Origin
Mesembryanthemum schollii Salm-Dyck var. caledonicum L.Bolus is a succulent plant from the family Aizoaceae that is native to South Africa.
Common Names
Common names for this plant include Ice Plant, Bérets blancs, Caldoches or Calech', Pigface, and the Australian name for this plant is South African Ice Plant.
Uses
Mesembryanthemum schollii Salm-Dyck var. caledonicum L.Bolus has various uses. The leaves of this plant are edible and can be consumed raw or cooked. They are used in salads and sandwiches to add some crunch to the dish. In addition, the plant is also used as an ornamental plant to add color to gardens and landscapes. Finally, this plant is known for its medicinal properties and it is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as arthritis, diarrhea, and skin infections.
General Appearance
Mesembryanthemum schollii Salm-Dyck var. caledonicum L.Bolus is a low-growing plant that reaches a height of about 25-30 cm and can spread up to 50 cm. The leaves of this plant are fleshy, triangular, and covered with small white hairs. They grow in opposite pairs and can be up to 3 cm long. The flowers of this plant are daisy-like and can be pink or white in color. They bloom in the summer and autumn months and are about 2-3 cm in diameter. The plant produces small seeds that are dispersed by the wind.
Light Requirements
Mesembryanthemum schollii Salm-Dyck var. caledonicum L.Bolus prefers full sun to partial shade. It needs at least 6 hours of sunlight a day to grow and thrive. Without enough sunlight, the plant can become leggy and weak.
Temperature Requirements
It is a succulent that can tolerate high temperatures but cannot survive freezing temperatures. It thrives in warm temperatures ranging from 70°F to 85°F. During winter, the plant requires at least 50°F to survive.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH range between 6.0 and 7.5. The soil should be nutrient-rich, and organic matter can be added to enhance its fertility. A mixture of sand, perlite, and peat moss can create a suitable potting medium for the plant.
Cultivation
The plant is best grown in well-draining, sandy soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. It requires full sun for at least six hours a day and protection from frost. The plant cannot tolerate temperatures below freezing and should be kept indoors or in a greenhouse during winter. Seeds can be sown directly into the soil during the spring or summer months, or they can be started indoors and transplanted outdoors after the last frost.
Watering Needs
Mesembryanthemum schollii Salm-Dyck var. caledonicum L.Bolus is a drought-tolerant plant and should be watered only when the soil is completely dry. Avoid overwatering the plant, as it can lead to root rot. In the summer months, it may require more frequent watering due to increased evaporation, while in the winter months, it can go longer without water.
Fertilization
The plant does not require frequent fertilization; however, a slow-release fertilizer can be applied during the growing season to encourage healthy growth. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium to maintain a healthy balance of nutrients in the soil.
Pruning
Mesembryanthemum schollii Salm-Dyck var. caledonicum L.Bolus does not require regular pruning, but deadheading spent blooms can encourage new growth and prolong flowering. Prune back any dead or damaged branches with clean, sharp shears to maintain a neat appearance and promote healthy growth.
Propagation of Mesembryanthemum schollii Salm-Dyck var. caledonicum L.Bolus
Mesembryanthemum schollii Salm-Dyck var. caledonicum L.Bolus can be propagated by various methods, including:
1. Seed propagation
The easiest and most common method to propagate Mesembryanthemum schollii Salm-Dyck var. caledonicum L.Bolus is through seed propagation. Collect the seeds from a mature plant and sow them in a well-draining mix of soil and sand. Water the soil regularly, and keep it moist until the seedlings start to emerge. It usually takes around one to two weeks for the seedlings to emerge.
2. Stem cutting propagation
This plant can also be propagated by taking stem cuttings. Cut a healthy stem from the parent plant and remove its leaves from the bottom half. Dip the cut end of the stem into rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining mix of soil and sand. Water the soil regularly, and keep it moist until new growth appears. It usually takes around two to four weeks for the cutting to root and develop a new plant.
3. Division propagation
Division propagation can also be used to propagate Mesembryanthemum schollii Salm-Dyck var. caledonicum L.Bolus. Divide the parent plant into two or more sections, making sure each section has roots and a sufficient number of stems and leaves. Plant each section in a well-draining mix of soil and sand, water the soil regularly, and keep it moist until new growth appears.
Mesembryanthemum schollii Salm-Dyck var. caledonicum L.Bolus is a beautiful and low-maintenance plant that can be easily propagated using any of the above methods. With proper care and attention, the plant will thrive and beautify any garden or indoor space.
Disease Management
Mesembryanthemum schollii Salm-Dyck var. caledonicum L.Bolus is a hardy plant that is not typically affected by diseases. However, if the plant is overwatered or grown in excessively humid conditions, it may be susceptible to root rot. To prevent root rot, ensure that the soil is well-draining and that the plant is not sitting in standing water. If root rot is detected, remove the affected plant parts and repot the plant in fresh soil.
Pest Management
The most common pests that may affect Mesembryanthemum schollii Salm-Dyck var. caledonicum L.Bolus are aphids and spider mites. These pests can cause damage to the leaves and stems of the plant, affecting its overall health and growth.
To manage aphids, rinse the plant with a strong stream of water to dislodge them from the leaves. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them. To manage spider mites, increase the humidity around the plant by misting it regularly or placing a humidifier nearby. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control spider mites.
Regularly inspecting your plant for signs of pests and following good hygiene practices, such as cleaning plant debris and disinfecting your gardening tools, can help prevent pest infestations.
