Origin
Nananthus tersus (N.E.Br.) G.D.Rowley is a succulent plant native to South Africa. It is commonly found in the Eastern Cape Province between Port Elizabeth and Grahamstown.
Common Names
Nananthus tersus is commonly known as "Fairy Elephant's Feet" due to the shape and texture of its leaves. It is also known by several other names including "Warty Nananthus" and "Stonecrop".
Uses
Nananthus tersus is primarily grown as an ornamental plant for its unique and attractive appearance. It is often used in rock gardens, container gardens, and as a ground cover. In traditional medicine, the roots of the plant have been used to treat skin irritations and wounds.
General Appearance
Nananthus tersus is a low-growing succulent plant with warty, elongated leaves that resemble tiny elephant feet. The leaves are green-grey in color and grow in a rosette form. The plant produces small, white or pink flowers that bloom in the summer months. It grows up to a height of 10cm and spreads up to 15 cm wide. The plant is drought-resistant and low maintenance, making it a popular choice among gardeners and plant enthusiasts.
Light Requirements
Nananthus tersus requires bright, direct sunlight to thrive. This succulent plant should be placed in a location where it can receive at least 6 hours of sunlight each day to ensure optimal growth and health. Inadequate light could cause the plant to become leggy and weak.
Temperature Requirements
This plant thrives in warm temperatures, with an average range of 18-27°C (65-80°F) being ideal. It is not frost-tolerant and will not survive in temperatures below freezing. Therefore, it is essential to move the plant indoors during the colder months if you live in an area where temperatures drop below freezing.
Soil Requirements
Nananthus tersus prefers well-draining soil that is slightly alkaline. The soil should be a mixture of sand, perlite, and peat moss to ensure adequate drainage. It is also essential to avoid soils that are dense and compact as this can put the plant at risk of root rot. Additionally, the plant should be watered only when the soil is completely dry to avoid overwatering and ensure that the roots do not become waterlogged.
Cultivation methods for Nananthus tersus
Nananthus tersus thrives best under bright shade or bright light, but it should be protected from strong afternoon sunlight. It requires well-draining soil that is slightly acidic, and the soil should never be waterlogged. For optimal performance, ensure that the soil is rich in organic matter, and it has good aeration.
If the temperature drops below freezing point, the plant should be protected from frost. Nananthus tersus can be propagated through seeds or cuttings. The seedlings must be kept in the shade until they are established, and then be moved to the exposed environment gradually.
Watering needs
Nananthus tersus is a succulent type of plant that stores water in its leaves. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which is detrimental to the plant's health. Water this plant every two weeks during the growing season, and reduce the frequency during winter to prevent excess moisture. Watering must be done at the base of the plant to avoid getting the leaves wet, which may lead to rot formation.
Fertilization
Nananthus tersus does not need a lot of fertilization. Fertilize the plant once every four months with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Reduce fertilizer use during the dormancy period and avoid applying fertilizers when the plant is not actively growing.
Pruning
Nananthus tersus does not require regular pruning but can be shaped if necessary. Pruning is best done during the growing season when the plant is actively growing. It is essential to use a disinfected tool to avoid spreading diseases. Cut out dead or damaged foliage, and shape the plant as desired.
Propagation of Nananthus tersus
Nananthus tersus is a succulent plant that produces small offsets at the base of the rosette. These offsets can be used for propagation.
Propagating Nananthus tersus by Offsets
To propagate Nananthus tersus by offsets, gently remove the offsets from the parent plant using a sharp, clean knife or scissors.
Place the offsets in a well-draining soil mix and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. It is essential to keep the soil consistently moist during the establishment period.
The offsets will root within a few weeks and will begin to produce new leaves.
Propagating Nananthus tersus by Leaf Cuttings
Another method of propagating Nananthus tersus is using leaf cuttings, but this method is less reliable than offsets.
To propagate Nananthus tersus using leaf cuttings, gently remove a healthy leaf from the parent plant by gently twisting it off.
Allow the leaf to callus over for a day or two and then place it on well-draining soil mix with the cut end inserted slightly into the soil. Keep the soil moist and in a bright, indirect light spot.
Roots will develop at the base of the leaf, and the new plantlet will eventually emerge from the cut end of the leaf. This process could take several weeks or even months, so be patient.
Disease and Pest Management for Nananthus Tersus
Nananthus tersus is a low-maintenance succulent that is generally disease and pest resistant. However, like all plants, it can still fall prey to certain problems if it is not provided with the ideal growing conditions. Here are some common diseases and pests that may affect Nananthus tersus and how you can manage them:
Diseases
1. Root Rot: Root rot is a common problem that affects many succulent plants, including Nananthus tersus. It is caused by overwatering, which leads to the roots becoming waterlogged and rotting. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and only water the plant when the soil has completely dried out. If you notice signs of root rot, such as mushy and discolored roots, remove the affected parts and repot the plant in fresh, dry soil.
2. Fungal Diseases: Fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot may occur if the plant is kept in a humid environment. To prevent these diseases, ensure the plant is kept in a well-ventilated area, and avoid getting water on the leaves. If you notice signs of fungal disease, such as white or black spots on the leaves, remove the affected leaves and treat the plant with a fungicide.
Pests
1. Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, white insects that suck sap from the plant, causing it to wilt and die. To manage mealybugs, remove them from the plant using a cotton swab dipped in alcohol. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat the plant.
2. Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the plant's sap, causing it to become discolored and dry. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with water and use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat the plant. Ensure the plant is kept in a well-ventilated area to avoid creating a humid environment that will encourage spider mites to thrive.
Regular inspection, correct watering, and proper ventilation are some of the best ways to prevent pest and disease infestation for Nananthus tersus.
