Overview
Mesembryanthemum vallis-mariae, also known as Mesembryanthemum vallis-marinae, is a succulent plant belonging to the family Aizoaceae. It is native to the Western Cape province in South Africa and was first discovered by Dinter & Schwantes in 1927.
Common Names
The plant is commonly referred to as Valley of Mary Mesemb, Valley of the Marys Vygie, or Dinteranthus vallis-mariae.
Appearance
This low-growing succulent usually has a height of no more than 10 cm and a spread of up to 30 cm. It produces a cluster of rosettes with thick, triangular to cylindrical leaves that are bluish-grey or green in color. The leaves can range from 5–30 mm in length and 3–7 mm in width.
The flowers of Mesembryanthemum vallis-mariae typically appear in spring and summer, and they are solitary, daisy-like, and brightly colored in shades of magenta, purple, and pink.
Uses
Due to its attractive appearance, Mesembryanthemum vallis-mariae is frequently cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens, rockeries, and containers. It is drought-tolerant and prefers well-drained soil and full sun exposure.
In addition, the plant is used in traditional medicine by indigenous people in South Africa for its purported antidiabetic and antimicrobial properties.
Light Requirements
Mesembryanthemum vallis-mariae thrives best in full sun. Exposure to at least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day is essential for its proper growth. However, the plant can still grow in partial shade, provided that it receives at least 3 hours of direct sunlight a day.
Temperature Requirements
Mesembryanthemum vallis-mariae grows well in warm temperatures and can tolerate mild frost. It is perfect for USDA zones 9 and 10. The plant thrives best in temperatures between 68° F and 86° F (20° C to 30° C).
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-draining soil and loamy soil. The soil must be slightly acidic to neutral (pH range: 5.5-7.0). It is vital to ensure that the soil is rich in organic matter. Adding organic matter such as compost or peat moss to the soil before planting is essential to provide the plant with enough nutrients for its growth.
Cultivation Methods for Mesembryanthemum vallis-mariae
Cultivating Mesembryanthemum vallis-mariae requires a well-draining soil mix with soil, sand, and perlite added in equal parts. The plant prefers full sunlight and can tolerate temperatures between 50-75°F. Mesembryanthemum vallis-mariae plants should be placed in a well-ventilated location with good airflow, as stagnant air can lead to fungal diseases.
Watering Needs for Mesembryanthemum vallis-mariae
Mesembryanthemum vallis-mariae requires moderate watering during the growing season. The soil should be kept slightly moist but not waterlogged, and water should be added sparingly during the plant's period of dormancy. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is essential to let the soil dry out between waterings.
Fertilization of Mesembryanthemum vallis-mariae
Mesembryanthemum vallis-mariae should be fertilized during the active growing season, typically during the spring and summer months. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer with equal parts of nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium can help improve the plant's growth and flowering. Fertilizer should be halved during the fall and winter or avoided altogether as the plant goes dormant.
Pruning Mesembryanthemum vallis-mariae
Mesembryanthemum vallis-mariae typically does not require extensive pruning except for the removal of dry or dead leaves or spent flowers. The plants bloom in the summer months, and deadheading can encourage more flowering. Pinch back the stems once to try and create a bushier plant. Reduce watering after pruning, giving it time to recover on its own without the additional stress of moisture.
Propagation of Mesembryanthemum vallis-mariae Dinter & Schwantes
Mesembryanthemum vallis-mariae Dinter & Schwantes can be propagated through seeds, cuttings, and division.
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Mesembryanthemum vallis-mariae Dinter & Schwantes can be sown in the early spring season. The soil bed should be well-draining and rich in organic matter. The seeds should be sown thinly, covered with a light layer of fine soil, and watered gently. The soil bed should be kept moist, but not waterlogged until germination occurs. Germination usually takes 2-4 weeks. After germination, the seedlings should be thinned out to avoid overcrowding and should be transplanted to individual pots or a well-prepared garden bed.
Cutting Propagation
Cuttings of Mesembryanthemum vallis-mariae Dinter & Schwantes can be taken during the early summer season. The cuttings should be taken from healthy, disease-free plants. The cutting should be about 3-4 inches long, and all the leaves on the lower half of the cutting should be removed. The cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone and inserted into a well-draining soil mix. The soil mix should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. After 2-4 weeks, the cuttings should start showing new growth, indicating that they have rooted. The rooted cuttings should be transplanted to individual pots or a well-prepared garden bed.
Division Propagation
Division is the simplest method of propagating Mesembryanthemum vallis-mariae Dinter & Schwantes. The plant should be dug up, and the root system should be carefully divided into several clumps. Each clump should have at least one healthy shoot and a good root system. The divided clumps should be replanted immediately in a well-prepared garden bed, watered well, and kept moist until they become established.
Disease Management
There are a few common diseases that can affect Mesembryanthemum vallis-mariae, including root rot and leaf spot.
Root rot is usually caused by the overwatering of the soil, leading to fungal growth. To manage root rot, it is essential to remove any infected plant parts and improve the soil drainage. Avoid overwatering and use a fungicide if necessary.
Leaf spot is caused by fungal growth on the leaves of the plant, leading to discoloration and decay. To manage leaf spot, it is essential to remove and discard any infected leaves or plants. Improve air circulation by pruning the plant as needed, and use a fungicide if necessary.
Pest Management
There are a few common pests that can affect Mesembryanthemum vallis-mariae, including mealybugs, spider mites, and thrips.
Mealybugs are small, white, cotton-like insects that can infest the plant's stems and leaves, leading to stunted growth and decay. To manage mealybugs, it is essential to remove any visible insects using a cloth or cotton swab soaked in alcohol. Use an insecticide if necessary and improve the air circulation around the plant.
Spider mites are tiny, eight-legged insects that can spin webs on the leaves, leading to discoloration and decay. To manage spider mites, it is essential to remove any visible eggs or insects using a cloth or cotton swab. Use an insecticide or neem oil if necessary and improve the air circulation around the plant.
Thrips are small, thin insects that can infest the plant's leaves and flowers, leading to discoloration and deformity. To manage thrips, it is essential to remove any visible insects using a cloth or cotton swab soaked in alcohol. Use an insecticide if necessary and improve the air circulation around the plant.
