Origin
Kalaharia uncinata (Schinz) Moldenke var. hirsuta (Moldenke) Moldenke is a plant that belongs to the Aizoaceae family. It is endemic to Southern Africa and can be found in Namibia, South Africa, and Botswana.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as the "Hairy Trailing Ice Plant" or "Hairy Dew Plant" due to its fuzzy texture, which helps it to trap moisture.
Uses
Like other plants of the Aizoaceae family, the Hairy Trailing Ice Plant is known for its medicinal properties. It has been used by the San indigenous people of Southern Africa to treat stomach ailments, respiratory infections, and insect bites. Additionally, it is cultivated as an ornamental plant, thanks to its unusual appearance and attractive flowers.
General Appearance
The Hairy Trailing Ice Plant is a succulent plant that forms a prostrate mat as it trails along the ground. It has small, round leaves that are covered in white hairs, giving them a silvery appearance. The flowers are also small and round, growing in clusters that range in color from white to pink. The plant grows to a height of roughly 10cm and a width of 30cm, with a trailing habit that can extend up to 2m.
Light Requirements
Kalaharia uncinata var. hirsuta grows well in full sunlight. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight exposure daily to thrive. Partial shade might be tolerated, but plants growing in such conditions might not produce the best growth and flowering results.
Temperature Requirements
The plant adapts well to a range of temperatures, but it thrives in warm conditions ranging between 20°C and 30°C. Temperatures below 15°C may cause the plant's growth to slow down, and temperatures below 10°C may kill the plant.
Soil Requirements
Kalaharia uncinata var. hirsuta prefers sandy and well-draining soils with good aeration. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH from slightly acidic 6.0 to neutral 7.0 and slightly alkaline 8.0. Organic matter in the soil can improve the soil’s water-holding capacity and nutrient requirements. However, the plant cannot tolerate soils that are waterlogged or constantly wet.
Cultivation methods
Kalaharia uncinata (Schinz) Moldenke var. hirsuta (Moldenke) Moldenke, commonly known as the 'Kalahari Apple' is a hardy succulent plant that grows in rocky areas or stony hillsides. It can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, making it an ideal plant for outdoor cultivation. The plant prefers bright sunlight and well-draining soil that is not too acidic or alkaline. It is recommended to grow Kalaharia uncinata in a clay pot or container with a soil mix that is a blend of cactus soil, sand, and perlite or pumice.
Watering needs
Like most succulent plants, Kalaharia uncinata does not require frequent watering and is capable of surviving long periods of drought. The plant's watering needs are mostly dependent on the weather conditions and the type of soil it is planted in. In general, it is recommended to water the plant only when the soil has completely dried out. It is essential to avoid overwatering, as this can cause the roots to rot and eventually kill the plant.
Fertilization
Kalaharia uncinata is not a heavy feeder and does not require frequent fertilization. Applying a slow-release fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season is beneficial for the plant's growth. It is essential to use a balanced fertilizer that contains phosphorus, nitrogen, and potassium, as well as micronutrients like iron, zinc, and manganese. Applying a liquid fertilizer every two months during the growing season can also help improve the plant's overall health.
Pruning
Kalaharia uncinata does not require frequent pruning, but it is necessary to remove any dead or damaged leaves or stems regularly. These plant parts can attract pests and diseases, which can harm the plant and cause further damage. Pruning can also be done to control the plant's size and shape, but it should be avoided during the dormant season when the plant is not actively growing. Always use a sharp and sterile pruning tool to prevent damage to the plant and avoid the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Kalaharia uncinata (Schinz) Moldenke var. hirsuta (Moldenke) Moldenke
Kalaharia uncinata (Schinz) Moldenke var. hirsuta (Moldenke) Moldenke is a striking plant that belongs to the Aizoaceae family. It is commonly known as 'Red Pancake' or 'Meatpad'. Propagation of this plant can be done via several methods, including:
Seeds
The most common method of propagation for Kalaharia uncinata is through seeds. The seeds should be sown in the spring season in well-draining soil with good sunlight exposure. The soil should be moist, but not wet, and the seeds should be planted at a depth of around 3-5mm. Germination should occur within around 14-21 days.
Cuttings
Propagation of Kalaharia uncinata can also be done through stem cuttings. It is advisable to use healthy, mature stems for this purpose. The cutting should be taken in the spring season and allowed to dry for a few days. Once the cuttings are dry, they should be planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept in a warm, bright location. The cuttings should root in around 2-3 weeks.
Division
Division is another method of propagating Kalaharia uncinata. The plant should be divided in the spring season, and only mature plants should be used for this purpose. The plant should be carefully uprooted, and the individual rosettes should be separated with a sharp, sterilized knife. Ensure that each rosette has a sufficient root system attached before replanting in a well-draining soil mix. Water and avoid direct sunlight for a few days until the roots start to establish in the soil.
Disease Management
Kalaharia uncinata var. hirsuta is generally resistant to many diseases. However, under certain conditions, it can be susceptible to fungal and bacterial diseases.
One common disease that affects this plant is powdery mildew, which is caused by the fungal pathogen Erysiphe cichoracearum. It appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. To manage this disease, infected plant parts should be removed and destroyed. Fungicides such as sulfur or neem oil can also be used to control the spread of powdery mildew.
Bacterial leaf spot is another disease that can affect Kalaharia uncinata var. hirsuta. It is caused by the bacteria Xanthomonas campestris, and it appears as small, water-soaked lesions on the leaves. The lesions may eventually turn yellow or brown and the leaves may drop prematurely. To manage this disease, infected plant parts should be removed and destroyed. Copper-based fungicides can also be used to control the spread of bacterial leaf spot.
Pest Management
Kalaharia uncinata var. hirsuta is generally resistant to insect pests. However, under certain conditions, it can be occasionally attacked by a few pests.
One pest that commonly affects this plant is spider mites. These small, red or yellow pests can be found on the undersides of leaves, and they suck sap from the plant, causing yellowing and eventually wilting. To manage spider mites, infested plants should be sprayed with a strong stream of water to knock them off. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can also be used to control their population.
Another pest that might affect this plant is aphids. These small, green or black pests can be found on the new growth of the plant, and they suck sap from the leaves, causing yellowing and curling. To manage aphids, infested plants can be sprayed with a strong stream of water to knock them off. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can also be used to control their population.
