Overview
Mesembryanthemum lupinum, also known as "Lupin mesembryanthemum" or "Pearl plant" is a succulent plant species belonging to the Aizoaceae family. Native to South Africa, this plant has gained immense popularity worldwide as an ornamental plant, but it also holds medicinal value.
Description
With small, greenish-grey leaves and a height of about 4-6 inches, this perennial plant has a thick, fleshy stem that supports a dense mat of leaves and flowers. The flowers are white, star-shaped, and about 0.5 inches in diameter. They bloom in the summer months and are a sight to behold in full bloom.
Common Names
Mesembryanthemum lupinum is known by several common names such as "Lupin mesembryanthemum," "Pearl plant," "Livingstone daisy," "Trailing ice plant," and "Ice plant."
Uses
Due to its stunning appearance, Mesembryanthemum lupinum is widely grown as an ornamental plant in rock gardens, containers, and hanging baskets. Its magnificent flowers also make it a favorite of gardeners. The foliage of this plant is edible and is used in salads due to its sour, citrusy taste. It also holds medicinal value and is used to treat stomach and bowel disorders.
Light Requirements
Mesembryanthemum lupinum Haw. requires full sunlight exposure for healthy growth. Thus, it is essential to position the plant in a location with an ample amount of light and free from shading by other plants or structures. A minimum of six hours of direct sunlight is required to provide the plant enough energy to grow and produce flowers.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is native to Southern Africa and prefers warm temperatures, therefore grow best in warmer climates. Mesembryanthemum lupinum Haw. can tolerate occasional light frost but grows best when the temperature is above 50°F. The plant requires a minimum temperature of 60°F for proper germination and should be grown in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11.
Soil Requirements
The plant grows well in well-drained sandy soil with a slightly acidic to slightly alkaline pH range (6.0 to 7.5). It can also tolerate poor soil, as long as it is well-drained. Mesembryanthemum lupinum Haw. prefers low organic-matter soil and can adapt to salty or saline soil. However, the key is to maintain the soil drainage to prevent standing water, which can lead to root rot and cause damage to the plant.
Cultivation Methods for Mesembryanthemum Lupinum Haw.
Mesembryanthemum lupinum Haw., commonly known as the Livingstone Daisy or Trailing Ice Plant, is a hardy drought-resistant plant that is easy to cultivate. The plant prefers well-drained soil with a mildly acidic pH between 6.0 to 7.0. It also does well in sandy, loamy, or clay soils. The plant is tolerant of salty soil and can be grown in coastal regions.
When planting the Livingstone Daisy, sow the seeds directly into the soil after the last frost. The ideal temperature for germination is between 18-21°C. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and keep them moist until they germinate. The seedlings should be well-spaced, about 15-30 cm apart.
Watering Needs for Mesembryanthemum Lupinum Haw.
The Livingstone Daisy is a drought-resistant plant. Water the plant only when the soil is dry to the touch. Over-watering can cause root rot, and the plant may not survive. Water in the morning or evening to avoid scorching the plant, as the hot sun can cause scorching on wet leaves.
It is important to note that while the plant is tolerant of drought, it still needs water to thrive. During extended periods of drought, it is important to water the plant to help it survive and maintain its health.
Fertilization for Mesembryanthemum Lupinum Haw.
The Livingstone Daisy is a low maintenance plant that does not need a lot of fertilization. Applying a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season can help the plant grow well. Alternatively, you can add compost to the soil to provide the plant with nutrients. However, avoid over-fertilizing as it can lead to excessive vegetative growth at the expense of flowers.
Pruning for Mesembryanthemum Lupinum Haw.
The Livingstone Daisy is a trailing plant that can grow about 30 cm in height and up to 60 cm in width. Regular pruning can help keep the plant in shape and promote the growth of new flowers. Prune the plant after flowering or whenever it gets too leggy. You can also pinch off the tips of the plant to encourage bushy growth and more flowers.
Propagation
The plant Mesembryanthemum lupinum Haw., also known as the dolorosa, can be propagated through several methods such as seed propagation, cuttings, and division.
Seed Propagation
One of the most common and easiest methods of propagating Mesembryanthemum lupinum is through seed propagation. Sow the seeds in a well-drained soil mix or a cactus mix soil. Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged, and cover it with a clear plastic bag to prevent water loss and to create a humid environment. Place the container in a bright, warm area but avoid direct sunlight. Germination should occur within two weeks. After germination, remove the clear plastic bag, and transplant the seedlings into individual containers to grow until they are ready to be transplanted into the garden.
Cuttings
Mesembryanthemum lupinum also propagates well through cuttings. Take a 2-4 inch stem cutting and allow the cut to callus for a few days in a shaded, dry area. After which, dip the cutting into rooting hormone powder and insert it into well-draining soil mix or cactus mix soil. Keep the soil moist and avoid direct sunlight to prevent burning of the cutting. Roots should develop within two to four weeks, and the cutting can be transplanted to individual containers on to the garden.
Division
Finally, it is also possible to propagate Mesembryanthemum lupinum through division. Carefully dig up the plant clump and separate the root mass into several smaller sections. Replant the smaller sections into well-draining soil mix or cactus mix soil. Keep the soil moist and avoid direct sunlight to prevent wilting, and the new plants should establish well.
Disease Management
One of the most common diseases that can affect Mesembryanthemum lupinum Haw. is root rot. This disease is caused by fungi that thrive in waterlogged soil. To manage this disease, ensure that the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering the plant. In addition, you can apply fungicides to prevent the onset of the disease, especially during the rainy season.
Another disease that can affect this plant is powdery mildew. This fungal disease appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves and stems of the plant. To prevent the onset of this disease, keep the plant well-ventilated and avoid overcrowding. You can use a mixture of baking soda and water or a fungicide to manage the disease.
Pest Management
One of the most common pests that can affect Mesembryanthemum lupinum Haw. is aphids. These pests feed on the sap of the plant, causing stunted growth and curling of the leaves. To control aphids, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to feed on the aphids.
Another pest that can affect this plant is spider mites. These pests are tiny and can be identified by the fine webbing they create between the leaves of the plant. To manage spider mites, you can use a mixture of water and dishwashing soap or a miticide. You can also introduce beneficial insects like predatory mites to feed on the spider mites.
Finally, caterpillars can also affect the plant. These pests can eat the leaves of the plant, causing defoliation. To manage caterpillars, you can use Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) or a natural insecticide like pyrethrum. You can also handpick the caterpillars from the plant.
