Origin
Orbea gilbertii (Plowes) Bruyns is a succulent plant native to southwestern Africa, specifically in Angola, Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe.
Common Names
Orbea gilbertii has various common names which include African Starfish Cactus, Carrion Flower, and Stapeliad.
Uses
The plant is famous for its unique fragrance, which smells like rotting flesh- hence its common name "Carrion Flower." Orbea gilbertii is used to cure snake bites and scorpion stings in the areas where it grows naturally. The root sap's wound healed properties are attributed to its effectiveness against venom from such animals.
General Appearance
Orbea gilbertii has dark green stems with burgundy stripes, making them very attractive. The stems grow in clusters and form a mat. Each stem is approximately 5-angled and up to 15cm long, with many tiny brown dots. The plant produces small purple-brown star-shaped flowers with a yellow center, which measures around 2cm in diameter. The flowers emit a foul odor to attract flies, which are the plant's primary pollinators.
Light Requirements
Orbea gilbertii requires bright but filtered light to grow healthily. The plant grows well in partial shade, but it's essential to maintain a balance to prevent the leaves from becoming sunburnt. Direct sunlight can cause scorching of the leaves, leading to stunted growth or discoloration.
Temperature Requirements
The plant thrives in warm conditions with a mean annual temperature of about 20-25°C. It can tolerate temperature variations of up to 10°C. However, it's essential to maintain consistent temperatures and avoid exposing it to extreme temperature fluctuations. The plant's growth is hindered in low temperatures, and prolonged periods of low temperatures can cause damage to the plant.
Soil Requirements
Orbea gilbertii grows well in well-draining soils rich in organic matter. The plant prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range of 6 -7. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged to prevent root rot. A sandy loam soil mixture is recommended, but a potting mix with good drainage can also work well.
Cultivation Methods for Orbea Gilbertii
Orbea Gilbertii is a unique plant that requires specific care to grow healthy and strong. When cultivating Orbea Gilbertii, it is crucial to ensure it has adequate lighting, proper soil conditions, and appropriate watering techniques.
The ideal location to cultivate Orbea Gilbertii is a warm and bright area in your home, such as a windowsill. When planting, ensure the soil is well-draining with excellent aeration. A suitable potting mix should consist of one-part perlite or coarse sand and two parts fertile soil.
Watering Needs for Orbea Gilbertii
Watering is another essential aspect of Orbea Gilbertii's care routine. Overwatering can harm the plant by causing root rot. Ensure you only water when the soil is dry to the touch, approximately every two weeks. During the winter months, you can reduce the watering frequency since the plant's growth rate is slower.
It would help if you were cautious with the amount of water you provide to ensure the soil does not stay soggy. Use a drainage dish to prevent waterlogging and dump any standing water after watering.
Fertilization
Fertilizing your Orbea Gilbertii is essential to get the best results from the plant. The plant does not need frequent fertilization, and feeding it once every three months is enough. Use a cactus fertilizer at quarter strength or incorporate a slow-release fertilizer to the soil mix when planting.
More importantly, make sure you follow the manufacturer's instructions to avoid overfeeding the plant, which can be harmful to its growth and development.
Pruning
Pruning is an essential part of Orbea Gilbertii's care routine, as it helps keep the plant healthy and aesthetically appealing. You can prune the plant before repotting if the roots have outgrown the container. This helps keep the plant in good shape and promotes healthy growth.
If the plant has overgrown, you can trim the tips of the branches to maintain the plant's shape. Additionally, you can remove dead or yellow leaves to promote new growth.
Orbea Gilbertii is an exciting plant to cultivate, and with the right care, it can thrive in your home for years. Follow these care tips to ensure your plant stays healthy and beautiful.
Propagation Methods for Orbea gilbertii (Plowes) Bruyns
Orbea gilbertii can be propagated through several methods, including:
1. Stem Cuttings
The easiest and most common method of propagating Orbea gilbertii is through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem and make a clean cut just below a node with a sharp knife. Allow the cutting to dry out for a few days and then plant it in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and in a warm, bright location until new growth emerges.
2. Division
Orbea gilbertii can also be propagated through division during the plant's active growing season, which is in the spring or fall. Carefully remove the plant from its container or the ground and gently separate the root system into two or more sections. Each section should contain a healthy stem with a good root system. Plant each section in its own container or in a new location in the ground, making sure the soil is well-draining and moist.
3. Seed Propagation
Orbea gilbertii can be propagated through seeds, although this method is more time-consuming and can be challenging. Plant the seeds in well-draining soil and cover them lightly with a thin layer of soil. Keep the soil moist and in a warm, bright location. Germination may take several weeks or even months.
Regardless of the propagation method you choose, create a warm and humid environment for the plant until it establishes new growth. This will give your new plants the best chance for success.
Disease and Pest Management for Orbea Gilbertii
Orbea Gilbertii, like any other plant, can be affected by various diseases and pests. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect this plant:
Diseases
1. Bacterial and Fungal Rots: Bacterial and fungal rots can cause the plant to decay and die. You can prevent this by watering the plant adequately and allowing the soil to dry between watering. Also, ensure that you remove any infected parts of the plant and do not allow the plant to sit in water.
2. Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is caused by a fungal infection that causes brown, circular spots on the plant's leaves. To manage this, remove any infected leaves immediately and avoid getting water on the leaves when watering the plant.
Pests
1. Mealybugs: Mealybugs are common pests that suck sap from the plant, causing it to wither and die. You can manage mealybugs by using insecticides such as neem oil or by wiping the plant's leaves and stems with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol.
2. Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that infest the plant, sucking sap from it and causing it to dry out. You can manage spider mites by regularly spraying the plant with water or insecticidal soap.
3. Scale Insects: Scale insects are also sap-sucking pests that can infest the plant, causing it to weaken and eventually die. You can manage scale insects by using insecticides or by wiping the plant's leaves and stems with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol.
Regularly inspecting your plant for any signs of disease or pests and taking appropriate action immediately can help prevent the issue from worsening and ultimately save your plant.
