Overview
Huernia scabra N.E.Br. is a succulent plant species that belongs to the family Apocynaceae. It is native to the southern part of Africa, particularly the countries of South Africa, Namibia, and Zimbabwe.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as the "Tickle Me Plant" or the "Carrion Plant" because of the unusual smell it emits, which resembles that of rotting flesh. It is also sometimes referred to as the "Dragon Flower" because of its unique, star-shaped blooms.
Appearance
Huernia scabra N.E.Br. is a small, low-growing plant with fleshy, erect stems that can grow up to 20cm long. The stems are green and cylindrical, with small, triangular-shaped leaves that grow along the length of the stem. The plant produces small, star-shaped flowers that are orange-red or brownish-red in color, and can reach up to 4cm in diameter. The flowers have a characteristic foul smell that attracts flies, which are the plant's primary pollinators.
Uses
The Tickled Me Plant is primarily grown as an ornamental plant because of its unique appearance and fascinating flowers. It is easy to grow and care for, and does well in a variety of indoor and outdoor settings. Additionally, some cultures believe that the plant has medicinal properties and is used to treat various ailments such as coughs, colds, and headaches. However, there is no scientific evidence to support these claims.
Light Requirements
Huernia scabra N.E.Br. requires bright but indirect light to grow properly. In its natural habitat, it grows under the protection of rocks and other plants, which partially shade it from direct sunlight. Therefore, the plant should be placed near a window that receives bright but filtered light. Direct sunlight can cause damage to the plant's leaves and inhibit its growth.
Temperature Requirements
Huernia scabra N.E.Br. is a succulent plant that thrives in warm temperatures. The plant prefers temperatures between 65 and 85°F (18-30°C) during the day and between 50 and 60°F (10-15°C) at night. Temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can cause the plant to suffer from freezing damage, while temperatures above 85°F (30°C) can cause the plant to wilt and suffer from heat stress.
Soil Requirements
The soil requirements for Huernia scabra N.E.Br. are well-draining soil with good aeration. The plant is adapted to grow in rocky, coarse, and well-draining soils in its natural habitat. Therefore, it is essential to use a cactus or succulent soil mix that replicates the plant's natural growing medium. The soil should contain perlite, sand, or gravel to ensure proper drainage and prevent the soil from retaining too much moisture, which can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
Cultivation
Huernia scabra N.E.Br. is a succulent plant commonly known as the Dragon flower. It is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to cultivate. The plant thrives in warm climates and can be grown both indoors and outdoors. The ideal temperature for growing this plant is 60-80°F.
When growing the plant indoors, it is best to place it near a south-facing window as it requires plenty of sunlight. If grown outdoors, the plant should be placed in a spot that receives partial shade.
The plant grows well in a well-draining soil mix. It is recommended to add perlite or sand to the potting mix to ensure proper drainage. The plant can be propagated through stem cuttings, which makes it easy to create more plants.
Watering needs
The Dragon flower requires minimal watering as it is a succulent plant. Overwatering can lead to root-rot and plant failure. It is suggested to water the plant only when the top 1 inch of soil is dry to the touch. During the winter months, the plant can go weeks without needing to be watered.
When watering the plant, it is best to water from the bottom up. This prevents water from settling on the leaves and stem of the plant which can cause damage. The plant should be watered early in the day so that the soil has time to dry out before nightfall.
Fertilization
Huernia scabra N.E.Br. does not require much fertilization. The plant can be fertilized once a month with a diluted fertilizer that is high in phosphorus. Fertilizer should be stopped during the winter months as the plant typically enters a dormant phase.
It is important to avoid over-fertilizing the plant as this can cause the leaves to become yellow and wilt.
Pruning
Pruning the Dragon flower is not necessary unless the plant has become too large for its current pot. The plant can be pruned in the spring or early summer after it has finished flowering.
When pruning the plant, it is important to use clean, sharp tools. This helps prevent the spread of disease and ensures a clean cut.
Propagation of Huernia scabra N.E.Br.
Huernia scabra N.E.Br. can be propagated through various methods such as stem cuttings, leaf cuttings and seed sowing.
Propagation through stem cuttings
Take stem cuttings of about 10-12 cm length from the parent plant and allow the cuttings to dry for 24 hours. Then, plant the cuttings in a well-draining soil mix, keep it in a bright, indirect light and water sparingly. After a few weeks, roots will start to form, and new growth will emerge from the top.
Propagation through leaf cuttings
Take healthy leaves from the parent plant and allow them to dry for a day or two. Then, cut the leaf into sections of approximately 2-3 cm length and insert the cuttings into a soil mix. Water sparingly, and keep it in indirect light until new growth appears.
Propagation through seed sowing
Sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mix, keep it slightly moist, and place in a bright, indirect light. Seeds should germinate in 2 - 3 weeks.
Propagation of Huernia scabra N.E.Br. can be a rewarding experience for gardeners as it allows them to not only multiply their plants but also to share them with others.
Disease Management for Huernia scabra N.E.Br.
Huernia scabra is generally a hardy plant, and disease problems are not common. However, like any other plant, it can develop issues such as fungal, bacterial, or viral infections. Here are some common diseases that might affect Huernia scabra and ways to manage them:
Fungal Infections
Fungal infections are usually caused by overwatering or high humidity levels. Symptoms include yellowing leaves, wilting, and mold or spores on the leaves or soil. To prevent fungal infections, avoid wetting the leaves when watering the plant, ensure proper drainage, and maintain moderate humidity levels. In case of infection, prune affected leaves, improve ventilation, and apply an appropriate fungicide.
Bacterial Infections
Bacterial infections are common in Huernia scabra and usually occur due to poor hygiene and improper watering. Symptoms include wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and rotting of the stem and roots. To prevent bacterial infections, water the plant thoroughly but avoid wetting the leaves, allow the soil to dry out between watering sessions, and maintain good hygiene practices. In case of infection, prune affected plant parts, improve ventilation, and apply a copper-based bactericide.
Viral Infections
Viral infections are rare in Huernia scabra and usually occur due to the use of contaminated gardening tools or debris. Symptoms include distorted leaves, slow growth, and yellowing or mottling of the foliage. To prevent viral infections, use sanitized gardening tools, and avoid using infected soil or debris. Unfortunately, there is no treatment for viral infections, and infected plants should be promptly removed and destroyed to prevent the spread of the virus to other healthy plants.
Pest Management for Huernia scabra N.E.Br.
Huernia scabra is also resistant to most pest problems. However, just like other plants, it can fall victim to common houseplant pests such as mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. Here are ways to manage these common pests:
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are small, wingless insects that appear as cottony masses on the undersides of leaves and stems. They suck the sap from the plant, causing wilting and stunted growth. To manage a mealybug infestation, wipe the affected leaves and stems with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or insecticidal soap. Repeat the process several times over a few weeks, making sure to check for any re-infestations.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny insects that feed on the leaves of the plant, causing them to turn yellow and fall off. They also produce fine webbing that can be observed on the underside of leaves. To manage a spider mite infestation, spray the affected plant parts with water to dislodge the mites, prune heavily infested leaves, and apply an acaricide (a pesticide that targets mites).
Scale Insects
Scale insects are tiny, shell-like organisms that attach themselves to the plant's stems and leaves, sucking sap. They can appear as dark lumps or bumps on the plant's surface. To manage a scale infestation, wipe the affected plant parts with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or insecticidal soap. Repeat the process several times over a few weeks, making sure to check for any re-infestations.
