Origin and Common Names
Mesembryanthemum digitiforme Thunb., also known as fingers-and-toes or digitata, is a succulent plant that belongs to the family Aizoaceae. The plant is native to southern and eastern Africa but has now been introduced in many parts of the world as an ornamental plant.
General Appearance
Mesembryanthemum digitiforme has a trailing growth habit and can spread up to 50cm in diameter. The plant features fleshy, cylindrical leaves that are green in color and can grow up to 3cm in length. It produces showy flowers with bright pink, white, yellow, or purple petals that open in the daytime and close at night. The flowers are solitary, with a diameter of 3-5cm and a distinctively central reddish spot.
Uses
Mesembryanthemum digitiforme is used in landscaping as ground cover and is also grown in containers as a decorative plant. It can thrive in low water conditions and is suitable for xeriscaping. Additionally, the plant has medicinal properties and is used in traditional medicine to treat skin ailments, including burns, insect bites, and skin infections. The roots and leaves of the plant are boiled and used as a lotion or poultice.
Light Requirements
Mesembryanthemum digitiforme Thunb. requires full sunlight exposure for optimum growth. This plant can sustain in partial shade, but it will not bloom as well as it does in full sunlight. Therefore, it is best to place the plant in a sunny spot where it can receive direct sunlight for at least 6 hours per day.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9-11. However, it thrives in warm temperatures and cannot tolerate frost or freezing temperatures. The ideal temperature range for Mesembryanthemum digitiforme Thunb. is between 60-85 F (15-29 C).
Soil Requirements
Well-draining soil is essential for Mesembryanthemum digitiforme Thunb. as it cannot tolerate waterlogged roots. The soil should be sandy, mildly acidic (pH 6.0-7.5), and rich in organic matter. The plant prefers soil that is low in nutrients, and excessive nutrients may cause leaf burn and root rot.
Cultivation Methods
Mesembryanthemum digitiforme, also known as the Finger Mesembryanthemum, is a succulent plant that is relatively easy to cultivate. This plant thrives in sandy or gravelly soils with ample drainage. When planting, ensure that you place the plant in a spot that receives ample sunlight, preferably an area that gets around 6-8 hours of sunlight each day. It's best to start planting in the early spring, just before the growing season begins.
Ensure that you space the plants about 10 to 12 inches apart to give them enough room to grow properly. When planting in pots, ensure you use a well-draining potting mix to prevent waterlogging that can lead to root rot.
Watering needs
Mesembryanthemum digitiforme is a succulent plant with low watering requirements. Water the plant only when the soil is dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other problems that can affect the health of the plant. In the summer, you may need to increase the frequency of watering since the plant is actively growing, but be careful not to overdo it.
When watering, water deeply and allow the soil to dry out completely before the next watering cycle. You can also opt for the soaking method where you fully immerse the pot in water and allow the soil to absorb the water before draining the excess.
Fertilization
Mesembryanthemum digitiforme is a slow-growing succulent plant that requires minimal fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer once every three months during the growing season, typically from spring to fall. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant season, which is usually in winter.
You may also opt for organic fertilizers, such as composted manure and worm castings, which tend to be gentler on the plant and the environment.
Pruning
Mesembryanthemum digitiforme is a low-maintenance plant that requires little pruning. However, you should prune back any dead or damaged stems to improve the plant's appearance. Pruning can also be helpful in controlling the size of the plant. Avoid pruning during the dormant season since the plant is less active, and the wounds may take longer to heal.
Propagation methods of Mesembryanthemum digitiforme Thunb.
Mesembryanthemum digitiforme Thunb. is a succulent plant that is native to South Africa. It has fleshy green leaves and produces bright pink flowers in the summer months. The plant can be propagated by seed, stem cuttings, or division.
Seed propagation
The easiest way to propagate Mesembryanthemum digitiforme Thunb. is through seed. The seeds can be sown directly in the soil during the spring or early summer months. They should be planted about 1cm deep and spaced 15-20cm apart. The soil should be kept moist until the seeds germinate, which usually takes about 2-4 weeks. Once the seedlings have developed their second set of leaves, they can be transplanted into their permanent location.
Stem cutting propagation
Stem cuttings are another way to propagate Mesembryanthemum digitiforme Thunb. To propagate using stem cuttings, select healthy stems that are about 10cm long and cut them from the parent plant using a sharp, clean knife. Remove the lower leaves from the cutting and allow the cut end to callus over for a few days before planting it in a well-draining soil mix. Water the cutting sparingly until it develops roots, which usually takes about 4-6 weeks. After the cutting has established roots, it can be transplanted into its permanent location.
Division propagation
Division is a propagation method that can be used for older Mesembryanthemum digitiforme Thunb. plants. To propagate using division, gently lift the plant from the soil and shake off any excess soil. Use a clean, sharp knife to divide the plant into two or three sections, making sure each section has a healthy root system. Plant each section in a well-draining soil mix and water sparingly until they become established.
Disease Management
Mesembryanthemum digitiforme Thunb. is a resilient succulent that is not typically affected by diseases. However, various environmental factors may weaken the plant and make it susceptible to certain conditions. Here are some common diseases that may affect the Mesembryanthemum digitiforme Thunb. and ways to manage them:
Fungal Infections
Fungi grow well in warm and humid conditions, so it's essential to keep the plant's environment dry. If you notice any fungal growth on the leaves or the stem, remove the affected parts, and avoid overhead watering. Applying a fungicide may also be helpful in treating fungal infections.
Bacterial Infections
Mesembryanthemum digitiforme Thunb. is not usually affected by bacterial infections, but poor hygiene practices can promote the growth of bacteria. Make sure to maintain cleanliness when handling the plant, and avoid overwatering it. If you notice any signs of bacterial infection, it's recommended to remove the plant and replace the soil completely.
Pest Management
Like most plants, Mesembryanthemum digitiforme Thunb. is also susceptible to pest infestations. Here are some common pests that may affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are common pests that affect succulents, including Mesembryanthemum digitiforme Thunb. If you notice any white, cotton-like growth on the leaves or stem, it's likely a mealybug infestation. To manage this, remove the affected parts, and isolate the plant from others. You can either rinse the plant with water or use an insecticidal soap for treatment.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that commonly affect succulents. They usually appear as white or yellow specks on the leaves. To manage spider mites, isolate the plant, remove the affected parts, and rinse the plant with water. Applying neem oil or insecticidal soap can also help control spider mites infestations.
Scale Insects
Scale insects are common pests that affect indoor plants like Mesembryanthemum digitiforme Thunb. They appear as small, brown bumps on the leaves or stem. To manage scale insects, you can use a cotton swab soaked in rubbing alcohol to remove them from the plant. You can also apply neem oil or insecticidal soap for treatment.
