Origin
Mesembryanthemum bigibberatum Haw., commonly known as the Heart-leaved ice plant, belongs to the family of Aizoaceae. It is native to South Africa.
Common Names
Heart-leaved ice plant is also known by other common names, including baby sun rose, dew plant, and beetewegings.
Uses
Heart-leaved ice plant is primarily grown for ornamental purposes. It is an excellent choice for rock gardens, or as a ground cover in dry and sunny locations. The plant is drought-tolerant and requires minimal care, making it an ideal choice for busy gardeners. Heart-leaved ice plant is also used in traditional medicine to treat stomach and respiratory problems.
General Appearance
Heart-leaved ice plant is a low-growing spreading succulent, growing up to 15 cm tall. It has fleshy, narrow, heart-shaped leaves that are green to reddish-purple in color. The plant produces pink to deep magenta flowers with a yellow center that bloom in the summer. The flowers are about 2-3 cm in diameter. The plant has a shallow root system and can spread up to 60 cm wide. Heart-leaved ice plant prefers full sun and well-drained soil with low moisture.
Growth Conditions of Mesembryanthemum bigibberatum Haw.
Mesembryanthemum bigibberatum, commonly known as icicles, is a succulent plant that thrives in warm and arid regions. It is a low-growing plant that spreads up to 30 cm and has silver-grey leaves with small, yellow flowers. However, to grow and thrive, specific environmental conditions must be met.
Light Requirements
Mesembryanthemum bigibberatum requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth and flowering. Therefore, it should be placed in a location with a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight a day to ensure the plant receives enough energy to grow and prosper. If the plant does not receive enough light, its growth may be stunted, and its leaves may turn yellow or even fall off.
Temperature Requirements
Mesembryanthemum bigibberatum is native to a hot and dry climate and can tolerate high temperatures. Therefore, a temperature range of 16°C to 30°C (60°F to 85°F) is ideal for its growth and development. However, the plant cannot tolerate freezing conditions and will die in temperatures below 0°C (32°F). Mesembryanthemum bigibberatum is also intolerant to humidity, which can cause the plant to succumb to fungal diseases.
Soil Requirements
Mesembryanthemum bigibberatum prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. It can grow in various soil types, but its growth and survival rate are significantly impacted by the soil's ability to retain moisture. It is vital to avoid overwatering the plant because excess moisture can cause root rot. Adding organic matter to the soil can also improve its fertility, ensuring that the plant receives enough nutrients to grow and flourish.
In conclusion, growing Mesembryanthemum bigibberatum requires providing a habitat with enough sunlight, a warm and dry climate, and well-draining and nutrient-rich soil. Properly maintaining these environmental factors will enable the plant to thrive and create a colourful and attractive addition to any garden or houseplant collection.
Cultivation Methods
Mesembryanthemum bigibberatum Haw. is a plant that can thrive both indoors and outdoors. If planting it indoors, make sure it has access to plenty of bright, indirect sunlight. Outdoors, it prefers warmer temperatures and should be planted in an area that receives full to partial sunlight. The plant should be placed in well-draining soil and watered regularly to avoid rot.
Watering Needs
Mesembryanthemum bigibberatum Haw. should be watered regularly, but it is essential not to overwater it. Overwatering can cause root rot and can ultimately kill the plant. Water the plant only when the soil is dry to the touch. During the winter months, reduce the watering frequency as the plant will enter a dormant period.
Fertilization
Regular fertilization will keep your Mesembryanthemum bigibberatum Haw. healthy and thriving. Use a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Avoid fertilizing during the winter months when the plant is dormant.
Pruning
Mesembryanthemum bigibberatum Haw. is a low-growing succulent that requires minimal pruning. The only pruning needed is to remove any dead or yellowing leaves to improve the overall appearance. Trim back any stems that have overgrown the pot to keep the plant compact.
Propagation of Mesembryanthemum bigibberatum Haw.
Mesembryanthemum bigibberatum Haw. can be propagated through various methods, including seeds, stem cuttings, and division of mature plants.
Propagation through Seeds:
The plant produces small black seeds, which can be collected after the flowering period. To propagate through seeds, sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mix in a container. Water the soil thoroughly until the water drains out from the bottom and place it in a warm and sunny location. Keep the soil moist until the seeds have germinated, which usually takes around two weeks. Thin out the seedlings once they have grown a few sets of leaves.
Propagation through Stem Cuttings:
Mesembryanthemum bigibberatum Haw. can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Take a healthy stem cutting of around 4-6 inches in length from the plant's mature growth. Remove the bottom leaves and dip the end of the cutting in a rooting hormone powder. Place the cutting in a well-draining soil mix, and water thoroughly. Cover the container with a clear plastic bag to maintain humidity and place it in a bright, but indirect, location. After several weeks, the cutting will develop roots and can be transplanted into a larger container or outdoors.
Propagation through Division:
If you have a mature Mesembryanthemum bigibberatum Haw. plant, it can be propagated through division. Gently dig up the plant and separate the roots into two or three sections, ensuring each section has a healthy amount of roots. Replant each section in a well-draining soil mix and water thoroughly. Place the container in a bright, but indirect, location and keep the soil moist until the plant establishes.
Disease and Pest Management for Mesembryanthemum bigibberatum Haw.
Mesembryanthemum bigibberatum Haw. is a plant that is vulnerable to different types of diseases and pests. Proper disease and pest management is crucial to maintain the plant's health and productivity. Here are some common diseases and pests that are known to affect Mesembryanthemum bigibberatum Haw. and how to manage them.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Mesembryanthemum bigibberatum Haw. is root rot. This disease is caused by a fungus that thrives in wet soil conditions. To manage this disease, it is important to provide adequate drainage and avoid overwatering the plant. It is recommended to plant Mesembryanthemum bigibberatum Haw. in well-drained soil and to only water when the soil is completely dry.
Another common disease that affects Mesembryanthemum bigibberatum Haw. is powdery mildew. This disease appears as a white powdery substance on the plant's foliage. To manage this disease, it is important to remove any infected plant parts and treat the plant with a fungicide. Additionally, it is recommended to improve air circulation around the plant to prevent the occurrence of powdery mildew.
Common Pests
Mesembryanthemum bigibberatum Haw. is also vulnerable to different types of pests. Some common pests that affect this plant include spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the plant's sap, causing yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Mealybugs and aphids feed on the plant's sap as well, and they can also secrete a sticky substance that attracts ants.
To manage these pests, it is important to monitor the plant regularly and treat any infestation as soon as it is detected. One effective way to manage pests is by using insecticidal soap or neem oil. These natural remedies are safe for the plants and can effectively kill pests. It is also important to keep the plant in a healthy condition by providing adequate nutrients and water to reduce the risk of pest infestations.
