Overview: Ceropegia infundibuliformis E.Mey.
Ceropegia infundibuliformis E.Mey. is a succulent plant species that belongs to the Ceropegia genus and Asclepiadaceae family. It is commonly known as the funnel-shaped ceropegia or lantern flower due to its unique flower shape. The plant is native to South Africa and was first described by Ernst Heinrich Friedrich Meyer in 1837.
Appearance:
The plant's stem is thin, twining, and can reach over 1 meter in length. The leaves are opposite, 0.5-2.5 cm long, and 0.1-0.3 cm in diameter. The plant's most notable feature is its flower, which forms a narrow neck opening up to a broad funnel-shaped corolla that is greenish-yellow in color and can grow up to 2.5 cm long. The inner surface of the corolla is lined with hair-like structures, and the plant blooms from late winter to early summer.
Uses:
Ceropegia infundibuliformis E.Mey. is primarily grown as an ornamental plant due to its distinct flower shape and attractive foliage. It is often grown in containers and hanging baskets and is well suited to growing indoors, in sunny window sills, or conservatories. The plant is relatively low maintenance and requires well-drained soil, good airflow and bright light to thrive.
Ceropegia infundibuliformis E.Mey. is also known for its medicinal properties in traditional medicine. The plant extracts have been used to treat various ailments such as stomach pains, coughs, and bronchitis.
Growth Conditions of Ceropegia infundibuliformis E.Mey.
As a semi-succulent plant, Ceropegia infundibuliformis E.Mey. requires specific growth conditions to thrive. Here are the growth conditions you need to provide:
Light
Ceropegia infundibuliformis E.Mey. requires bright but filtered sunlight for optimal growth. As such, it's best to place the plant near a south-facing window that gets at least four to six hours of indirect sunlight daily. Alternatively, you may place the plant under artificial light with a fluorescent bulb that provides at least 600 lumens.
Temperature
This plant prefers warm to hot temperatures. The ideal temperature range for Ceropegia infundibuliformis E.Mey. is between 70-85°F (21-29°C) during the day and above 50°F (10°C) at night. Keep in mind that this plant is susceptible to drafts, so it's best to avoid placing it near air conditioning or heating vents and doors that open frequently.
Soil Requirements
Ceropegia infundibuliformis E.Mey. requires well-draining soil that's slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.0). The ideal soil mix for this plant is a combination of potting soil, perlite, and sand in equal parts. You can also add some peat moss or coco coir to improve water retention and soil structure.
This plant is prone to root rot, so make sure the soil dries out completely between waterings. Water the plant deeply, then allow excess water to drain from the pot's bottom. Discard excess water from the saucer or tray to prevent standing water. During the plant's dormant period (winter), reduce watering and allow the soil to dry out more thoroughly.
Cultivation methods
Ceropegia infundibuliformis E.Mey. plants thrive best in bright, indirect light with some shelter from direct sunlight. The ideal temperature for this plant is between 60-70oF (15-21oC). These plants can be propagated from tubers, stem cuttings, and seeds. You can propagate tubers or stem cuttings at any time of the year using well-draining soil mixtures rich in organic matter.
Watering needs
Watering Ceropegia infundibuliformis E.Mey. can be tricky because it is susceptible to root rot. It is best to allow the soil to dry out almost entirely before watering and ensure that there is adequate drainage. During the growing season, these plants can be watered once every two to three weeks. During the winter months, significantly reduce watering and only water when the soil is entirely dry to the touch.
Fertilization
The plant requires minimal fertilization to thrive. During the growing season, you can feed it with a diluted fertilizer solution every two to three weeks. Use a balanced 20-20-20 fertilizer or a similar fertilizer with less nitrogen and slightly more phosphorus and potassium. Overfertilization often leads to plant burns and stunts growth, so use fertilizer cautiously.
Pruning
Ceropegia infundibuliformis E.Mey. does not require a lot of pruning, but you can remove dead leaves and stems to maintain its appearance. You can also pinch back longer stems to promote fuller growth. Regular pinching back at the tips can also prevent the stems from becoming too long and leggy.
Propagation of Ceropegia infundibuliformis E.Mey.
Ceropegia infundibuliformis E.Mey., also known as the funnel-leaved Ceropegia, can be propagated through various means, including seeds, stem cuttings, and leaf cuttings.
Propagation by Seeds
Seeds from matured pods can be used for propagation. Harvest the seed pods when they are fully matured and cracked open. Sow the seeds in well-draining, moist soil mix, and keep them in a warm, humid, and bright location. Germination usually occurs within a few weeks to several months. Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them into individual pots.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Take stem cuttings that are 4–6 inches in length with at least one node. Remove the leaves from the lower one-third of the cutting, and dust the cut end with rooting hormone. Insert the cutting into a well-draining potting mix, and keep it moist and warm. In a few weeks, the cutting should produce roots and start growing new leaves. Once sufficient growth has occurred, transplant the new plant into a container.
Propagation by Leaf Cuttings
Take a healthy mature leaf. Cut the leaf's end slightly on the underside, and dust the cut end with rooting hormone. Place the leaf in a well-draining soil mix, with the cut end inserted into the soil about 1 to 2 inches deep. Keep the soil moist and warm. Roots should sprout in 2-3 weeks, with new young plants developing in a few months' time. Once sufficient growth has occurred, transplant the new plant into a container.
Disease and Pest Management for Ceropegia infundibuliformis E.Mey.
Ceropegia infundibuliformis E.Mey. is not known to be significantly affected by pests or diseases, but it is recommended to keep an eye out for common plant pests such as spider mites or mealybugs.
If spider mites are identified, consider using insecticidal soap or horticulture oil to control them. Mealybugs can be removed manually or treated with insecticidal soap or horticulture oil.
Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be identified by wilting leaves and rotting roots. To avoid root rot, make sure the soil has adequate drainage and only water the plant when the soil is dry to the touch.
In addition, Ceropegia infundibuliformis E.Mey. is susceptible to fungal infections if the air around the plant is too damp. Increase air circulation around the plant and ensure that the soil is not staying too damp to prevent fungal infections.
Finally, it is recommended to regularly inspect and prune Ceropegia infundibuliformis E.Mey. to remove any yellowing or damaged leaves or stems. This will help to maintain the plant's health and prevent potential disease or pest issues.
