Overview
Stapelia ambigua Masson var. ambigua is a succulent plant species that belongs to the Asclepiadaceae family. It is a herbaceous perennial plant with a deeply branched habit.
Origin
Stapelia ambigua is native to South Africa, where it can be found in the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as 'Carrion Plant' due to its foul scent, resembling that of a decaying animal. Another common name is 'Starfish Flower' due to the star-shaped blooms.
Uses
Stapelia ambigua plants are often grown as ornamentals in gardens and containers. They require minimal care and are drought-resistant, making them great landscaping plants. The foul-smelling flowers also attract flies and other insects that aid in pollination.
Appearance
Stapelia ambigua has deeply branched stems with blunt tips that can reach up to 60cm in height. The stems are covered with small, soft spines and have a purplish-green color. The star-shaped flowers, which are the main attraction, grow at the end of the stems and can be up to 13cm in diameter. They are typically brown or yellow with reddish-brown markings and produce a strong odor that resembles rotting flesh.
Light Requirements
Stapelia ambigua Masson var. ambigua prefers bright but indirect sunlight. It can also thrive in partial shade. However, direct sunlight may harm the plant as it is adapted to grow in the shade of other plants.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers warm temperatures, and it can tolerate temperatures between 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C). It cannot withstand frost and freezing temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Stapelia ambigua Masson var. ambigua grows well in a well-draining, porous soil mixture able to hold some moisture. It is best to use a cactus-specific soil mix or add sand or pumice to the potting mix. It also prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil pH levels (6.5 - 7).
Water Requirements
The plant requires moderate watering - the potting mixture should be allowed to dry before watering again. Overwatering can cause the roots to rot, leading to poor growth or even death. During the winter, watering should be limited.
Fertilizer Requirements
Stapelia ambigua Masson var. ambigua does not require a lot of fertilizer. Use a diluted, balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) once every two weeks during the summer growing season. During the winter, reduce fertigation to minimal levels.
Cultivation Methods
Stapelia ambigua Masson var. ambigua is a succulent plant that requires warm temperatures, ample sunlight, and well-draining soil. When planting it, ensure that you use a well-draining potting mix that is rich in nutrients, as this will encourage healthy growth.
Also, keep the plant in an area with enough sunlight. In case you're growing it indoors, place it in a south-facing location to receive the maximum amount of sunlight possible.
It's important to note that Stapelia ambigua Masson var. ambigua prefers temperatures that range between 70°F and 80°F. Hence, ensure that you do not expose it to temperatures lower than 50°F.
Watering Needs
This plant requires minimal watering. Water it only when the soil is completely dry, as overwatering can lead to root rot and kill the plant.
During the growing season, water it once a week and reduce watering to once every two weeks during winter.
If you're not sure if the plant needs water, test the soil's moisture level by sticking your finger into the soil up to two inches. If the soil feels completely dry, it's time to water the plant.
Fertilization
Stapelia ambigua Masson var. ambigua only requires fertilization during the growing season, which is typically between spring and summer.
Use a balanced fertilizer that's suitable for succulents, following the instructions on the packaging. Fertilize the plant once a month by diluting the fertilizer in water and watering the plant with the solution.
Pruning
Pruning Stapelia ambigua Masson var. ambigua is not necessary since it grows slowly and does not get too large. However, you can prune off any dead or yellowing leaves or stems, using clean, sterilized pruners to prevent infection.
If you wish to propagate the plant, take a stem cutting and allow it to dry out for a few days before planting it in well-draining soil.
Propagation of Stapelia ambigua Masson var. ambigua
Stapelia ambigua var. ambigua is best propagated by stem cuttings, which are very easy to root. Cuttings should be taken in spring or summer, and the parent plant should be at least three years old to ensure that the cutting has enough stored nutrients to grow.
Preparing the Soil
The soil mix for rooting should consist of coarse sand and peat moss in equal parts. The mix must be dry before the cuttings are inserted, and the soil should not be watered for about a week after the cuttings are inserted, to prevent the cuttings from rotting.
Preparing the Cuttings
Cuttings should be about 3-4 inches long and taken just below a node. The cutting should be allowed to cure in a shady, dry place for a few days before planting to allow the wound to heal and avoid moisture getting into the tissue.
Planting the Cuttings
After the cuttings have cured, they should be inserted approximately half an inch into the soil mix. Be sure to space cuttings at least an inch apart to allow each cutting to receive adequate sunlight. The container should be placed in a bright, warm, and dry location and should not be watered for at least one week after planting.
Caring for Cuttings
The cuttings should be given bright but indirect sunlight, and the soil mix should be kept moist but not overly wet. Once the cuttings have developed roots and are actively growing, they can be planted in a potting mix suitable for succulents.
Propagation of Stapelia ambigua var. ambigua is very simple, and cuttings generally root quickly, producing healthy, robust plants.
Disease and Pest Management of Stapelia ambigua Masson var. ambigua
Stapelia ambigua Masson var. ambigua is a sturdy succulent plant that is usually considered resistant to pests and diseases. However, certain conditions can make the plant vulnerable, and it is important to be aware of common issues so that they can be managed promptly if they arise.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Stapelia ambigua Masson var. ambigua is root rot, which is caused by overwatering or poorly draining soil. To prevent root rot, it is important to allow the soil to dry out between waterings and to use a well-draining soil mix. If root rot develops, the plant should be removed from the soil, the affected roots should be trimmed away, and the plant should be repotted in fresh soil.
Other fungal diseases that can affect Stapelia ambigua Masson var. ambigua include gray mold and leaf spot. Gray mold is caused by the Botrytis fungus and appears as a fuzzy gray mold on the leaves and stems. To control gray mold, remove any affected leaves or stems and ensure good air circulation around the plant. Leaf spot is caused by the Cercospora fungus and appears as brown or black spots on the leaves. To control leaf spot, remove any affected leaves and ensure that the plant is not exposed to prolonged moisture.
Common Pests
Although Stapelia ambigua Masson var. ambigua is usually pest-resistant, mealybugs and scale insects can infest the plant if conditions are favorable. Mealybugs appear as white cottony masses on the leaves and stems, while scale insects appear as small bumps. To control mealybugs and scale insects, remove them from the plant with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Repeat the process every few days until the infestation is controlled.
Another pest that can affect Stapelia ambigua Masson var. ambigua is spider mites. Spider mites are tiny and difficult to see but can cause webbing on the leaves and a general decline in plant health. To control spider mites, spray the plant thoroughly with a mixture of water and dish soap, making sure to cover both sides of the leaves. Repeat the process every few days until the infestation is controlled.
Overall, the key to managing pests and diseases in Stapelia ambigua Masson var. ambigua is to monitor the plant regularly and take action at the first sign of trouble. With proper care and attention, this plant should remain healthy and vibrant for years to come.
