Decne.) A.C.White & B.Sloane is a drought-tolerant plant that does not need a lot of water. Water sparingly, only when the soil becomes completely dry. Overwatering can cause root rot and kill the plant.
When watering, pour water into the soil around the base of the plant, being careful not to get water on the leaves. Allow the soil to absorb the water fully before placing the plant back in its container or watering again.
Fertilization
Caralluma retrospiciens (Ehrenb.) N.E.Br. var. acutangula (Decne.) A.C.White & B.Sloane does not require a lot of fertilizer, but occasional feeding will help it grow strong and healthy. Use a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, diluted to half strength.
Fertilize once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) and reduce fertilization to every two months during the fall and winter months when the plant is dormant.
Pruning
Pruning Caralluma retrospiciens (Ehrenb.) N.E.Br. var. acutangula (Decne.) A.C.White & B.Sloane is not necessary, but it can be done to maintain the desired shape and size of the plant. Pruning is best done in the spring before the growing season begins.
To prune, use sharp, clean scissors to cut back any unruly or diseased growth or to shape the plant. When trimming, be careful not to damage the stem or leaves, as this can lead to scarring or infection.
Propagation of Caralluma retrospiciens var. acutangula
Caralluma retrospiciens var. acutangula can be propagated through seeds, stem cuttings, and division.
Propagation through seeds:
The plant produces small black seeds that can be collected when ripe, dried, and stored until the next planting season. The seeds can be sown in a well-draining soil mix and should be lightly covered with soil. The soil should be kept moist during germination, which can take up to six weeks.
Propagation through stem cuttings:
The stem of the plant can be cut into several sections of about 10 cm in length, making sure each section has at least one node. The cuttings should be allowed to dry for a few days to prevent rotting before planting in well-draining soil. It's recommended to use a rooting hormone to help with the formation of roots. Keep the soil moist until the cuttings have established roots and show signs of new growth.
Propagation through division:
The plant can be divided when it has become too large for its current container. Simply remove the plant from the pot and gently separate the roots. Each new division should have several stems and a healthy root system. The new divisions can then be potted into fresh soil.
Disease Management for Caralluma retrospiciens var. acutangula
Plant diseases can have a significant impact on the growth and survival of Caralluma retrospiciens var. acutangula. The following are some of the common diseases that can affect the plant:
- Leaf spot: This is a fungal disease that causes brown or black spots on the leaves of the plant. It can be prevented by avoiding overhead watering and ensuring good air circulation around the plant. Affected leaves should be removed and destroyed.
- Root rot: This is a soil-borne fungal disease that causes the roots of the plant to rot, eventually resulting in the death of the plant. It can be prevented by ensuring that the soil is well-drained and not overly wet. Fungicidal treatments can be used to control the disease.
- Virus diseases: Several virus diseases can affect Caralluma retrospiciens var. acutangula, including cucumber mosaic virus and tomato spotted wilt virus. Infected plants should be removed and destroyed to prevent the spread of the disease.
Pest Management for Caralluma retrospiciens var. acutangula
Pests can also pose a threat to the growth and survival of Caralluma retrospiciens var. acutangula. The following are some of the common pests that can affect the plant:
- Aphids: These small insects can cause damage to the leaves of the plant by sucking sap from the leaves. They can be controlled through the use of insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Whiteflies: These tiny insects can cause significant damage to the leaves of the plant by feeding on them and spreading viral diseases. They can be controlled through the use of yellow sticky traps or insecticidal soap.
- Spider mites: These small mites can cause damage to the leaves of the plant by feeding on them and causing discoloration. They can be controlled through the use of insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Scale insects: These insects can appear as small bumps on the leaves and stems of the plant. They can be controlled through the use of insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Regular monitoring of the plant for signs of pests and diseases is crucial in preventing their spread and minimizing their impact on the plant. It is also important to follow good cultural practices, such as providing the plant with adequate sunlight, water, and nutrients, in order to keep it healthy and resistant to pests and diseases.
