Plant Description
Caralluma retrospiciens (Ehrenb.) N.E.Br. var. glabra N.E.Br. is a succulent plant that belongs to the Apocynaceae family. It is a perennial herb with a creeping stem that can grow up to 30cm in height. The stem is green in color, cylindrical, and appears ribbed. The plant has small leaves that are green, succulent, and arranged opposite each other along the stem. The leaves are oval in shape and have a pointed tip. The plant produces attractive, small, star-shaped flowers that are white or purple in color and appear in clusters at the stem tips.
Origin and Distribution
Caralluma retrospiciens (Ehrenb.) N.E.Br. var. glabra N.E.Br. is native to Ethiopia and is found in the dry and arid regions of eastern and northeastern Africa. It grows in rocky areas and is well-adapted to hot and dry conditions. The plant is a popular ornamental plant and is also used in traditional medicine for its medicinal properties.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as ‘Gemed’, ‘Guna’, ‘Kavindo’, ‘Kere’, and ‘Mugudeni’ in local languages where it is found.
Uses
Caralluma retrospiciens (Ehrenb.) N.E.Br. var. glabra N.E.Br. is used for various purposes. The plant is a popular ornamental plant and is used to decorate gardens and patios. It is also used in traditional medicine for its medicinal properties. The plant is believed to have anti-inflammatory and anti-diabetic properties and is used to treat fever, diarrhea, and stomach pain. The stems and leaves of the plant are edible and are used as a vegetable. The plant is also used as a fodder for livestock.
Light requirements:
Caralluma retrospiciens (Ehrenb.) N.E.Br. var. glabra N.E.Br. requires bright but indirect sunlight for proper growth. The plant should be placed in an area where it can receive at least 4-6 hours of sunlight daily. Too much direct sunlight can harm the leaves and cause them to wilt.
Temperature requirements:
The optimal temperature range for the growth of Caralluma retrospiciens (Ehrenb.) N.E.Br. var. glabra N.E.Br. is between 20°C-30°C. The plant cannot tolerate extreme temperatures and should be protected from cold drafts and frost. During winter, the plant should be moved to a warmer area of the house or given a heat source to maintain the proper temperature range.
Soil requirements:
The plant prefers well-draining and nutrient-rich soil for proper growth. The pH level of the soil should range from 6 to 7.5. The plant can be grown in both soil-based and soilless mediums. A mixture of sand, peat moss and perlite is ideal for growing Caralluma retrospiciens (Ehrenb.) N.E.Br. var. glabra N.E.Br. in a pot. Adding organic matter to the soil can provide additional nutrients to the plant and promote healthy growth.
Cultivation Methods
Caralluma retrospiciens (Ehrenb.) N.E.Br. var. glabra N.E.Br. is an easy-to-grow succulent plant that requires minimal attention. It thrives in well-draining soil, which should be prepared by mixing sand, gravel, and loam in equal measure. The plants are best grown in containers where the soil can be easily controlled.Watering Needs
Caralluma retrospiciens (Ehrenb.) N.E.Br. var. glabra N.E.Br. requires moderate watering. Water the plant when the soil is dry to the touch, and avoid overwatering, as this can cause root rot. During the winter months, reduce the frequency of watering to once a month.Fertilization
Fertilization is necessary for healthy growth and flowering in Caralluma retrospiciens (Ehrenb.) N.E.Br. var. glabra N.E.Br. Use a balanced fertilizer during the growing season, following the manufacturer's instructions. Do not fertilize during the plant's dormant period.Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Caralluma retrospiciens (Ehrenb.) N.E.Br. var. glabra N.E.Br. However, if the plant becomes too leggy or top-heavy, you can prune it back using sharp, clean pruners. Prune only healthy stems and avoid damaging the plant.Propagation of Caralluma retrospiciens var. glabra:
Caralluma retrospiciens var. glabra (also known as Caralluma retrospiciens subsp. retrospiciens) can be propagated through different methods such as seed propagation, stem cuttings, and division.
Seed propagation:
The seeds of Caralluma retrospiciens var. glabra should first be soaked in water for 24 hours to help with germination. Then, they can be sown in well-draining soil and covered with a thin layer of soil or sand. It's essential to keep the soil moist and warm, preferably around 25°C, until the seedlings emerge. This process can take up to a few weeks or even a few months.
Stem cuttings:
Stem cuttings are another way to propagate Caralluma retrospiciens var. glabra. Choose a healthy stem, preferably with no flowers or buds, and make a clean cut, at least 10 cm long. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cutting end into hormone rooting powder. Then, insert the cutting into a well-draining soil mix and keep it in a warm and bright location. Water it regularly and avoid direct sunlight. In a few weeks, the cutting should develop roots, and new leaves should emerge.
Division:
Division is another propagation method that can be used for mature Caralluma retrospiciens var. glabra plants. Choose a healthy and mature plant, and remove it from its pot or location carefully to avoid damaging the roots. Divide the root ball into two or more sections and transfer each section into a new pot or location. Water it right away and keep it in a bright, warm, and humid place until it establishes new roots and foliage.
Disease and Pest Management for Caralluma retrospiciens (Ehrenb.) N.E.Br. var. glabra N.E.Br.
Caralluma retrospiciens (Ehrenb.) N.E.Br. var. glabra N.E.Br. is generally a healthy plant, but it is still susceptible to some diseases and pests that can affect its growth and yield. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect this plant and ways to manage them effectively.
Diseases
1. Leaf Spot: Leaf Spot is a common disease that affects many plant species, including Caralluma retrospiciens. It is caused by fungi and can be identified by the presence of small, circular spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, remove infected leaves by pruning. Fungicide application can also manage it.
2. Stem Rot: Stem rot is a fungal disease that can kill the plant if left unmanaged. This disease causes the stem and leaves to turn brown or black. To prevent this disease from damaging the plant, avoid overwatering and provide adequate drainage in the soil. Remove the infected plant and throw it away.
Pests
1. Mealybugs: Mealybugs are common pests that can infest and cause destruction to Caralluma retrospiciens. These small insects feed on the plant's sap, which weakens and leaves the plant susceptible to secondary infections. To manage mealybugs, wipe down the plant with a damp cloth dipped in alcohol or insecticidal soap. Infected plants can also be separated from healthy plants and dusted with insecticide to kill them.
2. Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that can implant themselves on Caralluma retrospiciens. These pests can cause discoloration on leaves and slow the growth of the plant. To manage spider mites, apply insecticidal soap or pesticide and ensure the plant is well-watered.
Effective disease and pest management requires a combination of preventative measures and swift action once symptoms are identified. Regular inspection of plants, clean growing conditions, and appropriate use of pesticides and fungicides are key to maintaining a healthy and productive crop of Caralluma retrospiciens (Ehrenb.) N.E.Br. var. glabra N.E.Br.
