Origin
Orbea baldratii (A.C.White & B.Sloane) Bruyns subsp. somalensis Bruyns is a succulent plant belonging to the Apocynaceae family. Its origin is traced from the Horn of Africa at the easternmost region of the African continent. Specifically, the plant hails from Somalia and is common in the Somaliland region.
Common Names
Orbea baldratii (A.C.White & B.Sloane) Bruyns subsp. somalensis Bruyns is widely known by its native name "Girgir" in the Somali language. Girgir is a reference to the plant's hairy exterior. The plant is also known as "Carrion Flower" due to its pungent odor, which attracts pollinators like blowflies.
Uses
Orbea baldratii (A.C.White & B.Sloane) Bruyns subsp. somalensis Bruyns has several medicinal properties and is used for treating various health conditions. The plant has antibacterial properties, making it useful in treating infections and reducing inflammation. Additionally, the plant is known to have antivenom properties and is used in managing snakebites. Besides its medicinal uses, Girgir is also used in traditional practices such as divination, where the plant is used as a medium for communicating with the spirits. The plant is also a popular ornamental plant due to its unique appearance.
General Appearance
Orbea baldratii (A.C.White & B.Sloane) Bruyns subsp. somalensis Bruyns has a unique appearance that makes it stand out among other succulent plants. The plant has fleshy stems that are covered in fine hairs, giving it a fuzzy appearance. The flowers are the most distinctive feature of Girgir, and they are star-shaped with reddish-brown petals that have a spotted pattern. The flowers have a distinct carrion-like odor that attracts pollinators, mainly blowflies. Girgir grows up to a height of 15cm and can spread up to 30cm in width. The plant requires minimal care and thrives in well-draining soil and direct sunlight.
Light Requirements
Orbea baldratii subsp. somalensis prefers bright but indirect light. Direct sunlight can cause damage to the plant, so it is best to place it near a window with a sheer curtain or in a shaded outdoor area with ample natural light.
Temperature Requirements
This plant thrives in warm temperatures between 65°F to 85°F (18°C to 29°C). It is important to avoid exposing the plant to temperatures below 50°F (10°C) as it can result in stunted growth or even death.
Soil Requirements
Orbea baldratii subsp. somalensis requires well-draining and porous soil. A blend of 50% cactus soil mixed with 50% perlite or coarse sand works well. This mixture allows for adequate drainage and prevents waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Additionally, the plant prefers slightly acidic to neutral soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0.
Cultivation
Orbea baldratii subsp. somalensis can be cultivated either indoors or outdoors in warm and dry climates, as it thrives in arid conditions. When planting, use a well-draining, sandy or gravel-based cactus potting mix. If growing indoors, choose a spot with a lot of light or under a grow light if natural light is deficient.
Watering
During the growing season, it is recommended to water Orbea baldratii subsp. somalensis once a week, allowing the soil to dry out between watering intervals. During the winter months, water sparingly as the plant enters a dormant phase. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so take extra care not to overdo it.
Fertilization
Fertilize Orbea baldratii subsp. somalensis during the growing season, either monthly or every two weeks, with a low nitrogen, high phosphorus and potassium cactus fertilizer. Dilute the fertilizer to half strength to avoid chemical burns.
Pruning
Pruning is not required for this plant, but you can remove any damaged or withered stems, using clean and sterilized pruning tools. Keeping the plant neat and trimmed can also help with its overall aesthetics.
Propagation of Orbea baldratii subsp. somalensis
Orbea baldratii subsp. somalensis can be propagated through several methods including:
Stem Cuttings
One of the easiest ways to propagate Orbea baldratii subsp. somalensis is through stem cuttings. Cut a stem of the plant with a sharp, sterile knife just above a node. Allow the cutting to air dry for a few days before planting it in cactus/succulent soil mix. Keep the soil moist but not too wet, and place the pot in a warm, bright spot. The cutting should root in a few weeks and begin to grow.
Seed Propagation
Another way to propagate Orbea baldratii subsp. somalensis is by planting its seeds. Collect the seeds when the fruit splits open and allow them to dry for a few days. Plant the dry seeds in a pot filled with well-draining soil and cover lightly with soil. Keep the soil moist and warm, preferably around 75-80°F. The seeds should germinate in a few weeks.
Division
Orbea baldratii subsp. somalensis can also be propagated through division. Divide the plant during its active growing season, making sure each section has several stems and some roots. Replant each section in its own pot with well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and warm until the plants are established.
Disease Management
Orbea baldratii subsp. somalensis is generally a disease-resistant plant, but it can still fall prey to certain fungal and bacterial diseases. The most common disease that affects this species is root rot, which is usually caused by overwatering or poor soil drainage. To prevent this disease, it is important to ensure that the soil is well-draining and the plant is not watered excessively. Fungicides can also be used to manage the disease.
Another common disease that can affect Orbea baldratii subsp. somalensis is leaf spot, which is a fungal disease that causes small, circular or irregularly shaped spots on the leaves. This disease can be prevented by avoiding overhead watering, practicing good sanitation practices, and using fungicides when necessary.
Viruses can also affect this plant and cause stunted growth or distorted leaves. Unfortunately, there are no cures for plant viruses, and infected plants should be removed and destroyed to prevent the spread of the virus to healthy plants.
Pest Management
Although Orbea baldratii subsp. somalensis is not typically affected by many pests, there are still some common ones that can damage the plant. The most common pests that may infest this plant are mealybugs and scale insects.
Mealybugs are small, soft, white insects that usually congregate on the undersides of leaves or in leaf axils. They can be removed by washing the plant with a solution of water and dish soap or by using a commercially available insecticide.
Scale insects are small, oval-shaped insects that attach themselves to leaves and stems and feed on the plant sap. They can be treated with a solution of water and dish soap or by using a commercial insecticide. It is also important to prune and discard any heavily infested plant parts to prevent the spread of the infestation.
Regular inspection of the plant for any signs of pests or diseases is essential in preventing infestations and managing any problems that may arise.
