Mesembryanthemum Horizontale Haw.

Origin and Common Names:

Mesembryanthemum horizontale Haw. is a species of flowering plant in the family Aizoaceae. The plant is native to South Africa, but it can also be found in other parts of Africa, as well as Australia and New Zealand. Common names for the plant include trailing iceplant, trailing noonflower, and red apple.

General Appearance:

Mesembryanthemum horizontale Haw. is a ground-hugging perennial that forms a dense mat-like carpet on the ground. Its stems are thin, fleshy, and often reddish in color, with small, oblong leaves that are arranged in opposite pairs. The plant produces bright pink or red flowers that bloom from spring to fall. The flowers have a distinctive shape, with a central ring of petals surrounding a dark, round center.

Uses:

Mesembryanthemum horizontale Haw. is often used as a ground cover in gardens and landscaping due to its attractive appearance and low maintenance requirements. The plant is also commonly grown in pots and hanging baskets, where its trailing stems and colorful flowers make it a popular choice for adding some color to a patio or balcony. Some cultivars of the plant have been developed for their particularly vibrant flower colors, such as deep red or bright pink.

Light requirements

Mesembryanthemum horizontale Haw. is a sun-loving plant that requires full sunlight exposure for at least 6 hours daily. In indoor settings, it should be placed in a location that receives plenty of natural light or under artificial grow lights that simulate sunlight. Insufficient light exposure could result in stunted growth and reduced flowering.

Temperature requirements

For optimal growth, Mesembryanthemum horizontale Haw. requires warm temperatures between 15-30°C (59-86°F). It cannot tolerate frost or extremely cold temperatures, and exposure to freezing conditions could cause irreversible damage to the plant. The plant is not recommended for outdoor cultivation in areas with harsh winters.

Soil requirements

Mesembryanthemum horizontale Haw. requires well-draining soil with a pH between 6 and 7.5, consisting of a mix of sand, loam, and some organic matter. Soil that retains too much moisture, or is compacted, can cause root rot and other diseases. A good potting mix could contain sand, perlite, vermiculite, coco coir, peat moss, and a slow-release fertilizer.

Cultivation Methods

Mesembryanthemum horizontale Haw., commonly known as Horizontal Ice Plant, is a low-growing, succulent perennial that prefers well-drained soil. This plant requires full sun and warm temperatures between 60°F and 80°F for proper growth. Mesembryanthemum horizontale can be propagated by seed or stem cutting. The ideal time for propagation is in the spring when the plant enters its active growth period.

Watering Needs

During the growing season, Mesembryanthemum horizontale requires regular watering. However, it is crucial to avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot. It is recommended to allow the soil to dry out before watering again. In the winter, the plant requires less water, and the soil should be allowed to dry out fully before watering.

Fertilization

Mesembryanthemum horizontale is a low-maintenance plant and does not require much fertilization. During the active growth period in the spring and summer, it is recommended to fertilize with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks. However, it is important to dilute the fertilizer to half the recommended strength as the plant is sensitive to high levels of nutrients.

Pruning

Mesembryanthemum horizontale does not require frequent pruning. However, it is important to remove any dead or diseased leaves or stems promptly. This helps to prevent the spread of any potential diseases and keeps the plant looking neat. If the plant becomes leggy, pinching back the tips can help to promote bushier growth.

Propagation of Mesembryanthemum horizontale Haw.

Mesembryanthemum horizontale Haw., commonly known as trailing ice plant or groundcover ice plant, is a drought-tolerant, succulent plant appreciated for its daisy-like flowers and low-growing, mat-forming habit. Propagation of this plant is commonly done through vegetative means, including stem and leaf cuttings.

Stem Cuttings

Stem cuttings are an easy and quick way to propagate Mesembryanthemum horizontale. They can be taken from the plant during the growing season and rooted in a well-draining soil mix or sand.

Here are the steps to follow:

1. Choose a healthy stem from the plant and cut a section around 3-5 inches.
2. Remove any leaves from the bottom third of the stem.
3. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder.
4. Plant the cutting in a pot filled with well-draining soil or sand.
5. Water the cutting lightly and keep the soil moist until roots form.
6. Once the roots have formed, transplant the cutting into a larger pot or in the garden.

Leaf Cuttings

Leaf cuttings are another way to propagate Mesembryanthemum horizontale. Select a healthy, plump leaf, and remove it from the stem by gently twisting it off the plant. Then follow these steps:

1. Allow the leaf cutting to dry for a few days, until a callus forms over the cut.
2. Plant the leaf cutting in a well-draining soil mix or sand, making sure one-third of the leaf is buried in the soil.
3. Mist the soil and the cutting with water and cover it with plastic to create a greenhouse-like environment.
4. Place the cutting in bright, indirect light, keeping the soil moist at all times.
5. After a few weeks, the cutting will start to root and produce new growth. When it has established roots, transplant it into a larger pot or in the garden.

Propagation of Mesembryanthemum horizontale through stem and leaf cuttings is a cost-effective and reliable way to increase your collection of these drought-tolerant and beautiful plants.

Disease Management

Mesembryanthemum horizontale Haw. is susceptible to various diseases, including fungal and bacterial infections. The most common diseases that affect this plant include:

• Botrytis blight: This is a fungal disease that affects the leaves and stems of the plant. It causes grayish-brown spots on the leaves, which eventually turn black. The affected leaves may wither and die. To manage this disease, remove the affected leaves, reduce humidity, and avoid overhead watering.
• Leaf spot: This is a fungal disease characterized by small, dark spots on the leaves. It can cause premature leaf drop if left unchecked. To manage this disease, remove affected leaves, avoid overhead watering, and apply fungicides regularly.
• Root rot: Overwatering or poorly drained soil can cause root rot. It is a fungal disease that affects the roots, causing them to turn brown and mushy. To manage this disease, avoid overwatering and improve drainage.

Pest Management

Mesembryanthemum horizontale Haw. is also vulnerable to pest attacks that can cause significant damage to the plant. The most common pests that affect this plant include:

• Aphids: These are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. They can cause stunted growth and distortion of the leaves. To manage an infestation, removing the aphids by hand, using insecticidal soap, or apply neem oil.
• Spider mites: These are tiny insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing the leaves to turn yellow and dry out. A severe infestation can lead to significant damage. To manage an infestation, increase humidity, apply insecticidal soap, or use neem oil.
• Mealybugs: These are soft-bodied insects that attach themselves to the plant and suck sap from stems and leaves. They can cause yellowing and distortion of the leaves. To manage an infestation, remove the mealybugs by hand, apply insecticidal soap, or use neem oil.

Overall, proper cultural practices, such as avoiding overwatering, ensuring good drainage, and providing adequate air circulation can help prevent diseases and pests. Regular monitoring and early intervention are also crucial to manage any issues promptly.