Origin of Conophytum calculus (A.Berger) N.E.Br. subsp. vanzylii (Lavis) S.A.Hammer
Conophytum calculus (A.Berger) N.E.Br. subsp. vanzylii (Lavis) S.A.Hammer is a succulent plant that belongs to the family of Aizoaceae. It is native to South Africa, particularly found in the Namaqualand region, which is characterized by harsh, desert-like environments.
Common Names
The plant is commonly referred to as Van Zyl's conophytum, named in honor of Hugh van Zyl, a well-known South African plant collector who discovered the subspecies in the early 1970s. Other common names for the plant include "living pebbles" and "stone plants," indicating their appearance and their ability to survive in harsh, rocky environments.
Uses
Conophytum calculus (A.Berger) N.E.Br. subsp. vanzylii (Lavis) S.A.Hammer is widely cultivated by succulent enthusiasts for its unique appearance and resilience to harsh environments. It thrives in pots or containers, making it ideal for indoor decoration. In their native habitat, the plant is used for medicinal purposes by local tribes to treat headaches, body pains, and stomach ailments.
General Appearance
The Van Zyl's conophytum is a small, clump-forming succulent that grows up to 4cm tall and 8cm wide. It consists of two fleshy, dark green leaves that are fused together at the base, forming a rounded shape. The leaves are covered with tiny, warty protuberances, which help the plant to blend in with its surroundings. During the flowering season, the plant produces a yellow or pinkish bloom with a diameter of up to 3 cm, which blends in perfectly with its green foliage.
Light Requirements
Conophytum calculus subsp. vanzylii requires bright to intense light conditions for optimal growth. It can tolerate partial shade during the hottest part of the day. Ideal light conditions include exposure to bright sunlight for about six hours each day.
Temperature Requirements
This plant has moderate temperature requirements. It is best to maintain a temperature range between 10-28 degrees Celsius. A temperature above 35 degrees Celsius can lead to heat stress, while temperatures below 5 degrees Celsius can cause foliage and root damage since they are succulent plants.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-draining soil and aeration for optimal growth. A mix of 60% coarse sand, 30% grit, and 10 % organic matter is ideal. The pH of the soil should be between 6.0 and 7.0. It is also important to ensure that the soil stays moist but not damp, and avoid overwatering.
Cultivation Methods
Conophytum calculus subsp. vanzylii is a slow-growing, dwarf succulent plant that requires a well-draining soil mix. It prefers a gritty, sandy, and loamy soil mix. It is a heat-tolerant plant that does well in hot conditions up to 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The plant is ideal for growing in pots or containers.
Propagation can be achieved through seeds or cuttings, although seeds are the most common method. Sow seeds in a well-draining soil mix in a shallow container to allow for adequate drying of the soil between watering. Lightly cover the seeds with soil and keep them moist at all times until germination, which takes about two weeks.
Watering Needs
The Conophytum calculus subsp. vanzylii requires moderate watering during the growing season, which is from spring through fall. Allow the soil to dry between watering, and avoid overwatering as this can cause root rot. During winter months, reduce watering to once a month, being careful not to let the soil completely dry out.
Fertilization
The Conophytum calculus subsp. vanzylii requires minimal fertilization, which can be achieved using a low-nitrogen succulent and cactus fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer once every two months during the growing season at half strength to avoid burning the plant's roots.
Pruning
Pruning of the Conophytum calculus subsp. vanzylii is mostly unnecessary as the plant grows very slowly. However, removal of any dead or damaged leaves can be done during the growing season to prevent the spread of any fungal infections.
Propagation of Conophytum calculus (A.Berger) N.E.Br. subsp. vanzylii (Lavis) S.A.Hammer
Conophytum calculus (A.Berger) N.E.Br. subsp. vanzylii (Lavis) S.A.Hammer is commonly known as a miniature succulent plant with pairs of fused leaves forming a globular shape. It is an ideal plant for propagation because it can be easily propagated by seed, division, and cutting.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method of propagating Conophytum calculus (A.Berger) N.E.Br. subsp. vanzylii (Lavis) S.A.Hammer. The best time to sow the seeds is in the spring when the temperature is warm enough for the seeds to germinate. The seeds are sown in a well-draining potting mix and kept in a warm and bright area. After germination, the seedlings are transplanted into separate pots and grown until they are large enough to be repotted or sold.
Division Propagation
Division propagation is another effective way of propagating Conophytum calculus (A.Berger) N.E.Br. subsp. vanzylii (Lavis) S.A.Hammer. This method involves separating the plant into smaller sections and replanting them in individual pots. This method is best done during the spring when the plant is actively growing. After dividing the plant, make sure to keep the newly planted divisions in a bright, well-draining area.
Cutting Propagation
Cutting propagation is the least common method of propagating Conophytum calculus (A.Berger) N.E.Br. subsp. vanzylii (Lavis) S.A.Hammer. This method involves taking a cutting from the plant and allowing it to callus over before planting it in well-draining soil. The cutting should be taken during the spring when the plant is actively growing. After planting the cutting, make sure to avoid watering too much until it is well established.
Disease and Pest management of Conophytum calculus subsp. vanzylii
Conophytum calculus subsp. vanzylii is a succulent plant that is generally low maintenance and resistant to pests and diseases. However, it is best to protect it from environmental stressors and to monitor it for any signs of infection.
Common diseases
One of the most common diseases that may affect Conophytum calculus subsp. vanzylii is root rot. This disease occurs when the plant is overwatered, causing the roots to rot. Signs of root rot include a foul odor, yellowing leaves, and wilting.
To manage root rot, remove the plant from its pot and inspect the roots. Remove any affected roots and repot the plant in fresh soil. Ensure that the plant receives the optimal amount of water to prevent further infection.
Common pests
The succulent plant may be prone to common outdoor pests such as mealybugs, spider mites, and aphids. These pests may cause damage to the plant by sucking the sap or causing distortion of the leaves.
To prevent and manage pest infestations, it is recommended to inspect the plant frequently. Use a soft brush or cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove any pests found on the plant. For severe infestations, further treatments such as insecticidal soap or neem oil may be applied.
Additionally, it is essential to maintain a clean growing environment, including the removal of any dead plant material as it may harbor pests or diseases.
