Origin and Common Names
Mesembryanthemum linguiforme L. var. fragrans (Salm-Dyck) A.Berger, also known as Fragrant Dew Plant, is indigenous to South Africa, Namibia, and Botswana. It is a member of the Aizoaceae family, which includes numerous succulent plants. The plant's name is derived from the Greek words "mesos" meaning middle, "embryo" meaning embryo, and "anthos" meaning flower.
General Appearance
The Fragrant Dew Plant is a low-growing succulent that typically grows to be around 10cm in height. It has short finger-like leaves that grow in opposite pairs, and typically these are green or slightly reddish-brown in color. Small white flowers bloom in the summer and fall that exude a sweet and pleasant fragrance that attracts butterflies. The plant's roots run superficially, spreading out wide with a tuberous base.
Uses
The Fragrant Dew Plant is not only used for its aesthetic beauty, but it has various practical applications as well. One of its primary uses is the prevention of soil erosion in sandy or dry regions. Additionally, its tuberous roots provide sustenance for small animals such as rodents and insects. In traditional medicine, the plant's leaves have been infused to make a tea used to treat colds, sore throats, and digestive problems.
Light
Mesembryanthemum linguiforme L. var. fragrans is a sun-loving plant that thrives under full sunlight. Therefore, it is essential to place the plant in a spot that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Inadequate light can cause the plant to become leggy and weak, and it may not produce as many flowers as it should.
Temperature
This plant is native to subtropical regions, which means it can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. However, it grows best in warm temperatures ranging from 60-85°F (15-29°C). It is crucial to keep the plant away from direct drafts as it can cause the leaves to curl up and fall off. Inadequate temperature can also lead to stunted growth and lower flowering rates.
Soil
Mesembryanthemum linguiforme L. var. fragrans prefers well-draining and sandy soil. The soil should also be rich in nutrients. A pH level of between 6.0 and 7.5 is ideal for the growth of this plant. Avoid using heavy clay or water-logged soil, as it can lead to root rot. It is essential to provide the plant with good drainage to prevent the soil from getting soggy.
Cultivation Methods
Mesembryanthemum linguiforme L. var. fragrans (Salm-Dyck) A.Berger, commonly known as the "Fragrant Ice Plant," is a succulent plant that is native to South Africa and is typically grown as a houseplant. This plant requires bright light to thrive, so it should be placed in a sunny window or under a grow light. Additionally, it needs well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. Mesembryanthemum linguiforme L. var. fragrans prefers warm temperatures between 70°F and 80°F during the day and between 50°F and 60°F at night.Watering Needs
As a succulent, Mesembryanthemum linguiforme L. var. fragrans should not be overwatered. The soil should be allowed to dry out completely between waterings. Watering once a week during the growing season and once a month during the winter months is recommended. It is essential to avoid getting water on the leaves as it can cause rot.Fertilization
The Fragrant Ice Plant does not require much fertilizer, but it may be beneficial to use a diluted houseplant fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Additionally, Mesembryanthemum linguiforme L. var. fragrans responds well to a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, during the spring and summer.Pruning
Mesembryanthemum linguiforme L. var. fragrans does not require much pruning. However, it may need to be trimmed occasionally to maintain its shape. To do this, cut the stem just above a leaf. Additionally, it is normal for the plant to shed its leaves; if this occurs, simply remove the dead foliage.Propagation of Mesembryanthemum linguiforme L. var. fragrans
Mesembryanthemum linguiforme L. var. fragrans (Salm-Dyck) A.Berger, commonly known as Fragrant Ice Plant, is a succulent plant that is native to South Africa. This plant species can be propagated through different methods including:
Seeds Propagation
Seeds are the most common method of propagating this species, and they are readily available from online retailers and nurseries. To propagate M. linguiforme var. fragrans from seeds, it is important to ensure that the soil is well-drained and loose. Sow the seeds in the soil and cover them with a thin layer of sand then gently water them. To ensure optimal germination, it is recommended to sow seeds in early spring (March to April) or the fall (September to October).
Cuttings Propagation
Cuttings is another method of propagating M. linguiforme var. fragrans. This method involves taking cuttings of stem segments and rooting them in a well-draining potting mixture. The cuttings should be taken during the active growth period in spring. For best results, it’s recommended to let the cuttings dry out for one or two days before placing them in a rooting hormone and planting them. It is also important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged and maintain humidity by covering the pot with a clear plastic bag or plastic wrap until the cuttings start to root.
Division Propagation
Division is generally not recommended for this species due to the fact that it does not have many offsets. However, if a mature plant has grown large enough to divide it, remove the plant from its pot and utilize a clean, sharp knife to cut through the root ball into several pieces. Each piece should then be planted into its container with well-draining soil and watered sparingly until new growth occurs.
Disease Management
Mesembryanthemum linguiforme L. var. fragrans is susceptible to a few diseases. The common diseases are
- Root Rot: Root rot is caused by overwatering and soil that does not drain well. The infected plant appears wilted, yellow and the leaves fall off, and the stem becomes black and mushy. To manage root rot, reduce watering and improve drainage by transferring the plant to well-aerated soil.
- Leaf Spot: The plant is also prone to leaf spot. Leaf spot is caused by fungus, and infected leaves appear like they have tiny irregular shaped brown spots. To manage leaf spot, ensure to cut off the infected leaves, practice good air circulation, and remove any debris around the plant regularly.
- Stem Rot: The plant is also prone to stem rot caused by fungus, which appears like the plant's stem is mushy or soft, and the leaves wilt. To manage stem rot, avoid overwatering the plant, avoid high humidity levels, and provide proper air circulation.
Pest Management
The common pests that affect Mesembryanthemum linguiforme L. var. fragrans include:
- Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny and can be found on the plants' undersides. To manage spider mites, one can use insecticidal soap, keeping the environment humid, and spraying the plant with water.
- Mealybugs: Mealybugs are tiny, white, and can be found in groups on the plants' undersides. To manage mealybugs, one can use insecticidal soap, manually remove them using a cotton swab, and separate any infected plants from the healthy plants.
- Scale Insects: Scale insects appear like brown bumps on the plants' stems, and leaves, and they secrete a sticky liquid that attracts other pests. To manage scale insects, use Horticultural oil or insecticidal soap, apply rubbing alcohol to infected areas using cotton swabs, and isolate any infected plants.
