Plant Description:
Othonna cyclophylla Merxm. is a succulent plant species that belongs to the Asteraceae family. This perennial plant has a trailing habit and can grow up to 7 cm in height. Its leaves are fleshy, blue-grey, and roughly circular. The stem is thin and wiry, with small yellow flowers that bloom in late winter and early spring.
Origin:
The Othonna cyclophylla Merxm. is native to southern Africa, specifically the regions of South Africa and Namibia. It grows in rocky areas with well-draining soil and full sun exposure.
Common Names:
The plant is commonly known as "Ruby Necklace," "String of Rubies," or "Little Pickles."
Uses:
The Othonna cyclophylla Merxm. is a popular indoor plant due to its trailing habit and attractive, ruby-colored leaves. It is low maintenance and can be grown in small hanging baskets, terrariums, or as a groundcover in outdoor rock gardens. The plant is not typically used for medicinal or culinary purposes.
Light requirement
Othonna cyclophylla thrives well under bright, indirect sunlight. The plant can tolerate direct sunlight, but this may cause sunburn on the leaves, leading to leaf drop or scorching. Therefore, it is essential to provide sufficient light to facilitate healthy growth and development. The plant also requires at least six hours of sunlight daily to stimulate photosynthesis, which is necessary for food production.
Temperature requirement
The plant prefers warm temperatures, typically between 16°C and 27°C. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°C, but extended exposure to cold temperatures can harm the plant, leading to stunted growth or death. Therefore, it is crucial to keep Othonna cyclophylla away from cold drafts or extreme temperature fluctuations.
Soil requirement
Othonna cyclophylla requires well-draining soil that retains enough moisture to keep the plant hydrated. A fertile potting mix enriched with organic matter is ideal for planting this succulent. Furthermore, the soil pH should range from slightly acidic to neutral, typically between 6.5 and 7.5. When planting, ensure that the pot has a drainage hole to prevent waterlogging, which can cause root rot and eventually kill the plant.
Cultivation Methods for Othonna cyclophylla Merxm.
Othonna cyclophylla Merxm. is a South African succulent plant that grows well in warm and dry climates. The plant requires full sun to thrive and needs to be planted in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter and sand. It is also essential to ensure that the soil pH is between 6.0 and 7.0.
The plant can be propagated from stem or leaf cuttings, and the ideal time to do this is during the spring season. The cuttings should be left to dry for a few days before planting, and they must be planted in a sandy soil mixture and kept lightly moist until they start growing.
Watering Needs for Othonna cyclophylla Merxm.
Othonna cyclophylla Merxm. is a drought-tolerant plant that requires minimal watering. Overwatering the plant can lead to root rot, which is why it is essential to water the plant sparingly. The plant should only be watered when the soil is completely dry, and it is ideal to water it deeply once a month.
During the winter season, the plant enters a period of dormancy, and watering should be reduced to once every three to four weeks. It is also recommended to avoid getting water on the leaves as this can cause them to rot.
Fertilization for Othonna cyclophylla Merxm.
Othonna cyclophylla Merxm. does not require frequent fertilization. However, it can benefit from occasional fertilization during the growing season, which is from spring to fall. The ideal fertilizer for this plant is a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength.
The plant should be fertilized once a month during the growing season, and it is essential to avoid overfertilizing as this can cause the plant to become leggy and weak.
Pruning for Othonna cyclophylla Merxm.
Othonna cyclophylla Merxm. does not require frequent pruning. However, it can benefit from occasional pruning to maintain its shape and control its growth. The plant can be pruned during the growing season by cutting back the stem tips to encourage branching.
It is also recommended to remove any dead or damaged leaves or stems to keep the plant healthy and prevent diseases. When pruning the plant, it is essential to use sharp and clean pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant.
Propagation of Othonna cyclophylla Merxm.
Othonna cyclophylla Merxm., commonly known as Ruby Necklace, is a beautiful, succulent plant from the Asteraceae family. It is native to the Cape Province of South Africa and is a popular houseplant because of its ease of care and aesthetic appeal. Propagation of this plant can be done through various methods, including:
Division
Dividing the plant into smaller sections is a good way to propagate it. Carefully remove the plant from its container and separate the rooted sections, ensuring each section has a healthy root system and at least one growing point. Replant the sections in fresh soil and water thoroughly.
Cuttings
Cuttings can be taken from healthy shoots of the plant. Cut a 3-4 inch (8-10 cm) stem and remove its lower leaves. Leave the cutting in a dry, shaded place for about a week for the cut end to callus over. Once callused, plant the cutting into a well-draining soil mixture and water it until established.
Seeds
The seeds of the Ruby Necklace should be planted in moist, well-draining soil. Sow the seeds at a depth of 1/8 inch (3mm) and cover them with a thin layer of the soil mixture. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a bright location, but out of direct sunlight. Germination takes about two weeks, and seedlings can be transplanted into their permanent container when they are large enough to handle.
Othonna cyclophylla Merxm. is a fast-growing plant that can easily be propagated through the above methods. With proper care, the new plants will establish quickly and eventually produce attractive clusters of small yellow flowers.
Disease and Pest Management for Othonna cyclophylla Merxm.
Othonna cyclophylla Merxm. is a low-growing, succulent plant that is susceptible to various pests and diseases. Proper management of these pests and diseases is essential to ensure the plant's healthy growth and blooming. Here are some of the common pests and diseases affecting Othonna cyclophylla Merxm. and their management.
Pests
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny, sap-sucking pests that can cause significant damage to the Othonna cyclophylla Merxm. plant. They pierce the leaves and stems, causing them to turn yellow and eventually die. A heavy infestation can cause complete defoliation of the plant.
Management: To manage spider mites, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Regularly spraying the plant with water can also help keep spider mites at bay. You can also isolate the affected plant to prevent the mites from spreading to other plants.
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are another common pest that affects Othonna cyclophylla Merxm. The bugs secrete a wax-like substance on the plant, causing leaves to yellow and plants to wilt. They also spread viral and bacterial diseases.
Management: To manage mealybugs, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Regularly inspecting the plant for signs of infestation is also essential. Isolating the affected plant can prevent the mealybugs from spreading to other plants.
Diseases
Root Rot: Root rot is a common disease that infects Othonna cyclophylla Merxm. plants. It is caused by overwatering, soil-borne pathogens, and poor drainage. Symptoms of root rot include yellow leaves, drooping stems, and decaying roots.
Management: To manage root rot, you can reduce watering frequency and improve drainage. You can also cut off the affected roots and repot the plant in fresh soil. Applying a fungicide can also help prevent the spread of the disease.
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects many plants, including Othonna cyclophylla Merxm. It appears as a white, powdery substance on the leaves, stems, and flowers. The disease spreads rapidly, causing the plant to weaken and lose vigour.
Management: To manage powdery mildew, you can remove the affected parts of the plant and dispose of them. You can also use a fungicidal spray or apply sulphur to control the disease's spread. Improving air circulation and reducing humidity levels can also prevent the spread of the disease.
By following the above pest and disease management practices, you can ensure that your Othonna cyclophylla Merxm. plant remains healthy, strong and blooms beautifully.
