Overview
Duvalia glomerata Haw., also known as the carrion plant, is a succulent plant species that belongs to the family Apocynaceae. The plant is native to different parts of Africa, especially the southern and eastern regions.
Appearance
The Duvalia glomerata plant has a distinct look. It is a low-growing, spreading succulent plant that has lance-shaped leaves. The leaves are thick and fleshy, and they are dark green in color. The carrion plant also produces unique flowers that are quite striking. The flowers are a deep maroon or brownish-purple color. They have a crown of hairy, triangular lobes on top and a circle of short, fleshy petals underneath.
Uses
The carrion plant has a unique smell that is similar to decaying flesh. This smell is caused by the nectar produced by the flower to attract flies and other insects for pollination. In traditional African medicine, the plant is used for various purposes. The sap of the plant is believed to have medicinal properties that can be used to treat snakebites, infertility, and various skin conditions like eczema. The carrion plant is also used as an ornamental plant in gardens and homes.
Common names
The Duvalia glomerata plant is known by various common names. Some of the common names include the carrion plant, starfish flower, and starflower. In South Africa, the plant is called “bobbejaankos,” which means “monkey food” in Afrikaans because the plant was reportedly eaten by bushbabies and monkeys.
Overall, Duvalia glomerata Haw. is a unique plant species with special characteristics that make it stand out in gardens and attract pollinators.Growth Conditions for Duvalia glomerata Haw.
Duvalia glomerata Haw. is a succulent plant species that is native to the desert regions of southern Africa. This plant has certain growth conditions that must be met to ensure its healthy growth and development.
Light
The plant prefers bright but indirect sunlight. It can also tolerate partial shade. It is important to avoid direct sunlight as it can cause damage to the plant’s leaves and cause it to wither.
Temperature
The optimum temperature range for the growth of Duvalia glomerata Haw. is between 20°C to 30°C in the day time and 10°C to 20°C at night. This plant cannot tolerate frost or extreme temperatures and direct exposure to cold winds.
Soil
The plant requires a well-drained soil that has good water holding capacity. The soil should be slightly acidic, with a pH range of 5.5-6.5. The plant should be planted in a mixture of equal parts sand, peat, and perlite or sand, compost, and pumice. The presence of organic matter in the soil is also beneficial to the plant’s growth.
Water
Duvalia glomerata Haw. is a drought-tolerant plant and does not require frequent watering. It is recommended to water this plant deeply but infrequently. The frequency of watering can be determined by the moisture level of the soil. The soil should dry out a bit between watering to avoid root rot.
Fertilizer
The plant does not require frequent fertilization. Organic compost or a balanced fertilizer can be applied once a year during the growing season, i.e., in spring or summer, to enhance the plant's growth. Over-fertilizing should be avoided as it can result in leaf loss or can damage the plant.
Cultivation Methods for Duvalia Glomerata Haw.
Duvalia glomerata Haw. is a succulent plant that is native to the African continent. If you plan to cultivate this plant, ensure that you have well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The plant requires temperatures between 60 and 85°F (16 and 29°C) to grow. Since it's a succulent, it prefers a dry environment with low humidity levels.
When propagating Duvalia glomerata Haw., take cuttings of 4 to 6 inches long from the stem's tips. Plant the cuttings and water them sparingly. Ensure you keep the soil moist but not wet. After two to three weeks, the cuttings will start developing roots.
Watering Needs for Duvalia Glomerata Haw.
Duvalia glomerata Haw. is a succulent plant that requires little watering. Water the plant sparsely during the growing season and allow the soil to dry out completely between watering sessions. Over-watering a succulent could lead to root rot or other fungal diseases. During its dormant period in winter, reduce watering to keep the soil almost dry.
Fertilization for Duvalia Glomerata Haw.
When cultivating Duvalia glomerata Haw., fertilize the plant lightly once every two months using a liquid fertilizer formulated for cacti and succulents. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant period in winter. Over-fertilizing could lead to root damage and other adverse effects.
Pruning Duvalia Glomerata Haw.
Pruning is beneficial for the plant as it prevents it from becoming leggy and helps the plant maintain its shape. Prune your plant in the spring by cutting back the shoots to the desired size. Use clean, sharp tools when pruning the plant to prevent introducing diseases. Also, remove any dead or damaged leaves as soon as possible.
Propagation of Duvalia glomerata Haw.
Duvalia glomerata Haw. can be propagated by different methods such as:
Seed propagation
Seeds collected from ripened fruits of the plant can be used for propagation. The seeds are cleaned, dried and sown in a well-draining soil mix. A plastic cover or a glass sheet can be used to cover the pot to maintain soil humidity. The pot should be kept in a warm place with bright, indirect sunlight. Germination can take up to 2 weeks to a month. Transplanting should be done when the seedlings have reached a size that is manageable.
Cuttings propagation
Stem cuttings can also be used for propagation. Cuttings should be taken from healthy stems using a sharp, sterilized pair of scissors. The cuttings should be left to dry for a few days before being inserted into a pot with well-draining soil mix. The pot should be kept in a warm place with bright, indirect sunlight. Watering should be done sparingly to avoid overwatering and rotting of the cutting. Roots usually develop in a month's time.
Division propagation
Division propagation involves dividing the mother plant into smaller plantlets. This method is best done during the growing season when the plant is actively growing. The mother plant should be gently removed from the pot, and the roots and stems should be carefully separated. Each plantlet should have a good root system and should be potted in a well-draining soil mix. The new plants should be kept in a warm place with bright, indirect sunlight and minimal watering should be done until they have established.
Disease management for Duvalia glomerata Haw.
Duvalia glomerata Haw. is usually not susceptible to any serious diseases. However, it can still fall prey to some fungal and bacterial infections. The best way to prevent such diseases is by maintaining proper plant care, avoiding overcrowding, and protecting the plant from cold drafts and excess moisture. In case the plant gets infected, promptly isolate it from other plants and treat with appropriate fungicides or bactericides.
Pest management for Duvalia glomerata Haw.
Duvalia glomerata Haw. is vulnerable to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects that can damage the plant's foliage and reduce its overall health and beauty. To prevent pest infestation, regularly inspect the plant and isolate it immediately in case of an outbreak. Other preventive measures include proper watering and adequate ventilation of the plant's growing environment.
If the pests are identified, use appropriate insecticides or pesticides to destroy them at the earliest. For effective control of mealybugs, use a soft cloth soaked in rubbing alcohol and gently rub off visible mealybugs. For spider mites, spray the leaves with a mixture of water and oil soap.
Scales are challenging to manage, but they can be scraped off the plant with a soft-bristled brush, cotton swab, or toothbrush dipped in rubbing alcohol. Repeat the process every few days until the scales are eliminated.
