Origin
Schizobasis cuscutoides (Burch. ex Baker) Benth. & Hook. is a plant species native to southern Africa, and it is primarily found in Namibia, Botswana, and South Africa.
Common Names
Schizobasis cuscutoides is commonly known as false dodder or Namibian dodder, due to its propensity for parasitising other plants in a similar way to the dodder plant family.
Appearance
Schizobasis cuscutoides belongs to the family of Asphodelaceae, and it appears as a succulent herb that blossoms from a tuberous root. It can grow up to 35 cm tall; however, many plants stay much smaller, particularly when kept as a houseplant. The leaves of Schizobasis cuscutoides are shiny greenish-grey above and matte brownish-grey beneath, and its flowers come in greenish-white to pinkish-red colour.
Uses
Schizobasis cuscutoides is well known for its medicinal value. The tubers of this plant are used in traditional medicine to treat a wide variety of ailments, including coughs, chest pains, fever, and headache. In addition, the plant is sometimes eaten as a vegetable by the local communities in Namibia and Botswana. False dodder is also a popular houseplant due to its striking, succulent appearance.
Light Requirements
Schizobasis cuscutoides prefers bright light, and it thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions. In its native habitat, it grows well in open or slightly shaded areas.
Temperature Range
The ideal temperature range for Schizobasis cuscutoides growth is 18 to 25 °C, but it can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It can withstand maximum temperatures of up to 40 °C and minimum temperatures of 8 °C without getting damaged. However, prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures can negatively affect the growth of this plant.
Soil Requirements
Schizobasis cuscutoides grows well in well-drained sandy or loamy soils that are slightly acidic or neutral. It prefers fertile soils rich in organic matter, but it can also tolerate nutrient-poor soils. A soil pH range of 5.5 to 7.5 is appropriate for this plant. Avoid planting it in waterlogged or compacted soils as it can stunt its growth and lead to root rot.
Cultivation methods
Schizobasis cuscutoides is a lovely plant that requires full sun to partial shade and grows well in containers or garden beds. It's advisable to plant the bulbs during the early spring, right after the last frost. The bulbs should be planted three times the bulb's size in a well-draining soil mixture, which is an equal combination of sand, perlite, and peat moss.Watering needs
Schizobasis cuscutoides requires plenty of water, and the soil should be moist, but not waterlogged. You should water the plant frequently during its growing season, especially during the dry season. Overwatering leads to root rot, so you should ensure that the soil is well-draining to prevent water accumulation.Fertilization
When it comes to fertilization, Schizobasis cuscutoides needs a complete fertilizer with balanced macro and micronutrients. You can apply a controlled-release fertilizer once every three months or use a liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. The plant requires a light feeding, so avoid overfeeding, which can lead to burnt leaves.Pruning
Schizobasis cuscutoides doesn't require frequent pruning, but you should remove any yellow or dead leaves. You can also cut back the foliage after the plant goes dormant in the winter to promote fresh growth during the growing season. Pruning will help maintain the plant's shape and keep it looking neat and healthy. It's advisable to use sterile pruning tools to prevent the spread of pests and diseases.By following the above cultivation methods, watering needs, fertilization, and pruning tips, you can keep your Schizobasis cuscutoides plant healthy and thriving for years to come.
Propagation of Schizobasis cuscutoides
Schizobasis cuscutoides (Burch. ex Baker) Benth. & Hook. can be propagated using different methods, including seed propagation and vegetative propagation techniques.
Seed Propagation
The plant produces small seeds that can be collected from mature fruit pods. Once collected, the seeds can be cleaned, dried, and stored in a cool, dry place until planting time. To improve germination, the seeds can be soaked in warm water for 24 hours before planting. The seeds should be planted in a well-draining potting mix in a warm, bright location. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Germination can take up to six weeks.
Vegetative Propagation
Schizobasis cuscutoides can also be propagated vegetatively through division or stem cuttings. Division involves separating the rhizome or bulb of the plant into small sections, each with its own roots and shoots. The sections can then be planted in separate pots or directly into the ground. Stem cuttings involve taking a healthy stem from the plant, removing the lower leaves, and planting the cutting in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and the cutting in a warm, bright location until it develops roots and new growth.
Disease Management
Schizobasis cuscutoides is generally a hardy plant, but it can still fall prey to diseases that can affect its growth and production. Some common diseases that can affect this plant species include:
Root Rot
Root rot can be caused by several factors like overwatering, soil that doesn't drain well, fungal and bacterial infections, and soil-borne pathogens. Symptoms of root rot include yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and a general decline in the plant's health. To manage root rot, one should use well-draining soil and avoid overwatering. Additionally, avoid overcrowding roots and remove any plants already afflicted with the disease.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew can affect the leaves of the Schizobasis cuscutoides plant. This disease is caused by fungal infections that produce white, powdery growth on leaves. It can stunt the plant's growth, reduce its yields, and affect its overall vigour. To manage powdery mildew, it's important to maintain proper air circulation by ensuring the plants aren't too closely spaced. Use of Safel neem oil spray or sulphur spray can assist in managing the disease.
Pest Management
Schizobasis cuscutoides can also fall prey to pest invasions that can reduce its yields. Some common pests that can affect this plant include:
Thrips
Thrips feed on the leaves of Schizobasis cuscutoides, and this can make the plant's leaves appear discoloured and speckled. Persistent infestations can also cause stunted growth. To control thrips, one can use neem oil or any pyrethrum-based insecticides that are safe for humans. Alternatively, one can introduce predatory mites to feed on the thrips.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny species of arachnids that feed on the underside of leaves. Infestation can result in webbing between the leaves and cause defoliation. To manage a spider mite infestation, spray the undersides of the plants leaves with neem oil spray, insecticidal soap, or preferably apply diatomaceous earth directly to plant before watering.
Aphids
Aphids suck the sap out of the plant, causing the leaves to curl and fall off the plant. To manage aphids, spray the plants with neem oil or insecticidal soap and/or release parasitic wasps that feed on aphids.
