Overview
Mesembryanthemum loreum L. is a succulent plant species that is native to southern Africa. It belongs to the family Aizoaceae, which contains a variety of herbs, shrubs, and climbers, many of which are used as ornamental plants.
Common Names
Mesembryanthemum loreum L. is commonly known as Papegaaibekkie, Parrot Beak, or Bird's Head. The plant has derived its name because of the appearance of its flowers, which resemble bird's beak.
Appearance
Mesembryanthemum loreum L. is a small, low-growing, perennial succulent that seldom grows higher than 5 cm. The plant has small, linear leaves that are light to the greyish-green in color. The leaves have a velvety texture and are covered with fine hairs that serve as a means of reducing water loss through transpiration. The flowers are tubular and bright yellow or orange and appear in dense clusters at the end of the stems during summer and autumn.
Uses
Mesembryanthemum loreum L. is primarily grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes due to its colorful flowers and attractive foliage. It is also used in traditional medicine in southern Africa to treat a variety of ailments ranging from diarrhea, dysentery, hemorrhoids, and urinary tract infections.
Light Requirements
Mesembryanthemum loreum L. thrives in bright light conditions. Therefore, it is best to place them in areas with full sun exposure or at least eight hours of direct sunlight each day. However, they can also tolerate partial shade for a few hours each day. Insufficient light often results in poor growth and smaller flowers.
Temperature Requirements
Native to South Africa, Mesembryanthemum loreum L. is adapted to arid conditions. They can tolerate hot temperatures of up to 95°F (35°C), but they grow best in average temperatures (60-70°F or 15-21°C during the day, and 50-55°F or 10-13°C at night). Therefore, they can be grown outdoors in most regions with warm summers or indoors in bright rooms with cooler temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Mesembryanthemum loreum L. is a succulent and requires deep, well-draining soil with good aeration to prevent root rot. Therefore, it is best to use a potting mix that contains coarse sand or perlite to improve drainage. Additionally, the soil should be slightly acidic with a pH ranging from 6.0 to 6.5. It is essential to avoid heavy, water-retaining soils as they do not suit this plant.
Cultivation Methods
The Mesembryanthemum loreum L. is a drought-tolerant plant that grows well in well-draining soil. It is advisable to plant it in a spot that receives full sun. The plant usually grows well in hot and dry conditions, and it does not require regular watering, except when it is young and establishing a root system.
Watering Needs
During the plant's establishment phase, it is recommended to water it frequently to establish solid roots. However, once the plant establishes the roots, it can go without water for as long as a week or two depending on the humidity and temperature. Overwatering the Mesembryanthemum loreum L. can cause root rot, which can be disastrous.
Fertilization
The Mesembryanthemum loreum L. does not need fertilization, and applying too much can cause issues to the plant. Nevertheless, applying a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month is sufficient. Always apply the fertilizer according to the manufacturer's directions and avoid getting it too close to the plant's stem.
Pruning
Pruning the Mesembryanthemum loreum L. is not necessary. It has a trailing growth habit and will fill its area eventually. However, it is recommended that you pinch off spent blooms to promote new growth and maintain its shape. Additionally, removing old growth can assist with the plant's airflow and keep it away from diseases.
Propagation of Mesembryanthemum loreum L.
Mesembryanthemum loreum L. is commonly known as Dewy Mesemb and is a beautiful succulent plant that is commonly grown for its attractive foliage and stunning flowers. Propagation of Mesembryanthemum loreum L. can be done by several methods that are discussed below.
Propagation by Seeds
Seeds are the most common propagation method for Mesembryanthemum loreum L. To propagate via seeds, first, collect mature seeds from a healthy plant. Sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mix in a container or seed tray. After sowing the seeds, cover the container with a plastic sheet or lid to maintain humidity. Keep the container in bright light and maintain a temperature of around 20-25°C. It usually takes two to four weeks for the seeds to germinate. Transplant the seedlings into individual pots when they have developed a couple of true leaves.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is an economical and quick way to propagate Mesembryanthemum loreum L. To propagate via cuttings, take a healthy stem cutting of about 8-10 cm long from a mature plant. Allow the cutting to callus for a couple of days before sticking it in the soil. Use a well-draining soil mix and keep the cutting in a bright location with indirect sunlight. Keep the soil moist, and it usually takes around four weeks for the cuttings to root and develop leaves. After the development of leaves, transplant each cutting into individual pots.
Propagation by Division
Propagation by division is another method to propagate Mesembryanthemum loreum L. First, remove the plant from its container and gently separate the root system into several pieces. Each piece must have some roots and at least one stem. Plant each division into an individual pot with a well-draining soil mix. Water the soil after planting, and do not water frequently until the plant recovers from the operation.
Disease management for Mesembryanthemum loreum L.
Mesembryanthemum loreum L. is a hardy plant that is not often affected by diseases. However, it can become susceptible to fungal and bacterial infections, especially when grown in humid conditions.
The most common diseases that could afflict Mesembryanthemum loreum L. include:
- Leaf spot disease: This is characterized by the development of dark spots on the leaves, usually caused by fungal infections. To manage this, one can remove the infected plants and ensure that the plant is grown in well-draining soil and spaced out to allow good airflow.
- Root rot: Too much water can cause the roots to rot, leading to stunted growth or even death. To prevent this, ensure that the soil is well-drained and avoid over-watering the plant.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal infection is characterized by the development of a white powder on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage this, one can apply fungicide, or remove the infected plants to prevent the spread of the disease.
Pest management for Mesembryanthemum loreum L.
Mesembryanthemum loreum L. is not often affected by pests, but it can become a target of snails, slugs, and other insects, especially when grown in humid conditions.
The most common pests that could afflict this plant include:
- Snails and slugs: These can cause extensive damage to the plants by chewing on the leaves and stems. To manage this, one can handpick the snails and slugs and apply baits around the plants.
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the leaves and stems, causing the plant to become weak. To manage this, one can apply insecticides or use a strong jet of water to wash away the aphids.
- Thrips: These tiny insects can cause the leaves to turn yellow and become deformed. To manage this, one can apply an insecticidal soap or remove the infected plants to prevent the spread of the disease.
