Origin
Lampranthus excedens (L.Bolus) L.Bolus, commonly known as the Bolus' vygie, is a succulent plant species in the family Aizoaceae. The plant is native to South Africa, specifically in the Western Cape Province.
Common Names
Lampranthus excedens has several common names, including Bolus' vygie, dew flower, pink dew flower, and trailing ice plant.
Uses
The Bolus' vygie is known for its ornamental value, making it a popular plant for landscaping. The plant is also used as ground cover due to its trailing habit. Its ability to adapt to different soil types and resistance to drought make it a low maintenance plant.
General Appearance
The Bolus' vygie is a low-growing succulent plant that forms a dense mat-like ground cover. The leaves are small, triangular-shaped, and succulent with a bright green color. The flowers are pink or mauve with a diameter of about 2.5 centimeters. The plant blooms in spring and summer, and the flowers open in the morning and close in the afternoon.
Light Requirements
Lampranthus excedens requires full sunlight for optimal growth. It performs best in areas with bright, direct sunlight for most of the day.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is adapted to thrive in hot and dry environments with temperatures ranging between 25-35°C. It can tolerate occasional dips in temperature as low as 5°C, but prolonged exposure to cold temperatures will cause damage to the plant.
Soil Requirements
Lampranthus excedens prefers well-draining soils with low to moderate fertility. It can thrive in poor soils with low water-holding capacity as long as the drainage is good. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral (6.0-7.5) for optimal growth.
Cultivation methods for Lampranthus excedens
Lampranthus excedens is a hardy succulent that thrives in warm climates. It does best in well-draining soil and should be planted in an area with full sun exposure. When planting, dig a hole that is just deep enough for the root ball and ensure the soil is of the right PH range (6-7.5). It can be propagated from stem cuttings, seed, or division of the root ball.
Watering needs for Lampranthus excedens
While Lampranthus excedens is drought-tolerant, it requires regular watering when young to establish its roots. Mature plants require occasional watering, especially during prolonged dry periods, but they do not like to be overwatered. Ensure the soil dries out completely before the next watering and avoid wetting the leaves.
Fertilization needs for Lampranthus excedens
A slow-release fertilizer with low nitrogen content will promote healthy growth of Lampranthus excedens. A fertilizer with a 2:1:2 ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is recommended. Fertilize the plant in its growing season once in four months, and reduce the frequency by half in the dormant season.
Pruning for Lampranthus excedens
To maintain the plant's shape and improve flowering, prune Lampranthus excedens after its flowering period. Cut back the tips of the plant to promote bushy growth and cut back any dead or diseased parts. Be careful not to prune too much, as the plant needs its foliage to produce food through photosynthesis.
Propagation of Lampranthus Excedens
Lampranthus excedens, also known as the Trailing Ice Plant, can be propagated by several methods, including stem cuttings, seeds, and division.
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings are the most popular way of propagating Lampranthus excedens. Take a 4-6 inch cutting from the plant's tip, making sure to remove any leaves from the bottom 2 inches of the stem. Dip the cut end into rooting hormone, and plant the cutting into well-draining soil. Water the soil, and cover the cutting with a plastic bag to create a mini greenhouse. Place the container in a warm, bright location, and keep the soil moist. After 2-3 weeks, remove the plastic cover and continue to water the cutting until it establishes roots and begins to grow.
Seeds
Seeds are also a viable method of propagation for Lampranthus excedens. Collect the dried seed pods, and remove the seeds from the casing. Sow the seeds into well-draining soil and cover with a thin layer of soil. Water the soil and place the container in a warm, bright location. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. After approximately 2 weeks, the seeds should begin to sprout, and after a few months, they should establish themselves and grow.
Division
Division is another option for propagating Lampranthus excedens. In the spring, gently lift the plant from the soil, and using a sharp, clean blade, divide the plant into smaller sections. Each section should contain at least one stem and a healthy root system. Plant the divided sections into well-draining soil, water well, and place them in a bright location. Keep the soil consistently moist, and after a few weeks, the plants should begin to grow.
Disease and Pest Management for Lampranthus Excedens (L.Bolus) L.Bolus
Lampranthus excedens, commonly known as the Trailing Ice Plant, is a tough and adaptable perennial plant that can grow well in different soil types and climatic conditions. However, like any other plant, it may face challenges from pests and diseases. Effective management of pests and diseases is critical to maintain plant health, vigor, and promote optimum growth and yield. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
One of the main diseases that affect Lampranthus excedens is root rot. This disease is caused by fungal pathogens such as Phytophthora and Pythium. The fungus attacks the roots, and the plant becomes weak, shows wilting symptoms, and eventually dies. To manage root rot, it is essential to prevent overwatering, ensure proper drainage, and avoid using infected soil. Another disease that affects this plant is Gray mold (Botrytis cinerea). It is a fungal disease that attacks the leaves, flowers, and stems of the plant. The symptoms range from brown spots on the leaves to wilting of the stems and blooms. To manage Gray Mold, it is recommended to promote proper air circulation around the plant, avoid overhead irrigation, and manage humidity levels.
Common Pests
The main pests that affect Lampranthus excedens include aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs. Aphids are tiny insects that suck the sap from the plant, causing the leaves to curl and wilt. Spider mites, on the other hand, are tiny red or yellow bugs that feed on the underside of leaves, causing yellowing, stippling, and even defoliation. Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant and excrete a sticky substance known as honeydew, which attracts ants. To manage these pests, it is recommended to use natural predators such as ladybugs or release beneficial nematodes. Additionally, regular pruning and inspection of the plant for any signs of pest infestation can help to control their spread.
In conclusion, effective disease and pest management is critical to maintaining the health of Lampranthus excedens. Preventive measures such as proper irrigation, soil management, and pruning can help to mitigate diseases and pest infestation. Early detection and intervention are also essential to control the spread of diseases and pests effectively.
