Overview
Conophytum lambertense Schick & Tischer var. lambertense is a succulent desert plant belonging to the family Aizoaceae. This plant is commonly known as the Lekkerruit or juicy root and is endemic to the Namaqualand in South Africa.
Appearance
The plant is small and grows to be up to 4 cm in diameter. It has a flattened, round shape and is covered in a thick, waxy coating that protects it from the harsh desert sun. The leaves are arranged in pairs on the top of the plant and are pale green or grey. The flowers are vibrant yellow and appear in the center of the plant during the summer months, closing at night and reopening the next day.
Uses
Conophytum lambertense Schick & Tischer var. lambertense is a popular ornamental plant amongst succulent collectors. In its natural environment, the plant is used by the local Nama people to treat a range of ailments, including stomach and kidney problems.
The plant is also used to produce a range of traditional medicines, including poultices, infusions, and decoctions. The root of the plant is known for its juiciness and can be chewed as a thirst quencher.
However, it is essential to note that the plant is protected under South African law, and it is illegal to harvest or remove them from their natural habitat without proper permission and permits.
Cultivation
Conophytum lambertense Schick & Tischer var. lambertense can be propagated through seed or by cuttings. It requires well-drained soil, ample sunlight, and minimal water to thrive. It is best grown in a pot as it can be difficult to manage in an open garden environment.
The plant is best suited to a dry and hot climate and can tolerate temperatures as high as 45°C. It is important to protect the plant from frost and cold weather as it cannot tolerate temperatures below 0°C.
Overall, Conophytum lambertense Schick & Tischer var. lambertense is a fascinating and beautiful succulent that is not only prized for its ornamental value but also its medicinal properties. With proper care and attention, this plant can make for a stunning addition to any succulent collection.
Light Requirements
Conophytum lambertense Schick & Tischer var. lambertense requires bright light but not direct sunlight. To avoid sunburn, it is best to place the plant near east, west, or south-facing windows. If you are growing the plant indoors, make sure to choose a room with plenty of sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Conophytum lambertense Schick & Tischer var. lambertense is a desert plant that thrives in warm temperatures. The plant can tolerate temperatures ranging from 50°F to 90°F (10°C to 32°C) during the day and between 40°F to 60°F (4°C to 15°C) at night. However, the plant will not survive in frosty conditions. So if you live in a colder region, it is best to grow the plant indoors.
Soil Requirements
Conophytum lambertense Schick & Tischer var. lambertense prefers well-draining soil. The ideal soil mix should consist of one part sand, one part perlite, and one part organic matter. The plant can also grow in rocky soil or sandy loam, as long as the soil is well-draining. The pH level of the soil should be between 6.5 to 7.5.
Cultivation
Cultivation of Conophytum lambertense Schick & Tischer var. lambertense can be done both outdoors and indoors. The plant requires well-draining soil, and the underground stem must be placed on the soil surface or slightly below it. This ensures that the roots can access the nutrients they need to grow. The plant needs light for growth, so it should be placed in an area with about four to six hours of sunlight each day. If you are planting them indoors, get a south-facing window for sufficient light.
Watering
When it comes to watering the Conophytum lambertense Schick & Tischer var. lambertense, care must be taken not to overwater the plant. The plant needs a small amount of water regularly but requires periods of dryness between watering. Watering should be done in small quantities until there is runoff, and it is recommended to do it during the morning hours. Overwatering can cause the plant to rot, so it is important to avoid this by making sure the soil is dry before performing any watering.
Fertilization
This plant does not require much fertilization. Adding a small amount of succulent fertilizer during the growing season can help to improve the growth and general appearance of the plant. It’s best to avoid over-fertilizing because it can negatively affect the growth of the plant. The best time to fertilize is during the growing season.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for the Conophytum lambertense Schick & Tischer var. lambertense, but you can remove any damaged or diseased leaves or stems. This will help to ensure a healthy growth of the plant. If the plant grows too tall, you can cut it back to the desired height. This is entirely up to you as long as you keep in view the shape and size of the plant, and you avoid harming the healthy parts.
Propagation of Conophytum lambertense Schick & Tischer var. lambertense
Conophytum lambertense Schick & Tischer var. lambertense is a small succulent plant that is native to South Africa. It is a popular plant among collectors due to its unique appearance.
If you are interested in propagating Conophytum lambertense Schick & Tischer var. lambertense, there are several methods you can use:
Seeds
One of the easiest methods of propagation is through seeds. When the plant blooms, it produces small, scale-like seeds that can be collected and sown in well-draining soil mix. Make sure to plant the seeds in a shallow container and keep them in a warm, bright location with indirect sunlight. Water sparingly until the seeds have germinated, which can take up to a few weeks.
Offshoots
Another method of propagation is through offshoots. Conophytum lambertense Schick & Tischer var. lambertense produces offsets that can be separated from the mother plant and replanted. Wait until the offsets have formed their own set of roots before detaching them from the mother plant. Make sure to replant the offsets in a well-draining soil mix.
Leaf cuttings
You can also propagate Conophytum lambertense Schick & Tischer var. lambertense through leaf cuttings. Take a healthy leaf from the plant and cut it at the base. Leave the leaf to callus over for a few days before planting it in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist but not wet until the leaf has rooted and formed a new plant.
Regardless of the method you choose, make sure to use well-draining soil mix and keep the newly propagated plants in a warm, bright location with indirect sunlight. Avoid exposing the plants to direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves.
Disease and Pest Management for Conophytum lambertense
Conophytum lambertense Schick & Tischer var. lambertense, commonly known as the Lambert's conophytum, is a small succulent plant that belongs to the ice plant family. Although it is a resilient plant, it is not immune to diseases and pest infestations that can damage it. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect Conophytum lambertense and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Root Rot: Overwatering or poorly-draining soil can cause root rot in Conophytum lambertense, which can cause the plant to wilt and die. To prevent root rot, ensure that the soil is well-draining and dry out completely between watering. If you notice signs of root rot, such as blackened or mushy roots, remove the infected parts immediately and repot the plant in a fresh, well-draining soil mix.
Fungal Infections: Fungal infections can cause brown spots on the leaves or stem of Conophytum lambertense, and in severe cases, lead to the plant's death. To prevent fungal infections, avoid overwatering the plant and ensure that the air circulation around it is good. Remove infected parts of the plant and treat the remaining plant with a fungicide according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Pests
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are common pests that attack Conophytum lambertense by feeding on its sap and laying eggs on the plant. Mealybugs can cause yellowing of the leaves and stunted growth, and in severe cases, cause plant death. To control mealybugs, remove them manually with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Repeat this process until all mealybugs are eliminated.
Scale Insects: Scale insects are another pest that attacks Conophytum lambertense. They resemble small brown or white discs on the plant's leaves and stems and can cause yellowing of the leaves and stunted growth. To control scale insects, remove them manually or treat the plant with a pesticide that contains neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny insects that suck sap from the Conophytum lambertense, causing yellowing of the leaves and webbing on the plant. To control spider mites, increase the humidity around the plant by spraying it with water or placing a humidifier close to it. You can also treat the plant with a miticide according to the manufacturer's instructions.
By following these disease and pest management techniques, you can ensure that your Conophytum lambertense remains healthy and resilient.
