Overview
Orbea valida (N.E.Br.) Bruyns subsp. occidentalis Bruyns is a succulent plant that belongs to the Apocynaceae family, and it is native to southern Africa.Common Names
This plant is commonly known as the "Carrion Flower" or "Starfish Flower," as its flowers resemble a starfish and emit an odor similar to carrion, which attracts flies for pollination.Uses
In its native habitat, Orbea valida subs. occidentalis is used in traditional medicine to treat a wide range of ailments, including diarrhea, fever, and snake bites. The plant's sap and latex are also used to produce a glue-like substance that is used to trap birds and animals for food.General Appearance
Orbea valida subs. occidentalis is a stemless succulent that grows up to 8 inches (20 cm) tall and spreads up to 1 foot (30 cm) wide. The leaves are small and triangular, up to 0.4 inches (1 cm) long, and are arranged in pairs along the stem. The flowers are star-shaped, up to 3 inches (7.5 cm) wide, and can vary in color from yellow to dark brown. The plant blooms in the summer months, and each flower lasts for several days. It prefers a well-draining soil and bright, indirect light to thrive.Growth Conditions of Orbea valida (N.E.Br.) Bruyns subsp. occidentalis Bruyns
The Orbea valida (N.E.Br.) Bruyns subsp. occidentalis Bruyns is a succulent plant that belongs to the Asclepiadaceae family. It is native to South Africa, where it grows in dry and arid regions. The plant requires specific growth conditions to thrive.
Light
The Orbea valida subsp. occidentalis plant needs bright but indirect sunlight. It should be placed near a window where it can receive light for at least four hours a day. Direct sunlight can damage the leaves and cause the plant to wilt.
Temperature
The Orbea valida subsp. occidentalis plant prefers warm temperatures, ranging from 70 to 85°F (21 to 29°C). It can tolerate temperatures between 50 and 90°F (10 to 32°C), but extreme temperatures should be avoided. The plant is sensitive to frost and cold conditions and should be protected during the winter.
Soil
The Orbea valida subsp. occidentalis plant requires well-drained soil to prevent root rot. A mixture of sand, perlite, and peat moss can provide the ideal growing conditions. The soil should not retain too much water and should be allowed to dry out between watering. The plant is adapted to grow in nutrient-poor soil, so adding fertilizer may not be necessary.
Cultivation Methods
Orbea valida subsp. occidentalis is a succulent plant, and it is a low maintenance plant that can grow both indoors and outdoors. It is often grown in pots, and it requires a well-draining coarse soil mix with sand or perlite. It prefers bright but indirect sunlight and tolerates high temperatures.
Watering Needs
This plant can tolerate drought conditions, and it requires less watering than many other plants. It is important to allow the soil to dry out completely before watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot and eventual death of the plant. The frequency of watering should be reduced during the winter months because of the plant's dormancy period.
Fertilization
Orbea valida subsp. occidentalis does not require frequent fertilization, and it can survive without it altogether. However, a mild succulent fertilizer can be applied once or twice during the growing season to promote its growth. Fertilization should not be applied during the winter months.
Pruning
Pruning is rarely required for Orbea valida subsp. occidentalis because it has slow growth. However, diseased or damaged leaves should be removed immediately to prevent the spread of the disease. The plant can be propagated by stem cuttings taken during the growing season.
Propagation of Orbea valida (N.E.Br.) Bruyns subsp. occidentalis Bruyns
Orbea valida (N.E.Br.) Bruyns subsp. occidentalis Bruyns can be propagated through various methods, including stem cuttings, seed propagation, and division. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages depending on the goals of the gardener.
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings are a popular method of propagating Orbea valida (N.E.Br.) Bruyns subsp. occidentalis Bruyns. The cuttings should be taken during the growing season, in spring or summer, and should be at least 7cm long. It is recommended to use a sharp, clean pair of scissors or shears to avoid infections. Once the cutting has been taken, it should be allowed to dry for a couple of days before planting.
The cuttings can be planted directly into well-draining potting mix, so that at least one-third of the stem is buried beneath the surface. They should be watered sparingly until new growth appears, indicating that the cutting has taken root.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is another method of propagating Orbea valida (N.E.Br.) Bruyns subsp. occidentalis Bruyns. Collect seed pods once they have turned brown, dry and split open. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining potting mix, with a light dusting of soil over the seeds.
The pot should be kept in a warm, brightly lit spot, with the soil kept barely moist to encourage germination. Once seedlings have appeared, they can be transplanted into individual pots using standard potting mix.
Division
Division is a method of propagation that involves separating the plant into two or more parts. Orbea valida (N.E.Br.) Bruyns subsp. occidentalis Bruyns is clump-forming, so it can be divided into smaller sections. It is best to divide the plant in spring, when new growth appears.
To divide the plant, gently pull apart the roots and separate the smaller sections. Each section should have some roots attached and be the size of a reasonable plant to successfully establish. The sections can be planted in well-draining potting mix and cared for as normal.
Disease Management
One of the common diseases that might affect Orbea valida subsp. occidentalis is fungal leaf spot. This disease appears as small spots on the leaves, which can merge to form larger spots. To manage this disease, it is recommended to practice good sanitation by removing infected leaves and avoiding overhead watering. Additionally, fungicides can be applied according to their recommended label rates.
Another disease that can affect this plant is root rot, which is often caused by overwatering or poor drainage. To manage this disease, it is important to make sure that the soil is well-draining. If the plant is already infected, it may be necessary to prune back any affected roots and replant the remaining healthy portion of the plant in new soil.
Pest Management
One of the common pests that might affect Orbea valida subsp. occidentalis is mealybugs. These insects appear as fluffy white masses on the stems or leaves of the plant. To manage mealybugs, it is recommended to remove the insects manually using a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Additionally, systemic insecticides can be used to control the infestation and prevent future outbreaks.
Another pest that can affect this plant is spider mites. These tiny insects can cause discoloration and necrosis on the leaves of the plant. To manage spider mites, it is recommended to spray the plant with a fine mist of water to remove the insects from the leaves. Additionally, insecticidal sprays can be applied to help control the infestation.
