Overview of Funastrum cynanchoides (Dcne.) Schlechter var. subtruncatum (B.L. Robins. & Fern.) J.F. Macbr.
Funastrum cynanchoides (Dcne.) Schlechter var. subtruncatum (B.L. Robins. & Fern.) J.F. Macbr., commonly called “sub-truncated twinevine” or “kidney plant,” is a flowering plant in the family Apocynaceae. It is native to Mexico and the southwestern United States, including Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. This rare subspecies of Funastrum cynanchoides is a perennial plant that grows in desert habitats such as rocky hillsides, dry washes, and canyons.
General Appearance of Funastrum cynanchoides (Dcne.) Schlechter var. subtruncatum (B.L. Robins. & Fern.) J.F. Macbr.
The sub-truncated twinevine has a distinctive appearance characterized by thick, fleshy leaves and twining stems that can reach up to 5 feet in length. The stem of the plant is green, and the leaves are gray-green in color. The leaves are opposite, oval in shape, and can reach up to 6 cm in length. The plant produces small, star-shaped flowers that are white to pale pink in color and bloom from May to October. The fruit of the plant is a long, slender pod that splits open to release flat, brown seeds.
Uses of Funastrum cynanchoides (Dcne.) Schlechter var. subtruncatum (B.L. Robins. & Fern.) J.F. Macbr.
Funastrum cynanchoides (Dcne.) Schlechter var. subtruncatum (B.L. Robins. & Fern.) J.F. Macbr. has no known significant uses in medicine or food. However, it is an ornamental plant that can be grown as a unique addition to a desert-themed garden or used in xeriscaping. The plant’s trailing habit makes it an excellent choice for hanging baskets or for providing ground cover in rock gardens.
Light Requirements
Funastrum cynanchoides var. subtruncatum prefers bright, direct sunlight and does well in full sun. It can also grow in partial shade, but flowering may be reduced in these conditions.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is well adapted to warm temperatures and prefers hot, dry weather. It is typically found in arid regions with average temperatures ranging from 15-35°C (59-95°F). It can tolerate occasional frosts but prolonged exposure to cold temperatures can be detrimental to its growth.
Soil Requirements
Funastrum cynanchoides var. subtruncatum grows best in sandy or gravelly soils with good drainage. It can also grow in nutrient-poor soils with low organic matter content. This plant is drought-tolerant and can thrive in areas with low rainfall.
Cultivation Methods
Funastrum cynanchoides var. subtruncatum can be grown from seed or propagated using stem cuttings. It prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. The plant thrives in full sun but also tolerates partial shade. It is a drought-tolerant species and can be grown in arid regions.
Watering Needs
This plant is low-maintenance and has low to moderate water requirements. It is best to water deeply and infrequently to encourage deeper root growth. Water the plant only when the soil dries out completely, and avoid overwatering as it can lead to rotting of roots.
Fertilization
Fertilizer is not necessary for this species. However, if you choose to fertilize, use a balanced slow-release fertilizer in the spring. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers as it can cause excessive vegetative growth, reducing flower production.
Pruning
Funastrum cynanchoides var. subtruncatum does not require regular pruning. However, if you want to shape the plant, prune it back in the early spring before new growth appears. Cut back any dead wood or diseased portions as soon as you notice them.
Propagation of Funastrum cynanchoides var. subtruncatum
Funastrum cynanchoides var. subtruncatum is a perennial succulent that can be propagated by several methods, including seed propagation, stem cuttings, and root cuttings.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is a common and easy method for propagating Funastrum cynanchoides var. subtruncatum. Seeds can be collected from mature pods during the fall season when they turn brown and dry. The seeds can be sown directly on the soil surface or in seedling trays filled with a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged and place the container in a bright, warm location. Germination usually occurs within 2-4 weeks. After germination, the seedlings can be transplanted into individual pots after they have developed two or three sets of leaves.
Stem Cuttings
Propagation by stem cuttings is another popular method for Funastrum cynanchoides var. subtruncatum. Choose a healthy stem and make a clean cut below a leaf node with a sharp and sterile knife. The cutting should be 4-6 inches long and contain at least two or three leaf nodes. Dip the cutting in rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and transfer the cutting to a larger pot when it has developed roots and new leaves.
Root Cuttings
Root cuttings are also an effective way to propagate Funastrum cynanchoides var. subtruncatum. Choose a healthy root and cut it into sections that are approximately 1-2 inches long. Dust the cuttings with rooting hormone and plant them horizontally in a well-draining soil mix. Cover the cuttings with a thin layer of soil and keep them moist. New growth should appear within 4-6 weeks of planting.
Regardless of the propagation method used, it is essential to provide the right growing conditions for Funastrum cynanchoides var. subtruncatum to thrive. Place the plant in a bright, sunny location and water it moderately, allowing the soil to dry out partially between waterings. The plant is also tolerant of drought and prefers a well-draining soil mix with ample organic matter.
Disease Management
Funastrum cynanchoides var. subtruncatum is generally a hardy plant, but it can sometimes fall prey to diseases that can affect its overall growth and vitality. Here are a few common diseases that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Fusarium wilt:
Fusarium wilt is characterized by the wilting of the plant, starting from the base and progressing upward. The leaves eventually turn yellow and fall off, and the stem may develop dark lesions. To manage Fusarium wilt, remove and destroy any infected plant debris. Avoid over-watering the plant, as this can create conditions favoring the disease. If necessary, apply a fungicide to prevent the spread of the disease.
Anthracnose:
Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes black sunken spots on foliage and stems. It can also cause severe defoliation and stem dieback. The ideal way to manage anthracnose is to keep the plant debris tidy, prune off contaminated foliage and space the plant to allow better air circulation. If applied early on, a fungicide can also help manage the disease.
Pest Management
Funastrum cynanchoides var. subtruncatum can also fall prey to pests. Here are a few common pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Milkweed Aphids:
Milkweed aphids are small yellow pests that feed on the plant's sap, weakening the plant. They are easily identifiable by their clusters on new growth, buds, and under leaves. To manage Milkweed aphids, spray the plant once a week with a strong jet of water or use insecticidal soap or horticultural oils. Prune off contaminated foliage or stems and avoid over-fertilizing the plant, which can make it more prone to infestations.
Spider Mites:
Spider mites are minuscule arachnids that feed on plant sap. They create yellow spots on the leaves, and the leaves may fall off if the mites are left unchecked. Spider mites thrive in conditions with low humidity, so maintaining high humidity and regular misting can help manage them. Additionally, you can use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil on the plant or introduce natural predators, such as ladybugs or lacewings, to prey on the spider mites.
