Origin
Protea welwitschii Engl. subsp. melliodora (Engl. & Gilg) Beard, commonly known as Melliodora Protea, is a flowering plant species belonging to the Proteaceae family and is native to Angola and Namibia.
Common names
In addition to Melliodora Protea, this plant is also referred to by other common names such as Welwitsch's protea and Candelabra protea.
Uses
Melliodora Protea is primarily grown as an ornamental plant. Its unique appearance, with large candelabra-like flowerheads surrounded by bracts, makes it a favorite of florists for use in cut flower arrangements or as a garden plant. It is also commonly used in horticultural shows and exhibits as a showcase plant.
General appearance
This plant can grow up to 4 meters tall and has thick stems with large, green, leathery leaves. The flowerheads are composed of numerous small individual flowers surrounded by large pink or dark red bracts that provide a stunning contrast. They appear in late winter to early spring depending on the climate and can persist for several months, making for a long-lasting display.
Light Requirements
Protea welwitschii Engl. subsp. melliodora requires full sunlight to thrive. It is a sun-loving plant that can handle direct sunlight for several hours a day. Without adequate sunlight, the plant may struggle to bloom and grow. Therefore, it is best to plant or keep the plant in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature Requirements
The Protea welwitschii Engl. subsp. melliodora plant is native to high altitude regions where temperatures can vary between 5-25°C (41-77°F). Therefore, the plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, some sources suggest it can survive down to -5°C (23°F). However, for optimal growth, it is recommended to keep the plant within the range of 15-25°C (59-77°F).
Soil Requirements
The Protea welwitschii Engl. subsp. melliodora plant requires well-draining soil. The plant does not tolerate wet soil, which can cause root rot and lead to plant death. Therefore, it is necessary to ensure good drainage, either through natural draining or by adding course sand or rocks to the soil. The pH range of the soil should be between 5.5-7.0, slightly acidic to neutral. Additionally, the soil should be rich in organic matter.
Cultivation methods for Protea welwitschii Engl. subsp. melliodora
Protea welwitschii Engl. subsp. melliodora is a hardy plant that thrives in a variety of growing conditions. It can be successfully grown in either pots or directly in the ground. To ensure good plant growth and development, select a site with well-draining soil and good air circulation.
The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate a light frost. Young plants require protection from harsh weather and extreme fluctuations in temperature.
Sow seeds in well-draining soil and keep moist until germination. It is best to sow seeds in late winter or early spring. Seedlings can be transplanted to their final location once they are well-established.
Watering needs for Protea welwitschii Engl. subsp. melliodora
Protea welwitschii Engl. subsp. melliodora requires well-draining soil and moderate watering. The plant is adapted to drought conditions and requires only occasional watering once established. During the growing season, water the plant every 2-3 weeks, depending on weather conditions.
Avoid over-watering as it can lead to root rot and other problems. It is essential to allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. In winter, reduce watering to a minimum to prevent the plant from becoming water-logged.
Fertilization for Protea welwitschii Engl. subsp. melliodora
Protea welwitschii Engl. subsp. melliodora requires minimal fertilization, and it is usually unnecessary to add fertilizer unless soil nutrient levels are low.
If fertilization is needed, use a slow-release fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply fertilizer in early spring before new growth appears. Avoid fertilizing during the winter months.
Pruning for Protea welwitschii Engl. subsp. melliodora
Protea welwitschii Engl. subsp. melliodora requires minimal pruning and shaping. Pruning should only be done to remove damaged or dead branches, as the plant naturally grows in an attractive, symmetrical form.
Prune the plant after flowering in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Use clean, sharp pruning shears and make cuts just above a leaf node. Avoid pruning during the dormant winter months.
Propagation of Protea welwitschii Engl. subsp. melliodora
Protea welwitschii Engl. subsp. melliodora is usually propagated by seeds, cuttings, and grafting.
Propagation by Seed
Seeds can be sown in pots filled with a well-draining medium that consists of equal parts of sand, peat, and vermiculite. Before sowing, the seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours to remove any inhibitors on the seed coat that may prevent germination. The pots can then be kept in a warm place with bright, indirect light. Germination may take up to three months, and once the seedlings have grown to a size suitable for the particular growing conditions, they can be transplanted to larger containers or directly into the ground.
Propagation by Cuttings
Cuttings can be taken from semi-hardwood or hardwood stems of the plant. The cuttings should be taken from the current season's growth, and they should be approximately 10-15cm long. It is advisable to take several cuttings to increase the chances of success. The cuttings should be treated with rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining mixture of sand and peat in a shaded area. The cuttings should be kept moist, and rooting should occur within six weeks.
Propagation by Grafting
Protea welwitschii Engl. subsp. melliodora can be propagated by grafting onto a rootstock of a related species. It is often used to maintain desirable characteristics of a particular cultivar. The method involves cutting a scion from the desired plant and attaching it to the rootstock of the related species. The two parts are held together with grafting tape or a grafting clip to ensure a good fit. The grafted plant should be kept in a warm, humid environment until the graft is successful and new growth appears.
Disease Management
Protea welwitschii Engl. subsp. melliodora is susceptible to various diseases that affect its root, stem, leaves, and flowers. Here are some of the common diseases of the plant:
- Root rot: Caused by Phytophthora cinnamomi, a soil-borne fungus that attacks the roots of the plant, causing them to rot. To manage root rot, ensure the soil is well-drained, avoid over-watering the plant, and apply fungicides to the surrounding soil.
- Leaf spot: Caused by various fungal pathogens that attack the leaves of the plant, causing circular spots that can merge to form irregular shapes. To manage leaf spot, practice good sanitation, avoid overhead watering, and apply fungicides to the plant.
- Botrytis blight: Caused by Botrytis cinerea, this fungal disease affects the flowers of the plant, causing them to appear brown and mushy. To manage botrytis blight, prune affected flowers, practice good sanitation, and apply fungicides to the plant.
Pest Management
Protea welwitschii Engl. subsp. melliodora is also susceptible to various pest infestations. Here are some common pests of the plant:
- Scale insects: These pests attach to the stems and leaves of the plant, feeding on the sap and causing the plant to weaken. To manage scale insects, prune affected parts of the plant, use sticky traps, and apply insecticidal soap.
- Spider mites: These pests feed on the leaves of the plant, causing them to appear yellow and stippled. To manage spider mites, increase humidity around the plant, prune affected leaves, and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Thrips: These pests feed on the flowers of the plant, causing them to appear deformed and discolored. To manage thrips, prune affected flowers, use sticky traps, and apply insecticidal soap.
It is advisable to regularly inspect the plant for any signs of these diseases and pests and take prompt action to manage them. It is also important to practice good sanitation, avoid overcrowding the plant, and provide optimal growing conditions to keep the plant healthy and resistant to diseases and pests.
