Overview
Caralluma subterranea E.A.Bruce & P.R.O.Bally var. minutiflora E.A.Bruce & P.R.O.Bally is an exotic succulent plant that belongs to the Apocynaceae family. This plant is native to Somalia, East and Northeast Africa, and Yemen. It is a small, compact shrub with small flowers that grow underground.Common Names
This plant has several common names depending on the region. In Somalia, it is known as Cibadera, while in Yemen, it is called Khulanj. In Northeast Africa, people refer to it as Jicinna.Uses
Caralluma subterranea E.A.Bruce & P.R.O.Bally var. minutiflora E.A.Bruce & P.R.O.Bally has many medicinal values. The plant is believed to have potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities. It is also used as an appetite suppressant and is believed to aid in weight loss. Some people use this plant to treat rheumatism, stomach ulcers, constipation, and hypertension.General Appearance
The Caralluma subterranea E.A.Bruce & P.R.O.Bally var. minutiflora E.A.Bruce & P.R.O.Bally is a small shrub that grows up to 30 cm tall. It has blue-green thick leaves that grow in opposite pairs. The plant produces small, succulent flowers that have five pink petals. The flowers grow from underground, and the leaves and stems remain above ground. When the flowers bloom, they emit a foul smell that attracts flies, which act as pollinators. The plant has a short lifespan of approximately three years.Growth Conditions for Caralluma subterranea E.A.Bruce & P.R.O.Bally var. minutiflora E.A.Bruce & P.R.O.Bally
Light Requirements: Caralluma subterranea E.A.Bruce & P.R.O.Bally var. minutiflora E.A.Bruce & P.R.O.Bally grows best in partial to full sunlight. It is important to provide the plant with adequate lighting for photosynthesis, but it is also important not to expose it to harsh direct sunlight for extended periods.
Temperature Requirements: This plant needs a warm and humid environment to thrive. The temperature range for growth is approximately between 20°C to 32°C. It is recommended to protect the plant from temperature extremes and frost, which may stunt its growth or cause the plant to wholly die.
Soil Requirements: The Caralluma subterranea E.A.Bruce & P.R.O.Bally var. minutiflora E.A.Bruce & P.R.O.Bally plant requires well-drained soils that retain moisture since the plant's natural habitat consists of rocky outcrops and cliffs with dry soils. The soil should be slightly acidic to slightly alkaline with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The plant can grow well in gritty, sandy or loamy soils, blended with rocky materials that mimic the environment where it naturally grows. Adequate soil drainage is necessary to prevent root rot.
Cultivation methods
Caralluma subterranea E.A.Bruce & P.R.O.Bally var. minutiflora E.A.Bruce & P.R.O.Bally is a low maintenance succulent that is relatively easy to grow. It can be cultivated in pots or in the ground. When grown indoors, it prefers a bright and sunny location. It is important to ensure that the soil is well-draining. The use of sandy or gritty soil can facilitate drainage and prevent waterlogging. The plant is drought-resistant and can survive in dry conditions making it an ideal addition to water-wise gardens.Watering needs
Caralluma subterranea E.A.Bruce & P.R.O.Bally var. minutiflora E.A.Bruce & P.R.O.Bally requires little watering, and too much water can be detrimental. The plant can go for long periods without water making it easy to care for. When watering the plant, it is recommended to wait for the soil to dry out completely. The plant can be watered either from the top or bottom, and excess water should be discarded to prevent waterlogging.Fertilization
Caralluma subterranea E.A.Bruce & P.R.O.Bally var. minutiflora E.A.Bruce & P.R.O.Bally does not need frequent fertilization. The plant is adapted to nutrient-poor soils making it self-sufficient. However, if needed, a balanced liquid fertilizer can be applied once or twice during the growing season.Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Caralluma subterranea E.A.Bruce & P.R.O.Bally var. minutiflora E.A.Bruce & P.R.O.Bally. The plant grows naturally into a compact bushy shape. However, if the plant becomes unruly, stems can be selectively pruned to promote a neater appearance. Any time pruning is done, sharp and clean gardening tools should be used to avoid injuring the plant.Propagation of Caralluma subterranea E.A.Bruce & P.R.O.Bally var. minutiflora E.A.Bruce & P.R.O.Bally
Caralluma subterranea E.A.Bruce & P.R.O.Bally var. minutiflora E.A.Bruce & P.R.O.Bally can be propagated through both sexual and asexual methods.
Seed Propagation
The plant produces small seeds that can be sown directly into the soil in the early spring. The soil should be well-draining, and the seeds should be placed about 0.5 cm deep. They will normally germinate within two weeks and can grow rapidly in the right conditions.
Cutting Propagation
Another way to propagate Caralluma subterranea E.A.Bruce & P.R.O.Bally var. minutiflora E.A.Bruce & P.R.O.Bally is through stem cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Using a sharp and sterile pair of scissors, cut a 10-15 cm stem with at least three nodes. Remove the lower leaves of the cutting, leaving only a few leaves at the top. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and the cutting in indirect sunlight until it roots in about two to three weeks.
Division Propagation
Caralluma subterranea E.A.Bruce & P.R.O.Bally var. minutiflora E.A.Bruce & P.R.O.Bally can also be propagated by division. This method is best done in the early spring when the plant is coming out of dormancy. Carefully dig up the entire plant and separate the roots into several smaller sections, ensuring that each division has a few stems and roots. Replant the divisions in a well-draining soil mix and water thoroughly.
Disease and Pest Management for Caralluma subterranea E.A.Bruce & P.R.O.Bally var. minutiflora E.A.Bruce & P.R.O.Bally
Caralluma subterranea E.A.Bruce & P.R.O.Bally var. minutiflora E.A.Bruce & P.R.O.Bally is a hardy plant that is generally resistant to most diseases and pests. However, in certain conditions, the plant may be susceptible to certain diseases and pests that can affect its growth and overall health.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that can affect Caralluma subterranea var. minutiflora is root rot, which is caused by overwatering or poor drainage. To prevent root rot, it is essential to ensure that the soil is well-draining and to avoid overwatering the plant. Fungal infections can also cause leaf spots or blights, but these can be managed by removing the affected leaves or treating the plant with a fungicide.
Common Pests
Despite being generally pest-resistant, Caralluma subterranea var. minutiflora may be susceptible to attacks by common plant pests such as mealybugs, whiteflies, and spider mites. These pests can cause damage to the plant by feeding on its leaves and disrupting its growth. To manage these pests, it is important to maintain good plant hygiene by removing any fallen leaves or debris from the soil. You may also consider using an insecticidal soap or a natural remedy such as neem oil to control these pests.
In summary, while Caralluma subterranea var. minutiflora is a hardy and resilient plant, it may be susceptible to certain diseases and pests. To prevent these issues from affecting its overall health and growth, it is important to maintain good plant hygiene, provide well-draining soil, and avoid overwatering the plant. Using natural remedies or insecticides can also provide effective pest management.
