Overview
Orbea lutea (N.E.Br.) Bruyns subsp. lutea is a cactus-like succulent plant that belongs to the family of Apocynaceae. It is a perennial plant that is native to South Africa and commonly known as the carrion flower due to its unpleasant smell that attracts flies and other insects.Appearance
The plant grows up to 10 cm in height and up to 20 cm in diameter. The stem is green, thick and covered with tubercles, giving it a cactus-like appearance. The stem is usually single, but may sometimes have several branches. The leaves are absent or reduced to small scales, and the plant has no true leaves. The flowers are yellow and star-shaped, with a diameter of up to 3 cm. The petals are hairy and have a wavy edge, giving them a unique appearance.Common Names
The plant is commonly known as carrion flower, as it produces a smell similar to that of rotting flesh, which attracts flies and other insects.Uses
The plant is not commonly used for medicinal or culinary purposes. However, it is sometimes grown as an ornamental plant due to its unique appearance and interesting smell. The plant is also used by some communities in South Africa for traditional cultural practices. The flowers are sometimes used as a natural insecticide to keep the flies away. In conclusion, Orbea lutea (N.E.Br.) Bruyns subsp. lutea is a unique and interesting succulent plant native to South Africa. With its cactus-like appearance and carrion-like odor, it is a popular ornamental plant and has traditional uses in some communities.Light Requirements:
The Orbea lutea subsp. lutea plant prefers bright and indirect sunlight rather than direct sunlight. It can tolerate a few hours of direct sunlight, but prolonged direct sunlight exposure can burn its leaves.
Temperature Requirements:
The plant Orbea lutea subsp. lutea can tolerate a wide temperature range, but it thrives in warm temperatures between 20°C-30°C (68°F-86°F). It does not tolerate frost or extremely low temperatures and should be kept away from cold drafts.
Soil Requirements:
The Orbea lutea plant subsp. lutea prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. A soil mix containing sand, perlite, and peat moss is recommended, which will provide good drainage while also retaining moisture. The plant should be repotted every 2-3 years using fresh soil.
Cultivation
Orbea lutea (N.E.Br.) Bruyns subsp. lutea, also known as the Carrion flower, is a succulent plant that is relatively easy to cultivate. The plant thrives in a bright, sunny location, making it ideal for growing in a south-facing window or a greenhouse. It is essential to ensure that the plant receives at least six hours of sunlight each day, as this will help it to grow and produce blooms.
Watering Needs
The Carrion flower is a drought-tolerant plant that can go for several weeks without water. However, it is essential to ensure that the soil is well-draining as the plant cannot survive in waterlogged soil. Water the plant once every two to three weeks, allowing the soil to dry out completely before watering again. During the winter months, water the plant sparingly as the plant is in dormancy and requires less water.
Fertilization
The Carrion flower is not a heavy feeder, and therefore, there is no need for regular fertilization. Fertilize the plant once every two to three months during the growing season using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Dilute the fertilizer to half strength to prevent fertilizer burn and apply it to the soil according to the package instructions.
Pruning
The Carrion flower does not require regular pruning, but it is a good idea to remove any dead or damaged leaves to maintain the plant's appearance. Using a pair of sharp, clean scissors or pruning shears, cut the leaf off the plant as close to the stem as possible. Be careful not to damage the stem or any other leaves during the pruning process.
Propagation of Orbea lutea subsp. lutea
Orbea lutea subsp. lutea is a succulent that can be propagated through three primary methods: seed germination, stem cuttings, and division.
Seed Germination
The easiest propagation method for Orbea lutea subsp. lutea is seed propagation. To begin, harvest the seeds from the plant pods and dry them out in the open air. Once the seeds are dry, sow them in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a warm location, preferably near a window receiving indirect sunlight. In two to three weeks, the seeds should start to germinate, and the plant will begin to sprout.
Stem Cuttings
The second propagation method for Orbea lutea subsp. lutea is stem cuttings. To begin, cut off a branch of the plant. Make sure the cutting is at least two inches long and has several leaves attached to it. Allow the cutting to dry out in the open air for a few days before planting it in nutrient-rich soil. Do not water the cutting until it has rooted itself into the soil. Keep the plant out of the sun while it's taking root. In a few weeks, the cutting should start to grow, and new buds should appear on the plant.
Division
The third method for propagating Orbea lutea subsp. lutea is division. This process involves separating mature plants it into smaller sections and replanting them. To do this, carefully remove the plant from its pot and separate its roots into as many parts as possible. Remove any dead roots, then replant each section in its pot. Keep your newly divided plant in a shaded area and avoid watering it until the roots have taken hold.
Disease Management
Orbea lutea (N.E.Br.) Bruyns subsp. lutea is not known to be affected by any serious diseases. However, fungal infections can sometimes occur due to high humidity and poor air circulation. To prevent this, it is essential to maintain good plant hygiene by removing dead leaves and flowers from the plant. The soil should also be allowed to dry out between watering and avoid excess watering.
Pest Management
Mealybugs and spider mites are the most common pests known to infest Orbea lutea (N.E.Br.) Bruyns subsp. lutea. The former appears as waxy white cotton on the stem, while the latter causes yellowing of the foliage, webbing, and tiny black dots on the leaves.
To control mealybugs, gently wipe them off with a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol or soap solution. Also, check for any nearby plants that may have mealybugs and isolate them to prevent the pest from spreading.
For spider mites, increase humidity around the plant by misting it regularly and wiping its leaves with a damp cloth. You may also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill spider mites. Avoid using chemical insecticides as they may harm the plant and beneficial insects like bees that help pollinate the flowers.
