Origin of Lithops turbiniformis auct. var. lutea de Boer
Lithops turbiniformis auct. var. lutea de Boer is a succulent plant that is native to South Africa. It is found in the provinces of Northern and Western Cape. The plant is commonly known as Turk's Head and Living Stones because of its unique and intriguing appearance.
General Appearance of Lithops turbiniformis auct. var. lutea de Boer
Lithops turbiniformis auct. var. lutea de Boer is a small succulent plant that grows up to 2.5 cm in diameter. It is a stemless plant that consists of two leaves that are fused together at the base. The leaves are rounded and dome-shaped, giving the plant a distinctive look. The top surface of the leaves is smooth, and their color varies from light green to orange-brown. The plant does not have any noticeable stem or branches.
Common Names of Lithops turbiniformis auct. var. lutea de Boer
The plant goes by several common names, including Turk's Head, Living Stones, and Lithops. The name "Turk's Head" was given to the plant because of its rounded and dome-shaped leaves, which resemble the traditional Turkish headgear known as fez. "Living Stones" is another common name that reflects the plant's ability to blend in with its surroundings, making it almost invisible to predators.
Uses of Lithops turbiniformis auct. var. lutea de Boer
Lithops turbiniformis auct. var. lutea de Boer is primarily grown as an ornamental plant. It is a popular plant grown in rock gardens, succulent gardens, and as an indoor plant. The plant's unique appearance makes it an attractive addition to any garden or home, and it is relatively easy to grow and maintain. The plant requires minimal water and can survive in dry conditions, making it a perfect plant for those who do not have time to water their plants regularly. Some indigenous African people also believe that the plant has medicinal properties and use it to treat various ailments.
Light Requirements
The Lithops turbiniformis var. lutea de Boer plant typically grows in conditions where it receives medium to high light intensity. In its natural habitat, the plant grows in areas that receive bright but indirect light. Therefore, it should be placed in bright locations within your home, but avoid direct sunlight exposure as it may damage the plant.
Temperature Requirements
The Lithops turbiniformis var. lutea de Boer plant prefers warm temperatures. Ideally, the plant should be grown in temperatures between 62-77°F (17-25°C). Temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can cause the plant to cease growth and may cause damage or death to the plant.
Soil Requirements
The Lithops turbiniformis var. lutea de Boer plant needs well-draining, sandy soil for optimal growth. The soil pH should be between 7.0-8.5. If you do not have soil with the appropriate pH, you can add limestone to the soil to raise the pH levels. Additionally, it is recommended to mix perlite or coarse sand with the soil to improve aeration and drainage.
Cultivation Methods
Lithops turbiniformis auct. var. lutea de Boer, commonly known as the yellow flowering living stone plant, requires well-draining soil that is rich in minerals. It is best to plant this species in a pot or container that is shallow and wide but with adequate drainage holes. The plant prefers a bright, sunny location, such as a windowsill or conservatory. If growing outdoors, ensure that the plant is sheltered from the full sun and strong winds.
Watering Needs
When actively growing, this plant requires regular watering but must not be overwatered, as this may cause the plant to rot. Water the plant when the soil is completely dry, but avoid drenching the soil. During the dormant season, the plant requires less water, and it is advisable to water only once a month.
Fertilization
Lithops turbiniformis auct. var. lutea de Boer does not require regular fertilization. However, if the plant shows signs of slow growth, you can add an all-purpose fertilizer diluted to half strength during the growing season. Fertilize the plant once a month, and avoid fertilizing during the dormant season.
Pruning
Lithops turbiniformis auct. var. lutea de Boer does not require pruning as the plant is relatively small and does not produce excessive foliage. However, it is important to remove dead leaves to avoid rotting, which may be caused by the dead leaves' moisture. If the plant produces flowers or offsets, you can remove the offsets and repot them in a new container.
Propagation of Lithops turbiniformis auct. var. lutea de Boer
Lithops turbiniformis auct. var. lutea de Boer, commonly known as the "Turbiniformis lutea," is a succulent plant that belongs to the Aizoaceae family. It is native to southern Africa and widely cultivated for ornamental purposes. Propagating this plant requires some knowledge of its reproductive biology and requirements.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation of Lithops turbiniformis auct. var. lutea de Boer can be carried out by sowing seeds. The seeds can be collected from mature flower capsules that have completed their drying phase. They require a well-draining substrate, warmth, and humidity to germinate successfully. Seeds should be sown shallowly and misted regularly to maintain the moisture level.
Propagation by Division
Propagating Lithops turbiniformis auct. var. lutea de Boer through division involves separating the plant into two or more parts and replanting them separately. This method is ideal for older plants that have produced multiple heads. It is best carried out in spring or early fall when the plant is in an active growth phase. The roots of the plant should be gently teased apart, and the offsets detached with clean, sharp tools. The parent plant and the new offsets should be left to dry for a few days before re-planting in a well-draining substrate.
Propagation by Leaf Cuttings
Propagation by leaf cuttings is not the most successful method for Lithops turbiniformis auct. var. lutea de Boer, but it can be attempted with some success. Healthy leaves should be removed from the parent plant and left to dry for a few days to allow callusing. The leaf should be placed on a well-draining substrate, misted regularly, and kept in a warm, humid location. The cutting should start to form roots and a small plantlet within a few weeks to a few months.
Disease and Pest Management for Lithops Turbiniformis Auct. Var. Lutea De Boer
Lithops turbiniformis auct. var. lutea de Boer, commercially known as the Living Stones or Pebble Plants, is a unique succulent species that requires minimal maintenance. However, just like any other plant, they are prone to certain diseases and pest infestations. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
1. Root Rot
Root rot is caused by overwatering or poorly-draining soils, leading to fungal infections in the roots, killing the plant over time. To manage root rot, ensure the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering the plant. Add perlite or sand to the soil to make it more porous. Also, remove any dead or rotted roots.
2. Black Spot
Black spot is a fungal disease that appears as black spots on the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and eventually fall off. To manage black spot, remove and dispose of any infected plant materials and avoid getting water on the leaves when watering the plant.
3. Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is a bacterial infection that appears as pale spots on the leaves that gradually turn brown and may lead to complete drying up of the leaves. To manage leaf spot, remove and dispose of any infected plant materials, avoid overhead watering, and avoid overcrowding the plants.
Pests
1. Mealybugs
Mealybugs are tiny white insects that suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. To manage mealybugs, remove affected plant parts and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to the plant. Also, monitor closely neighboring plants for infestation.
2. Scale insects
Scale insects appear as small, round, brown or yellow bumps on the plant. They suck the sap from the plant, causing the leaves to wilt and yellow. To manage scale insects, remove affected plant parts, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil, and clean the leaves regularly with a damp cloth.
3. Spider mites
Spider mites are tiny, spider-like pests that feed on the plant's sap, causing yellow spots on the leaves. They also produce a fine webbing on the plant. To manage spider mites, isolate the plant, remove any infected materials, and spray it with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
By closely monitoring and managing diseases and pests, Lithops turbiniformis auct. var. lutea de Boer can thrive and remain healthy.
