Origin
Drosanthemum calycinum, commonly known as Dewflower, Pink Carpet or Pink Snow, is a succulent plant species that is native to South Africa.
Common Names
Aside from Dewflower, Pink Carpet, or Pink Snow, this plant species is also known by other common names including Rose of Dew, Pink Noon Flower, and African Dew Plant.
Appearance
Drosanthemum calycinum is a low-growing, spreading plant that only stands up to 6 inches tall and can spread up to 4 feet wide. Its leaves are small and fleshy, ranging from green to gray-green. Its flowers bloom in late spring and summer, and they boast shades of pink or purple with yellow centers. The plant's flowers open in the early morning and close in the evening.
Uses
Drosanthemum calycinum has been used for many purposes throughout the years. It is commonly used as ground cover in gardens, rock gardens, and as a filler in container gardens. It also looks great in landscaping since its vibrant pink or purple flowers offer a striking contrast against green foliage. In addition to its ornamental value, the plant is also known for being drought-tolerant and low maintenance, which makes it easy for even novice gardeners to care for seeings.
Light Requirements
Drosanthemum calycinum, commonly known as the pink carpet, thrives in bright, direct sunlight. It is native to the mediterranean climate, where it is exposed to full sun for most of the day. However, it can also tolerate partial shade, especially during the hottest parts of the day.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Drosanthemum calycinum is between 60°F to 80°F. It can tolerate temperatures outside of this range, but it may result in stunted growth or plant damage. During the winter months, the plant can withstand temperatures as low as 40°F, but it is not frost tolerant.
Soil Requirements
Drosanthemum calycinum requires well-draining soil with low to moderate fertility. The ideal pH range for the plant is between 6.0 to 7.5. Sandy or rocky soils are optimal as they provide good drainage. If the soil is heavy and retains too much moisture, it can lead to root rot. It is recommended to amend heavy soils with perlite or sand to increase drainage.
Cultivation Methods
Drosanthemum calycinum (Haw.) Schwantes, also known as the Rosea Ice Plant, is a succulent plant that is native to South Africa. It is a popular plant for gardens, rockeries, and container planting. When cultivating Drosanthemum calycinum, it is essential to plant it in well-draining soil. Loam or sandy soils are ideal for this plant. Also, make sure the plant receives a sufficient amount of sunlight. Drosanthemum calycinum requires full sun exposure to grow well.Watering Needs
Drosanthemum calycinum is drought-resistant and prefers to be watered sparingly. In fact, overwatering can lead to root rot. Water the plant only when the soil is dry to the touch. During the growing season, which is from spring to autumn, water the plant once a week. In winter, reduce watering to once a month.Fertilization
Drosanthemum calycinum does not require frequent fertilization. The plant can thrive without much fertilizer. However, if you want to give the plant a boost, you can use a balanced fertilizer once a year, during the growing season. Apply the fertilizer at half the recommended strength or dilute it with water to prevent damage to the plant.Pruning
Pruning Drosanthemum calycinum is not necessary for the plant's survival. However, pruning can keep the plant looking tidy and prevent it from becoming leggy. Prune the plant during the early spring before new growth appears. Use sharp, sterilized scissors to cut back the long, straggly stems. Also, remove any dead or damaged leaves as they appear.Propagation of Drosanthemum calycinum (Haw.) Schwantes
Drosanthemum calycinum (Haw.) Schwantes is a popular succulent plant that can be grown indoors or outdoors. The plant is known for its beautiful pink flowers that bloom in the summer. Propagation of this plant can be done through different methods which are as follows:
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method used to propagate Drosanthemum calycinum. The seeds of the plant can be collected from the dried flowers of the plant. Once the seeds are collected, they can be sown in a pot or a tray filled with well-draining soil. The soil should be kept moist and the pot or tray should be kept in a warm place with access to indirect sunlight. Within a few weeks, the seeds will germinate and new plants will start to grow.
Cuttings Propagation
Cuttings propagation is another method used to propagate Drosanthemum calycinum. To propagate the plant using cuttings, select a healthy stem from the mother plant. The stem should be cut just below a node using a clean, sharp pair of scissors. The stem should be left to dry for a few days until a callus forms at the cut end. Once the callus has formed, the cutting can be planted in well-draining soil. The soil should be kept moist and the pot should be kept in a warm place with access to indirect sunlight. Within a few weeks, roots will start to develop and new growth will appear from the stem.
Division Propagation
Division propagation is an easy way to propagate Drosanthemum calycinum. To propagate the plant using this method, carefully remove the plant from its pot and gently divide the root ball into two or more sections. Each section can be planted in its own pot or in a different location in the garden. The new plant should be watered well and placed in indirect sunlight until it establishes a root system.
Disease Management
Drosanthemum calycinum is generally a healthy plant, but it can be affected by some diseases:
- Root Rot: This is the most common disease that affects Drosanthemum calycinum. Root rot is caused by overwatering and poorly drained soil. To manage this disease, ensure the soil is well-draining, and water the plant only when the soil is dry to the touch
- Mildew: Mildew is a fungal disease that causes a white or gray powdery coating on the leaves. To manage mildew, improve air circulation by spacing out plants. Fungicides may also be used to control mildew
- Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease characterized by yellowish-brown spots on the leaves. To manage leaf spot, remove the infected leaves immediately and treat the plant with fungicides
Pest Management
Although Drosanthemum calycinum is generally pest resistant, some pests may still affect this plant:
- Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from leaves, causing them to wilt and curl. To manage aphids, rinse the plant with water or spray it with insecticidal soap
- Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, white, cottony insects that feed on the sap of the plant. To manage mealybugs, remove them with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or spray the plant with insecticidal soap
- Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny insects that spin webs on the plant and suck the sap from leaves. To manage spider mites, rinse the plant with water or spray it with insecticidal soap.
