Overview of Mesembryanthemum elongatum Eckl. & Zeyh.
Mesembryanthemum elongatum Eckl. & Zeyh. is a succulent plant species that belongs to the family of Aizoaceae, which consists of more than 2,000 plant species. This species is native to the Western Cape, Northern Cape and Eastern Cape regions of South Africa
Common Names
Mesembryanthemum elongatum Eckl. & Zeyh. has a few common names like the Trailing Iceplant, Dewplant, and Vygies. Dewplant, is because when the sun rises, tiny dewdrops form on the tips of the succulent leaves that stay until the morning breeze evaporates them away.
Uses
The plant commonly serves ornamental uses like trailing planters, garden edging, rockeries, or as a groundcover. It has also found uses in culinary dishes, where the leaves and younger stems are cooked. The plant extracts have been found to be beneficial in the treatment of gastric disorders and as an antimicrobial drug
General Appearance
Mesembryanthemum elongatum Eckl. & Zeyh. is a well-branched, creeping plant with long stems up to 50 cm long and forms a mat-like habit. The leaves are fleshy, opposite, linear, and grayish-green in color, reaching up to 20 mm in length. The flower is a showy exhibition with three rows of pure white petals reaching up to 4cm in length, blooming from August to October. The fruit is a small capsule that contains many small brown seeds that are spread by water and wind.
Growth conditions of Mesembryanthemum elongatum Eckl. & Zeyh.
Mesembryanthemum elongatum Eckl. & Zeyh. is a succulent plant that requires specific growth conditions to thrive. In its native region of South Africa, it can be found growing in rocky, arid regions and sandy soils.
Light Requirements
Mesembryanthemum elongatum requires full sun exposure for at least 6-8 hours per day. It is recommended to grow this plant outdoors rather than indoors so that it can receive the necessary amount of light.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Mesembryanthemum elongatum is between 65 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit (18-29 degrees Celsius). This plant is cold-sensitive and cannot tolerate frost, which can cause severe damage to the leaves and stem.
Soil Requirements
The soil for Mesembryanthemum elongatum should be well-draining and sandy, with a pH range between 6.5 and 7.5. This plant can tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soils. It is also important to ensure that the soil is not waterlogged, as this can cause root rot.
It is recommended to amend the soil with organic matter to provide nutrients for the plant's growth. Additionally, this plant can thrive in areas with low nutrient availability, making it a good choice for xeriscaping.
Cultivation Methods
Mesembryanthemum elongatum Eckl. & Zeyh. is a unique and dazzling plant characterized by its pink-lilac flowers that bloom in the summer. To cultivate this plant, start by selecting a well-draining soil mix containing peat or coir. Sow the seeds on top of the soil and cover them lightly with a layer of sand. Keep the soil moist but well-drained and maintain a temperature of 20-25°C for successful germination. Once the seedlings have grown, transplant them into well-drained soil and keep them in direct sun.
Watering Needs
Watering Mesembryanthemum elongatum Eckl. & Zeyh. is relatively easy. It requires well-drained soil and moderate watering. Water the plant moderately during the active growth period, making sure the soil is moist to the touch but not soggy. During the winter months, reduce the frequency of watering but ensure that the soil does not become dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is crucial to allow the soil to dry out slightly before watering the plant again.
Fertilization
Mesembryanthemum elongatum Eckl. & Zeyh. requires minimal fertilization to grow successfully, especially if it is grown in well-drained soil. However, during the active growth period, you can feed once every two weeks with a diluted liquid fertilizer. Alternatively, you can add slow-release fertilizer pellets to the potting mix when repotting the plant.
Pruning
Mesembryanthemum elongatum Eckl. & Zeyh. does not require frequent pruning. However, you can pinch the growing tips to promote bushier growth and encourage more blooms. Deadhead the flowers after they have wilted to keep the plant looking neat and promote continued blooming. Additionally, you can trim the plant's branches during the dormant period to maintain its shape and size.
Propagation of Mesembryanthemum elongatum Eckl. & Zeyh.
Mesembryanthemum elongatum Eckl. & Zeyh., commonly known as the trailing ice plant or the dew plant, can be propagated through various methods such as seed propagation, stem cuttings, and division of clumps.
Seed propagation
Propagation through seeds is the most common and easiest way to propagate Mesembryanthemum elongatum. The seeds are quite tiny, so they should be sown in a well-draining medium mixed with sand. The soil should be damp but not too wet, and the seeds should be placed around 3mm deep in the soil. Cover the tray or pot with a plastic cover to keep the moisture in and expose the tray or pot to sunlight regularly. The seeds will begin to sprout within a week or two, and after about a month, they will be large enough to transplant to individual pots or trays.
Stem cuttings
You can also propagate Mesembryanthemum elongatum using stem cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is in the summer when the plant is actively growing. Choose a healthy stem, and cut a section about 5-10cm long. Remove the leaves from the bottom section of the cutting, leaving only two or three leaves at the top. Dip the end of the stem in rooting hormone powder and insert it into a pot filled with well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged and expose the cutting to bright sunlight. Within two to three weeks, the cutting should form roots and begin to grow.
Division of clumps
The last way to propagate Mesembryanthemum elongatum is through the division of clumps. This method is best done in the spring when the plant is entering its growth phase. You can carefully dig up the entire clump and separate it into several small pieces. Each piece should contain a section of roots and several top growth stems. Pot each small piece separately, and water them well, keeping them in a shaded spot until they become established. Once they are established, move them to a sunny spot and continue to care for them as you would with any mature Mesembryanthemum elongatum.
Disease and Pest Management for Mesembryanthemum elongatum Eckl. & Zeyh.
Mesembryanthemum elongatum Eckl. & Zeyh. is a hardy succulent plant that can survive in harsh conditions. However, it is not immune to diseases and pests. Here are the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and how to manage them.
Diseases
Fungal Diseases: Fungal diseases are a common problem for Mesembryanthemum elongatum Eckl. & Zeyh. The most common fungal diseases that infect this plant are stem rot, leaf spot, and powdery mildew. To manage these fungal diseases, avoid overwatering the plant and make sure there is adequate air circulation around it. Use a fungicide as per the manufacturer's instructions to control the spread of the disease.
Bacterial Diseases: Bacterial diseases such as bacterial soft rot and bacterial leaf spot can cause severe damage to Mesembryanthemum elongatum Eckl. & Zeyh. To manage these diseases, avoid overwatering the plant, avoid stomping the soil around the plant, and remove any infected plant parts. Use a copper-based fungicide to manage the disease.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are common pests that suck the sap from the plant, causing curling and distortion of the leaves. To manage these pests, use neem oil or soap sprays and prune any infected plant parts.
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are white, cottony insects that attach themselves to the plant stems and suck the plant's sap. To manage these pests, use neem oil or soap sprays and prune any infected parts of the plant.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are small, red or brown pests that can cause brown or yellow spots on the plant leaves. To manage these pests, use a miticide as per the manufacturer's instructions, prune any infected plant parts, and increase the humidity around the plant.
In conclusion, managing the diseases and pests that might affect Mesembryanthemum elongatum Eckl. & Zeyh. is essential to keep the plant healthy. Prevention is the best approach, and proper care of the plant, including regular watering, pruning, and fertilization, can go a long way in preventing disease and pest outbreaks.
