Origin of Saurolluma furta (P.R.O.Bally) Plowes
Saurolluma furta is a plant species belonging to the family Apocynaceae. It is endemic to Madagascar which means that the plant is only found on the island and nowhere else in the world.
Common names of Saurolluma furta
The plant is commonly known as 'Saurolluma', 'Palmis', 'Chavannes', 'Kombo Samy', and 'Clou de Bordeaux' among other names. These names vary based on the regions where the plant is found.
Uses of Saurolluma furta
Saurolluma furta has several medicinal properties and has been used by the locals for years to treat various ailments. The plant is believed to possess anti-inflammatory properties and is used in the treatment of diabetes, fever, and arthritis. The latex from the stem is applied on the body to treat rheumatism and the roots and leaves are used to treat diarrhea, stomach pain, and wounds. The plant also has potential in the cosmetic industry as it is used in the production of soap and shampoo.
General appearance of Saurolluma furta
Saurolluma furta is a succulent plant that grows up to 1m tall. The plant has thick, fleshy stems that are green in color with white striations. The leaves are small and grow in clusters around the stem, they are also fleshy and have a bluish-green color. The plant produces small, white flowers that grow in clusters at the end of the stems. The fruits are small capsules that contain numerous seeds.
Light Requirements
Saurolluma furta prefers full sunlight exposure for the majority of the day. When grown indoors, it is best to place the plant near a south-facing window with plenty of direct sunlight. In outdoor settings, it is ideal to plant the species in areas with plenty of sunlight and minimal shade.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is suited for warm and dry climates. Saurolluma furta thrives in temperatures ranging from 20 to 40 degrees Celsius. During the winter months, it is best to keep them in warmer climates to avoid cold damage. In regions where temperatures fall below freezing, the plant may struggle to survive and, in some cases, may die.
Soil Requirements
Well-draining soil is required for the growth of Saurolluma furta. Sandy soil mixtures with low fertility levels and a pH range between 7-8 are ideal. The plant is drought resistant and does not tolerate waterlogged soils. In areas with high rainfall levels, it is vital to plant the species in raised beds or in pots with well-draining soil to prevent root rot.
Cultivation
Saurolluma furta, also known as the 'Stapeliad,' is a succulent plant species that is unique in its morphology and appearance. It requires well-draining soil and thrives in full sunlight, with a minimum temperature of 60°F.
The plant can be propagated through seeds, cuttings, and stem slicing. It is important to allow the cuttings and sliced stems to dry for a couple of days before planting to prevent fungus and bacterial infections in the new plant.
Watering needs
During the growing season of spring and summer, water the plant when the soil has dried out completely. Watering should be reduced during the dormant period of fall and winter. This is because excessive water can cause root rot, which may lead to plant death.
It is essential to avoid getting water on the leaves, stems, and flowers as this may lead to spots, discoloration, and eventual death of these parts.
Fertilization
When fertilizing the Saurolluma furta, it is important to use a fertilization mix that is low in nitrogen and high in phosphorus and potassium. A balanced blend of organic and mineral fertilizers is ideal, and it should be applied during the growing season, about once every four to six weeks. Over-fertilization should be avoided as it may cause the plant to grow weakly and become more susceptible to diseases.
Pruning
The Saurolluma furta does not require a lot of pruning, but it may be necessary to tidy up the plant occasionally. Deadheading can be done by pinching off spent blooms along with the stem, while removing any dead or blackened stems will prevent the spread of diseases. It is advisable to use sterilized gardening tools to avoid introducing infections to the plant during pruning.
Propagation of Saurolluma furta (P.R.O.Bally) Plowes
Saurolluma furta (P.R.O.Bally) Plowes is a succulent plant that belongs to the family Apocynaceae. It is a perennial with a bushy habit, and it produces tubular flowers that are pinkish-red in color. This plant is native to the arid regions of East Africa and can be propagated by several methods.
Seeds
The propagation of Saurolluma furta (P.R.O.Bally) Plowes through seeds is a viable method, especially if you have access to fresh and viable seeds. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining mixture that contains equal parts of soil, perlite and sand. The container should be placed in a warm and bright location, and the soil should be kept moist. Germination usually takes between two to three weeks.
Stem Cuttings
Propagating Saurolluma furta (P.R.O.Bally) Plowes through stem cuttings is another viable method, especially if you want to create multiple plants from a single specimen. Take a cutting from the plant's stem that is about four to six inches long, making sure it has at least two nodes. Remove the lower leaves and allow the cutting to dry for a day before planting it in a well-draining mixture. Keep the soil moist and the cutting in a warm and bright location. It should take between three to four weeks for the cutting to root.
Offsets
Saurolluma furta (P.R.O.Bally) Plowes produces offsets that grow at the base of the plant. These can be separated from the mother plant and replanted to produce new specimens. Carefully remove the offsets from the mother plant and replant them in a well-draining mixture. The container should be placed in a warm and bright location, and the soil should be kept moist. The offset should take between two to three weeks to establish roots.
Disease and Pest Management for Saurolluma furta (P.R.O.Bally) Plowes
Saurolluma furta (P.R.O.Bally) Plowes is a succulent shrub that is native to Madagascar. Like any plant, it is susceptible to certain diseases and pests that can affect its growth and appearance. Here are some common diseases and pests that can affect Saurolluma furta and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Root rot: Root rot is a common fungal disease that affects plants grown in poorly drained soil. It is caused by soil-borne fungi that attack the plant's roots, preventing them from absorbing water and nutrients. To manage this disease, make sure the plant is grown in well-draining soil, and avoid over-watering. If you notice any signs of root rot, such as brown, mushy roots, remove the affected plant parts and treat the soil with a fungicide.
Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes brown, black, or gray spots on the leaves of the plant. To manage this disease, remove any infected leaves and dispose of them far away from the plant, as the fungus can spread easily. You can also apply a fungicide to the remaining leaves to prevent further infection.
Pests
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, white insects that feed on plant sap, causing stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. To manage this pest, you can physically remove the insects from the plant using a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol, or by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap.
Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny, red insects that spin webs on the leaves of the plant and feed on the sap. They can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. To manage this pest, you can spray the plant with a strong jet of water, or apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to the leaves.
Regularly inspecting your Saurolluma furta plant and taking prompt action at the first sign of disease or pests is the key to avoiding infestations and ensuring the plant remains healthy and beautiful.
