Overview
Mesembryanthemum felinum (L.) Weston, also known as cat mesembryanthemum, is a succulent plant that belongs to the Aizoaceae family. It is native to South Africa and can be found in the Western Cape Province of the country, growing in rocky terrain and sandy soils.
Description
The plant has small, green, cylindrical leaves that grow up to 1 cm in diameter and 5 cm in length. The leaves are covered in small bristly hairs that give them a rough texture. The plant produces pink, daisy-like flowers that bloom in the summer months.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as cat mesembryanthemum due to the rough texture of its leaves, which resemble a cat's tongue. It is also known by other names such as catspaw, lion's tongue, and tiger's tongue.
Uses
Mesembryanthemum felinum is primarily used as an ornamental plant in rock gardens and succulent gardens. It is drought-tolerant and requires minimal care, making it a popular choice for gardeners who want low-maintenance plants. The plant is also used for erosion control in rocky areas due to its ability to grow in poor soil conditions.
Light Requirements
The Mesembryanthemum felinum plant requires full sunlight to grow and bloom. It is recommended to place it in an area where it receives direct sunlight for at least six hours a day. Less sun exposure may lead to stunted growth and fewer flowers.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows best in warm weather conditions. It requires a minimum temperature of 15 °C (59 °F) to survive and thrive. The optimum temperature for growth ranges between 20-30°C (68-86°F). Mesembryanthemum felinum cannot tolerate frost and low temperatures, and it's advisable to protect the plant during cold seasons.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-draining soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH level. Sandy loam soil with organic material content is the best for growing Mesembryanthemum felinum. The plant prefers soil that is moist but not waterlogged, as waterlogging can cause root rot. A mixture of compost and sand can be added to the soil to improve drainage and nutrient content.
Cultivation and Care of Mesembryanthemum felinum (L.) Weston
Mesembryanthemum felinum (L.) Weston is a succulent plant native to South Africa. Cultivating this plant is relatively easy if you follow these guidelines.
Cultivation Methods
Mesembryanthemum felinum prefers a well-draining soil mix with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. You can grow this plant in a pot or in the ground, as long as the soil is well-draining. When transplanting, handle the roots carefully to avoid damaging them.
Watering Needs
Water your Mesembryanthemum felinum only when the soil is completely dry, then water it thoroughly. Avoid pouring water onto the leaves as this can cause the plant to rot. During the summer, the plant requires more frequent watering, while in winter, you should water it less.
Fertilization
You can fertilize your Mesembryanthemum felinum once a month during the growing season (spring to fall) using a balanced fertilizer diluted to half its concentration. Fertilizing in winter is not necessary.
Pruning
Mesembryanthemum felinum doesn't require much pruning. However, you can trim back any yellow or leggy stems to encourage bushier growth. Prune in late winter or early spring before the growing season starts.
Propagation Methods for Mesembryanthemum felinum (L.) Weston
Mesembryanthemum felinum (L.) Weston is typically propagated through seed and cuttings. These are the two most successful methods.
Seed Propagation
Seeds should be sown in spring on the surface of a well-draining potting or seedling mix. Cover the seeds with a very thin layer of soil, barely deep enough to cover the seeds. Seeds should be kept moist, but not waterlogged, until they germinate. Germination should occur within two to three weeks, sometimes longer. Once seedlings have developed a few sets of true leaves, they can be individually potted up and moved to a brighter location.
Cutting Propagation
Stem cuttings are usually taken in late summer or early autumn when the plant is actively growing. Choose a stem that is firm and healthy and without flowers. Cuttings should be at least 10cm long and taken from the tip of the stem. Strip the lower leaves from the cutting, leaving only the top few leaves intact. Dip the cut end of each stem in rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining potting mix. Water the cutting well and then cover it with a plastic bag or dome to keep the humidity high. Place the container in a bright, but not direct sunlight location. Roots should develop within four to six weeks.
Disease and Pest Management for Mesembryanthemum felinum (L.) Weston
Mesembryanthemum felinum (L.) Weston, also known as Lion's Tail, is a popular ornamental plant due to its attractive flowers and easy maintenance. However, like any other plant, it is susceptible to diseases and pests. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that can damage the plant and spread viruses. They can be managed by spraying the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge them or by using insecticidal soap or neem oil. Encouraging natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings can also be helpful.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny, web-spinning pests that can cause discoloration and defoliation of the plant. They can be managed by increasing the humidity around the plant and using insecticidal soap or neem oil. Introducing predatory mites such as Phytoseiulus persimilis can also be helpful.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars are the larvae of butterflies and moths that feed on the leaves of the plant. They can be managed by picking them off by hand, using an organic pesticide, or introducing a biological control such as Bacillus thuringiensis.
Diseases
Root Rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant, causing them to decay. This can be caused by overwatering, poor drainage, or fungal infection. To manage root rot, it is important to ensure the soil is well-draining and not too wet. Infected plants should be removed and destroyed.
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes brown spots on the leaves of the plant. It can be caused by poor air circulation or overwatering. To manage leaf spot, remove infected leaves and avoid getting water on the leaves when watering. Using a fungicide may also be helpful.
Virus: Viruses can be spread by pests or contaminated soil and can cause a variety of symptoms such as stunted growth, leaf curl, and yellowing of leaves. There is no cure for viral infections, so infected plants should be removed and destroyed to prevent spreading.
Proper care and maintenance can help prevent the onset of diseases and pests. Regularly inspect the plant for any signs of pests or disease and act promptly to manage them. Remember to always follow the instructions on any pesticides or fungicides used and avoid applying them during periods of high temperature or direct sunlight.
