Origin
Lapeirousia fastigiata (Lam.) Ker Gawl., commonly known as towering Lapeirousia, was first recorded in South Africa. It is native to the Cape Floral Kingdom, which sits in South Africa's southwestern region, extending from the Cape Peninsula to the Eastern Cape. The plant thrives in rocky outcrops, sandy plains, and quartz fields.
Common Names
Aside from towering Lapeirousia, this plant has several other common names, including candelabra flower and kandelaerblommetjie in Afrikaans, which means "candlestick little flower" due to its striking, flowerhead, and spiky appearance.
Uses
The towering Lapeirousia plant is famous for its ornamental purposes. Its enormous flowerheads and spiky, star-shaped clusters make it the centerpiece of any garden. In addition, it has symbolic meanings in various South African tribes. Xhosa traditional healers use Lapeirousia for medicinal purposes. The corms are boiled and mashed to make a paste that is applied to wounds and bruises.
General Appearance
Lapeirousia fastigiata is a cormous perennial herb that grows 8-20 inches tall. It has narrow, grass-like, dark green leaves that grow from a basal rosette. Its long, branching stems bear up to 30 flowers, which are arranged in a candelabra-like formation. The flowers have star-shaped clusters with colors ranging from dark purple-red to bluish-mauve. Each flower has six tepals and six stamens. The fruits are narrow capsules that contain multiple, small, dark-colored seeds.
Light Requirements
Lapeirousia fastigiata (Lam.) Ker Gawl. prefers full sunlight exposure for optimal growth and flowering. It can tolerate partial shade for short periods, but prolonged shading may negatively affect its growth and flower production.
Temperature Requirements
Lapeirousia fastigiata (Lam.) Ker Gawl. is adapted to moderate to high temperatures. It can grow in areas with minimum temperatures of 5°C and maximum temperatures of 30°C. The plant can tolerate mild frost but will not survive in areas with severe or prolonged frost conditions.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The pH of the soil should be slightly acidic to neutral, with an optimum range of 6.0 to 7.0. Lapeirousia fastigiata (Lam.) Ker Gawl. prefers sandy loam soils with good moisture retention capacity. Waterlogged or poorly drained soils are not suitable for its growth, and the plant may suffer from root rot or fungal diseases.
Cultivation Methods
Lapeirousia fastigiata (Lam.) Ker Gawl. is a bulbous plant that prefers full sun or partial shade and well-drained soil for cultivation. The plant may be grown in pots or directly in the garden bed. When planting in pots, choose a container deep enough to allow the bulbs to settle at least 2-3 inches below the soil surface.
Watering Needs
Lapeirousia fastigiata (Lam.) Ker Gawl. requires moderate watering during the growth and blooming seasons. Ensure the soil is moist, but not water-logged. Overwatering may lead to root rot. During the dormant season, reduce watering to prevent the bulbs from rotting.
Fertilization
The plant requires regular fertilization during the growth season. Mix a balanced 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 fertilizer into the soil before planting to provide the bulbs with nutrients. Repeat the application of a liquid fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growth and blooming season.
Pruning
Pruning of Lapeirousia fastigiata (Lam.) Ker Gawl. is not necessary since it does not grow tall, but you can remove any yellow leaves and withered blooms. This will help to redirect the plant's energy to the healthy growth and development of new flowers. After the blooming season, it is advisable to cut back the flower stems to promote growth for the following season.
Propagation of Lapeirousia Fastigiata
Lapeirousia Fastigiata is propagated through various methods, including seed propagation and bulb division.
Seed Propagation
Propagation of Lapeirousia Fastigiata through seeds is a natural and efficient method. The seeds are collected from the plant after blossoming when the seed capsules transform from green to brown and dry. The seeds are then stored in a cool and dry place until it's time to plant them in the following spring. To achieve a higher chance of germination, the seeds can be stratified for three months before planting them in the spring. The stratification process involves mixing the seeds with a bit of moist sand and chilled, but not freezing, temperatures.
Bulb Division
Bulbs can be separated and divided from the mother Lapeirousia Fastigiata plant during the dormant season. This period is around mid-summer when the plant has finished flowering, and the leaves have dried. Dig out the bulbs using a digging fork and separate them by carefully pulling them apart and planting them in new beds with well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Make sure to plant the bulbs at the same depth they were before and water them well throughout their establishment.
Disease and Pest Management for Lapeirousia fastigiata (Lam.) Ker Gawl.
Lapeirousia fastigiata (Lam.) Ker Gawl. is a beautiful flower that can be affected by various pests and diseases. To ensure the plant stays healthy, it is important to practice good disease and pest management techniques. Here are some common pests and diseases that may affect Lapeirousia fastigiata and ways to manage them.
Pests
Aphids: These are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap of the plant, causing the flowers and foliage to wilt. One way to control aphids is to spray a mixture of water and dish soap on the plant. Also, ladybugs are natural predators of aphids, so consider releasing some in the area. Neem oil is another organic remedy to control aphids.
Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing, stippling, and webbing on the plant's foliage. A hard spray of water can help remove the mites from the plant. Predatory mites are another great option, which you can buy and introduce into the garden to get rid of spider mites.
Snails and Slugs: These pests can be eliminated through various methods, including the use of copper strips around the plant base, eggshells, and beer traps. Moreover, you can handpick them, especially during the early morning hours when they are most active.
Diseases
Crown Rot: This pathogen mainly affects the roots and affects the entire plant through wilting leaves and stems. You can prevent crown rot by avoiding overwatering or poorly draining soils. Also, remove the infected plants and soil to prevent transmission.
Leaf Spot: This condition manifests as circular spots on the leaves that can cause premature leaf drop. It spreads through splashing water and high humidity levels. Fungicides containing copper can help keep this issue under control.
Botrytis Blight: This condition is caused by a fungus that leads to deterioration of buds and flower parts. Botrytis thrives in humid conditions and can be prevented by good sanitation techniques. Avoid overwatering and remove infected tissues as soon as they're noticed to prevent its spread. Fungicides containing thiophanate-methyl and myclobutanil can also be used.
In summary, maintaining plant health through pest and disease management is essential for Lapeirousia fastigiata's growth and longevity. Use the aforementioned tips to keep the plant problem-free and healthy.
