Origin
Mesembryanthemum pauxillum N.E.Br., also known as the Small-Flowered Mesembryanthemum, is a succulent plant species that is native to South Africa.
Common Names
Aside from being called Small-Flowered Mesembryanthemum, this plant is also commonly known as Little Fig Marigold, Dwarf Fig Marigold, and Dwarfiggie.
General Appearance
The Mesembryanthemum pauxillum N.E.Br. is a low-growing, spreading succulent plant that can reach a height of up to 15cm and span up to 45cm wide. Its fleshy leaves are light green in color and are triangular to egg-shaped. The leaves are smooth on the surface and have a slightly transparent appearance, allowing sunlight to pass through to the inner parts of the leaf.
The plant produces tiny flowers - about 2cm in diameter - that can bloom in various shades of pink, magenta, or purple. Blooming usually occurs in spring and early summer, but can sometimes continue throughout the summer.
Uses
Mesembryanthemum pauxillum N.E.Br. is commonly used in rock gardens, ground covers, and container gardening. Its low-growing, spreading habit makes it a popular choice for adding color and texture to small spaces. This plant is also drought-tolerant and can thrive in sandy or gravelly soils, making it a great addition to xeriscapes or gardens with minimal irrigation capabilities.
Light Requirements
Mesembryanthemum pauxillum N.E.Br. requires full sunlight to thrive. It is a sun-loving plant and needs at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day to grow and produce healthy flowers.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is adapted to hot, dry regions and can tolerate high temperatures. The ideal temperature range for Mesembryanthemum pauxillum N.E.Br. is between 70-85°F (21-29°C). It can tolerate temperatures as low as 50°F (10°C) but cannot survive freezing temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Mesembryanthemum pauxillum N.E.Br. prefers well-drained, sandy soil that is slightly acidic. It cannot tolerate wet or waterlogged soil, which can cause root rot. The soil should be enriched with organic matter before planting to improve its overall quality and fertility.
The plant grows well in poor soil conditions, making it an excellent choice for dry, barren areas. It requires minimal fertilization and can thrive in nutrient-deficient soils. However, it might benefit from occasional feeding with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Cultivation Methods:
Mesembryanthemum pauxillum N.E.Br., also known as Dwarf Trailing Ice Plant, is a drought-tolerant plant that requires full sun exposure to grow well. It is native to Africa and is mostly grown in hanging baskets or as an ornamental ground cover in rock gardens and borders. The plant prefers well-draining soils and does not tolerate wet soils, which may cause root rot.
Watering Needs:
The watering needs of Mesembryanthemum pauxillum N.E.Br. vary depending on the climate and soil types. The plant requires regular watering during its active growth season but needs less water during dormancy. Overwatering should be avoided as it increases the risk of root rot. It is best to water the plant early in the day to allow excess moisture to evaporate before nightfall.
Fertilization:
Mesembryanthemum pauxillum N.E.Br. does not require a lot of fertilizer to grow well. It is best to add a slow-release fertilizer to the soil during the planting season. A balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 is recommended. Over-fertilization should be avoided as it can burn the roots and lead to poor growth and development.
Pruning:
Mesembryanthemum pauxillum N.E.Br. requires minimal pruning for healthy growth. Regular deadheading of spent flowers can encourage the plant to produce more blooms. Trimming back the tips of the stems promotes dense branching and a more compact, uniform growth habit. Any damaged or wilted foliage should be removed promptly to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Mesembryanthemum pauxillum N.E.Br.
Mesembryanthemum pauxillum N.E.Br. can be propagated through seed and cuttings.
Seed propagation
Seeds should be sown in well-draining soil mix in early spring. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of sand or vermiculite and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Germination usually occurs within 2-4 weeks.
Cutting propagation
Mesembryanthemum pauxillum N.E.Br. can be propagated through stem cuttings. Using a sharp, clean pair of scissors or pruners, take cuttings from the tips of healthy stems. Remove the bottom leaves and dip the stem in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in well-draining soil mix and keep it moist but not waterlogged. Place the cutting in a bright, but not direct sunlight location. Check regularly for root development.
Disease and Pest Management for Mesembryanthemum pauxillum N.E.Br.
Mesembryanthemum pauxillum N.E.Br. is a succulent plant that belongs to the Aizoaceae family. It is a drought-tolerant plant that can thrive in hot and dry conditions. However, like any other plant, it is vulnerable to various diseases and pests that can affect its growth and yield. Here are some common diseases and pests that can affect Mesembryanthemum pauxillum N.E.Br. and how to manage them.
Common Diseases
1. Root Rot: Root rot is caused by overwatering or poorly drained soils. It is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant, causing them to decay and turn brown. To manage root rot, it is important to prevent overwatering and ensure that the soil is well-draining. If the plant is affected by root rot, it is best to remove the affected parts of the plant and repot it in fresh soil.
2. Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of the plant. It appears as white or gray powdery patches on the leaves. To manage powdery mildew, it is important to ensure that the plant is not overcrowded and that there is adequate air circulation around the plant. Fungicides can also be used to manage powdery mildew.
3. Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a bacterial or fungal disease that appears as brown or black spots on the leaves of the plant. The spots may have a yellow or red border. To manage leaf spot, it is important to remove the affected leaves and ensure that the plant is not overcrowded. Fungicides can also be used to manage leaf spot.
Common Pests
1. Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, white insects that suck the sap from the plant. They appear as cottony masses on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage mealybugs, it is important to remove them manually using a cotton swab or a soft brush. Insecticides can also be used to manage mealybugs.
2. Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny, red or yellow insects that feed on the leaves of the plant. They appear as fine webs on the leaves. To manage spider mites, it is important to ensure that the plant is not overcrowded and that there is adequate air circulation around the plant. Insecticides can also be used to manage spider mites.
3. Aphids: Aphids are small, green insects that suck the sap from the plant. They appear on the leaves and stems of the plant and can cause the leaves to curl and distort. To manage aphids, it is important to remove them manually using a cotton swab or a soft brush. Insecticides can also be used to manage aphids.
By following the above disease and pest management practices, Mesembryanthemum pauxillum N.E.Br. can be kept healthy and productive. Regular monitoring and timely preventive action can help in keeping the plant safe from various diseases and pests.
