Overview - Spatalla cylindrica E.Phillips
Spatalla cylindrica E.Phillips, also known as the football plant, is a succulent plant native to South Africa. It belongs to the Crassulaceae family, which has over 1,400 species of plants, many of which are succulents. The plant is known for its unique cylindrical shape with a flattened top, which resembles a football.
Appearance
The Spatalla cylindrica E.Phillips has a cylindrical stem that can grow up to 30 centimeters long and 6 centimeters wide. The stem is usually green, but it can turn reddish-brown in full sun. The plant has a flattened top with a small depression in the center, which can hold water. The leaves are small and grow in pairs of two, which alternate along the stem. The leaves are triangular, about 0.5 centimeters long and 0.3 centimeters wide. The plant produces small flowers, which are white or pink and bloom during the summer months.
Common names
The Spatalla cylindrica E.Phillips is commonly known as the football plant. It is also referred to as the pencil plant due to its cylindrical shape.
Uses
The Spatalla cylindrica E.Phillips is primarily grown as an ornamental plant. It is often used in rock gardens, container gardens or as a ground cover. The plant is easy to care for and can survive in a variety of conditions, making it a popular choice among gardeners. The plant is also known for its air-purifying qualities, making it a great addition to any indoor space. Moreover, it is tolerant of drought and requires little watering.
Light Requirements
Spatalla cylindrica E.Phillips is a tropical plant that thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. Direct exposure to sunlight can damage its leaves, so it is best to place this plant in a location where it can receive bright but filtered light throughout the day. East or west-facing windows and shaded outdoor areas can provide the ideal light conditions for this plant.
Temperature Requirements
Spatalla cylindrica E.Phillips is a warm-loving plant and requires a warm and humid environment to thrive. The ideal temperature for this plant is between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). Avoid exposing the plant to extreme temperature fluctuations or cold drafts, as this can cause stress and damage the leaves.
Soil Requirements
Spatalla cylindrica E.Phillips prefers a well-draining and nutrient-rich soil. A combination of peat moss, perlite, and sand can provide the ideal soil mixture for this plant. It also requires a slightly acidic soil with a pH range between 5.5 to 6.5 for optimal growth. It is essential to avoid overwatering the plant, as this can lead to root rot.
Cultivation
Spatalla cylindrica is a tropical plant that prefers a warm and humid environment. It thrives in full to partial shade, making it ideal for indoor cultivation. The plant needs well-draining soil that's rich in organic matter to grow well.
Watering needs
Regular watering is essential to keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause root rot and lead to the death of the plant.
Fertilization
Feed the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Dilute the fertilizer to half strength to avoid burning the plant. Do not fertilize during the winter months.
Pruning
Prune the plant in late winter or early spring to control its size and promote bushier growth. Cut back any leggy or straggly stems to a leaf node or bud to encourage new growth. You can also pinch off the top of the plant to encourage branching.
Propagation of Spatalla cylindrica E.Phillips
Spatalla cylindrica E.Phillips, also known as the African cabbage plant, is a species of flowering plant in the family Araceae. It is native to tropical regions of Africa and can be propagated by different methods.
Division
Division is the most common propagation method for Spatalla cylindrica. The plant can be divided into smaller sections after it has matured and grown to a large size. To do this, gently remove the plant from its container and separate the roots and stems into several smaller sections. Each section should have a few stems and a healthy root system. Then, replant each section in a new pot with fresh soil mix and water thoroughly.
Cuttings
Another propagation method for Spatalla cylindrica is through stem cuttings. The cuttings should be taken from mature plants, and each cutting should be at least four inches long. Dip the cut ends in rooting hormone to promote root growth and plant the cuttings in a well-draining soil mix. Cover the pot with a plastic bag to create a humid environment, and place it in bright, indirect light until roots have formed.
Seed Propagation
Spatalla cylindrica can also be propagated by seeds, but it is a more challenging method. The seeds should be soaked in warm water for several hours or overnight to soften the seed coat and improve germination. Then, sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mix and keep them moist. Cover the pot with a plastic bag or a propagation tray to create a humid environment and place it in bright, indirect light. Germination may take several weeks to occur, and the seedlings should be transplanted into individual pots once they are large enough to handle.
Overall, Spatalla cylindrica can be propagated by division, stem cuttings, or seed propagation. Each method has its benefits and challenges, but with proper care and attention, this plant can be propagated successfully.
Disease and Pest Management of Spatalla cylindrica E.Phillips
Spatalla cylindrica E.Phillips, also known as the Natal wild-plum, is a slow-growing, drought-resistant, and multi-stemmed shrub. While it is generally a hardy plant, it is susceptible to some diseases and pests. Effective disease and pest management are vital to keep the plant healthy and thriving.
Common Diseases
Anthracnose: This fungal disease is common in humid and wet conditions. Symptoms include the formation of small, circular, sunken areas on leaves and stems. To manage anthracnose, remove and destroy all infected plant parts, and practice good sanitation to prevent its spread. Fungicides can be used to prevent and control its spread.
Mildew: This fungal disease is characterized by a whitish-gray powdery coating on the surface of the leaves. To control mildew, maintain proper air circulation around the plant, practice good sanitation, and use fungicides. Neem oil can also provide an effective and natural solution to mildew.
Root Rot: This disease is caused by a soil-borne fungus, and its symptoms include yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and the collapse of the entire plant. To prevent root rot, ensure proper drainage of the soil, avoid over-watering the plant, and practice good sanitation.
Common Pests
Aphids: These small insects feed on the plant's sap and can cause the leaves to curl and distort. Natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings can be introduced to control aphid infestations. Alternatively, chemical insecticides can also be used.
Scale Insects: Scale insects, such as the soft brown scale, attach themselves to the leaves and stems of Spatalla cylindrica, sucking its sap and causing stunted growth. To manage scale insects, remove the affected plant parts, and introduce natural predators. Horticultural oils and insecticides can also be applied to control their spread.
Spider Mites: These tiny pests are common in hot and dry conditions and can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. To control spider mites, introduce natural predators, like ladybugs and predatory mites, and maintain proper humidity around the plant.
Effective disease and pest management for Spatalla cylindrica E.Phillips involves maintaining proper plant care, regular monitoring, and using integrated pest management strategies. Prevention is key to ensure the plant's health and a thriving garden.
