Overview
Conophytum obcordellum (Haw.) N.E.Br. var. ceresianum (L.Bolus) S.A.Hammer is a low-growing succulent plant belonging to the family Aizoaceae. It is native to South Africa and can be found growing in rocky areas and crevices in the Namaqualand region. The plant is also known by the common name "Ceres cone."
Description
The Ceres cone plant grows in a clumping habit and can reach up to 2.5 cm in height and 5 cm in width. It consists of two thick leaves that are obcordate, meaning that the leaf blade is inversely heart-shaped with a slightly notched tip. The leaves are a grey-green color and have a rough, wrinkled texture. The plant produces a small, yellow-orange flower that blooms in the late summer months.
Uses
The Ceres cone plant is primarily grown as an ornamental plant for its unique appearance and interesting growth habit. It is often cultivated in rock gardens or container gardens where it can be appreciated for its small size and intriguing texture. Some enthusiasts also grow the plant for its small, endearing flowers that appear in the late summer months.
Cultivation
Cultivating the Ceres cone plant can be challenging as it requires a specific set of growing conditions. The plant prefers a well-draining soil mix that is sandy and gritty, and it needs to be kept relatively dry between waterings to prevent root rot. The plant also requires bright, indirect sunlight and thrives in temperatures between 15-25°C. Like many succulent plants, the Ceres cone plant is sensitive to overwatering, so it is essential to be mindful of this and water accordingly.
Growth Conditions for Conophytum obcordellum var. ceresianum
Light: Conophytum obcordellum var. ceresianum requires bright but filtered light, preferably in the morning or late afternoon. Direct sunlight can lead to scorching of the plant's leaves.
Temperature: The plant prefers temperatures between 15°C (59°F) and 25°C (77°F), with nighttime temperatures dropping no lower than 5°C (41°F). Temperatures below this range can cause the plant to go dormant.
Soil: Conophytum obcordellum var. ceresianum requires well-draining soil with a high content of mineral grit such as crushed granite and perlite. A mixture of equal parts of peat, sand, and perlite provides the optimal soil type.
Water: The plant requires minimal watering, especially during its dormant phase. When watering, it's recommended to give enough to wet the soil moderately, then wait for the soil to dry out completely before the next watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot and damage or kill the plant.
Fertilizer: Conophytum obcordellum var. ceresianum does not require fertilization, and as such, it's not recommended to fertilize. If necessary, use a low-nitrogen fertilizer during the growing season and only apply at half strength.
Cultivation methods
Conophytum obcordellum (Haw.) N.E.Br. var. ceresianum (L.Bolus) S.A.Hammer, commonly known as the 'gray button', is a mesemb plant that originates from South Africa. The plant requires a well-draining soil mix consisting of coarse sand, pumice, and granite chips. The plant should be grown in a container because its roots are shallow. The container should have drainage holes at the bottom to prevent waterlogging. The plant should be grown in bright, indirect sunlight. The plant can tolerate full sun, but it is susceptible to sunburn. Therefore, it should be gradually introduced to full sunlight. The plant prefers cool temperatures ranging between 50-70°F (10-20°C). The plant is winter dormant and should be protected from frost.Watering needs
Conophytum obcordellum (Haw.) N.E.Br. var. ceresianum (L.Bolus) S.A.Hammer requires infrequent watering. The plant is drought-tolerant and can survive extended periods without water. The plant should be watered sparingly during the summer months when it is actively growing. The soil should be allowed to dry out completely before watering. Overwatering can cause the plant to rot. During the winter months, the plant should be kept dry, and watering should be avoided. The plant is dormant during this time, and watering can cause the plant to break dormancy prematurely.Fertilization
Conophytum obcordellum (Haw.) N.E.Br. var. ceresianum (L.Bolus) S.A.Hammer requires little to no fertilization. The plant can obtain nutrients from the soil mix. Therefore, fertilization should be done sparingly if at all. Overfertilization can cause the plant to grow too tall and become leggy. If the plant has been growing in the same soil mix for an extended period, a light application of diluted fertilizer can be applied during the summer months when the plant is actively growing. A balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 can be applied at half the recommended strength.Pruning
Conophytum obcordellum (Haw.) N.E.Br. var. ceresianum (L.Bolus) S.A.Hammer does not require pruning. The plant tends to grow low to the ground with a compact form. The plant can produce offsets, which can be removed from the parent plant and potted up individually. The offsets can be used to propagate new plants.Propagation of Conophytum obcordellum var. ceresianum
Conophytum obcordellum var. ceresianum can be propagated through various methods such as seeds, offsets, and leaf cuttings.
Propagation through Seeds
The easiest and most common method of propagation for Conophytum obcordellum var. ceresianum is through seeds. Sow seeds in a well-draining potting mix and keep the soil evenly moist until the seedlings emerge. Once the seedlings have 2-3 pairs of leaves, transplant them into individual pots.
Propagation through Offsets
Conophytum obcordellum var. ceresianum also produces offsets, which can be gently separated from the parent plant and planted in their own pots. Be sure to allow the offset to callus over for a few days before planting it in a well-draining potting mix.
Propagation through Leaf Cuttings
Leaf cuttings is another method of propagation for Conophytum obcordellum var. ceresianum. Take a healthy leaf and cut it off at the base. Allow the leaf to callus over for a few days before placing it on top of a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil slightly moist until new plantlets emerge from the base of the leaf.
Disease and Pest Management for Conophytum obcordellum (Haw.) N.E.Br. var. ceresianum (L.Bolus) S.A.Hammer
Conophytum obcordellum (Haw.) N.E.Br. var. ceresianum (L.Bolus) S.A.Hammer is generally a hardy succulent with low susceptibility to diseases and pests. However, some common issues that may affect the plant include:
Diseases
1. Leaf spot: This fungal disease is caused by different species of fungi and is characterized by the appearance of irregular brown spots on the leaves. The spots may grow, merge, and turn black, leading to leaf drop and poor growth in severe cases. To prevent leaf spot, avoid overhead irrigation, increase plant airflow, and reduce humidity by allowing the soil to dry between watering. Fungicides may be used as a last resort.
2. Root rot: Overwatering and poorly drained soils can cause root rot, which is characterized by soft, brown roots that emit a foul odor. To avoid root rot, always plant Conophytum obcordellum var. ceresianum in fast-draining soil, avoid overwatering, and ensure adequate soil aeration.
Pests
1. Mealybugs: These common pests are easy to identify by their cotton-like appearance on the leaves and stem. Mealybugs suck the sap from the plant and cause yellowing, wilting, and stunting of growth. To control mealybugs, wipe the plant with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol or insecticidal soap. In severe infestations, use systemic insecticides.
2. Spider mites: Spider mites are very small and may not be easily noticeable until the plant starts wilting, yellowing, or develops a silvery appearance on the leaves. They may form webbing on the plant and cause severe damage if left untreated. To control spider mites, regularly spray the plant with water to increase humidity and reduce dust, isolate the plant from other infested houseplants, and use miticides if needed.
Regular inspection and maintenance of the plant can help prevent and control diseases and pests. Avoid over-fertilization, keep the plant in bright light, and maintain adequate temperature and humidity levels for optimal growth.
