Sarcostemma viminale (L.) R.Br. subsp. orangeanum Liede & Meve
Sarcostemma viminale (L.) R.Br. subsp. orangeanum Liede & Meve is a perennial succulent plant that is native to Eastern and Southern Africa. The plant also grows extensively in Madagascar and the Arabian Peninsula. This plant belongs to the family Apocynaceae, which includes many other well-known succulent species like Adenium and Stapelia.
Common Names
The plant is commonly referred to as Orange Milkweed, Orange Sarcostemma, and Wild Wisteria.
Uses
Traditionally, many indigenous communities in Africa have used this plant as a source of medicine. The plant contains alkaloids which have been used to treat various ailments, including constipation, stomach pain, and fever. The stem and branches of the plant are also used for basket weaving due to their flexibility and durability.
General Appearance
Sarcostemma viminale (L.) R.Br. subsp. orangeanum Liede & Meve is a climbing succulent that can grow up to 5 meters in length. It has thin, woody stems that are light green in color with white spots. The leaves are small and fleshy, and they grow opposite to each other along the stem. The plant blooms in late summer, producing clusters of small, highly aromatic, orange flowers, and the fruit is a long, slender seed pod that contains numerous seeds. The plant is well-suited to an arid climate and can thrive in conditions with limited water supply, making it an excellent species for xeriscaping and landscaping in dry regions.
Growth Conditions for Sarcostemma viminale (L.) R.Br. subsp. orangeanum Liede & Meve
Light Requirements: Sarcostemma viminale (L.) R.Br. subsp. orangeanum Liede & Meve prefers full sunlight for optimal growth. The plants grow well when exposed to at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. Shadow for prolonged hours can cause stunted growth, leading to the plant's eventual death.
Temperature Requirements: Sarcostemma viminale (L.) R.Br. subsp. orangeanum Liede & Meve thrives in warm to hot climates, with an ideal temperature range of 20°C - 35°C. The plant requires a minimum temperature of 15°C to grow; however, temperatures below 10°C can be lethal to the plant.
Soil Requirements: Sarcostemma viminale (L.) R.Br. subsp. orangeanum Liede & Meve grows well in a well-draining and slightly moist soil medium. The plant is adaptable to a range of soil types, including sandy loam, gravelly, and clay soils. However, the soil medium should be rich in organic matter, and the pH level should be between 6.5 - 7.5 for optimal growth.
Cultivation Methods
Sarcostemma viminale (L.) R.Br. subsp. orangeanum Liede & Meve is a drought-tolerant succulent plant that is easy to grow and maintain. This plant can be grown outdoors in warm climates or indoors if provided with enough sunlight and warmth.
When planting this species, choose a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter. It is recommended to plant the cutting in a pot or growing container that has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
The recommended temperature for this plant is above 50°F (10°C), and it can tolerate full sun, partial shade, or shade.
Watering Needs
The watering needs of Sarcostemma viminale (L.) R.Br. subsp. orangeanum Liede & Meve are moderate. It is important to allow the soil to dry out between watering to avoid overwatering and root rot. This plant is drought-tolerant and can survive long periods of drought, but it will benefit from regular watering during the growing season.
In general, watering should be reduced during winter when the plant becomes dormant.
Fertilization
Sarcostemma viminale (L.) R.Br. subsp. orangeanum Liede & Meve does not require much fertilization, but an occasional dose of balanced fertilizer during the growing period can help stimulate growth and improve plant health.
Fertilization should be done in the spring and summer months, and always follow the manufacturer's instructions. Never apply fertilizer to dry soil, always water the soil first before applying fertilizers.
Pruning
Pruning Sarcostemma viminale (L.) R.Br. subsp. orangeanum Liede & Meve is not necessary, but it can be done to shape or control the size of the plant. This plant can grow up to 6 feet (1.8 m) tall, and if it becomes too large for its location, it can be trimmed back.
When pruning, always use a sharp and clean pair of pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant. Prune in the early spring before new growth appears, and remove any dead or diseased parts of the plant.
Propagation of Sarcostemma viminale (L.) R.Br. subsp. orangeanum Liede & Meve
Sarcostemma viminale (L.) R.Br. subsp. orangeanum Liede & Meve is usually propagated through seeds or stem cuttings. The following are the different methods for propagating this plant:
Propagation through seeds
The seeds of Sarcostemma viminale (L.) R.Br. subsp. orangeanum Liede & Meve are small and should be sown in a well-draining mix with peat moss. The ideal time for sowing seeds is in spring or summer. The seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil and kept moist. Germination usually takes place within 2-4 weeks. Once the seedlings have developed their second set of true leaves, they can be transplanted to larger pots.
Propagation through stem cuttings
Stem cuttings can be taken from mature, healthy plants for propagation. The cuttings should be around 5-6 inches long and should be taken in the early summer. The cut end of the stem cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone and then planted in a well-draining potting mix. It is important to keep the soil moist and to cover the container with plastic or a clear plastic bag to maintain humidity. The stem cuttings will usually root within 4-8 weeks. Once roots have developed, the new plants can be transplanted to larger pots.
It is important to note that Sarcostemma viminale (L.) R.Br. subsp. orangeanum Liede & Meve can be toxic if ingested, so caution should be exercised when handling the plant.
Disease Management for Sarcostemma viminale (L.) R.Br. subsp. orangeanum Liede & Meve
Sarcostemma viminale (L.) R.Br. subsp. orangeanum Liede & Meve is generally a hardy plant that is resistant to most diseases. However, it is prone to a few diseases that may affect its overall health and productivity. It is, therefore, important to take proactive measures to manage these diseases and prevent their spread.
One common disease that affects Sarcostemma viminale is fungal leaf spot. The disease is characterized by the formation of small circular patches on the leaves, which may be gray or brown in color. To manage this disease, it is important to remove and destroy any infected leaves and to improve air circulation around the plant to prevent the growth and spread of the fungus.
Another disease that may affect Sarcostemma viminale is bacterial wilt. This disease is caused by a bacterium called Ralstonia solanacearum, and it causes the plant to wilt, turn yellow, and eventually die. To manage this disease, it is important to avoid overwatering the plant, as the bacterium thrives in moist soil. Additionally, infected plants should be immediately removed and destroyed to prevent the spread of the disease.
Pest Management for Sarcostemma viminale (L.) R.Br. subsp. orangeanum Liede & Meve
Sarcostemma viminale is generally a hardy plant that is resistant to most pests. However, it may be susceptible to a few pests that may affect its overall health and productivity. It is, therefore, important to take proactive measures to manage these pests and prevent their spread.
One common pest that may affect Sarcostemma viminale is mealybugs. These small insects feed on the sap of the plant, causing it to wilt and lose its vigor. To manage mealybug infestations, it is important to inspect the plant regularly and remove any visible insects by hand. Additionally, spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil may help to control the infestation.
Another pest that may affect Sarcostemma viminale is spider mites. These tiny pests feed on the sap of the plant, causing the leaves to turn yellow and fall off. To manage spider mite infestations, it is important to keep the plant well watered and to improve air circulation around the plant. Additionally, spraying the plant with a mixture of water and insecticidal soap may help to control the infestation.
