Origin
Stapelia ambigua Masson var. fulva Sweet is a succulent plant that originates from South Africa, specifically in the Cape Province and Karoo. It is commonly found in dry, rocky areas and is known for its hardy nature and ability to withstand droughts.
Common Names
Stapelia ambigua Masson var. fulva Sweet is commonly known as the Carrion Flower, Starfish Flower, or simply Stapelia. The plant's common names are derived from the pungent odor that the flowers emit, similar to that of rotting meat or carrion, which attracts flies for pollination.
Uses
Stapelia ambigua Masson var. fulva Sweet is generally grown as an ornamental plant due to its unique and unusual flowers. The plant is often cultivate in rock gardens or as a potted plant, and it can also be propagated by cuttings. The plant is also beneficial in controlling pests as it attracts flies that can predate on harmful insects.
General Appearance
Stapelia ambigua Masson var. fulva Sweet is a clump-forming succulent that grows horizontally. It features light green to gray-green, triangular to quadrangular-shaped stems that are up to 10 cm long and 2 cm wide. The plant blooms in the summer with hairy, five-pointed, star-shaped flowers that range in color from yellow to orange-red or brown. The flowers are 3-5 cm in diameter and are covered in fine hair. The plant's leaves are reduced to small scales along their stem, and it does not produce any true leaves.
Light Requirements
Stapelia ambigua Masson var. fulva Sweet grows best in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight as it can burn the leaves, leading to leaf drop.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers warm temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C). It can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures during the winter months but should be protected from frost.
Soil Requirements
The soil should be well-draining and nutrient-rich. A cactus or succulent mix is suitable, or you can add sand or perlite to regular potting soil to improve drainage. It's important to note that Stapelia ambigua Masson var. fulva Sweet is sensitive to overwatering, and the soil should dry out between waterings.
Cultivation methods:
The Stapelia ambigua Masson var. fulva Sweet is a succulent plant that is native to the Eastern Cape region in South Africa. When it comes to cultivation, it is essential to ensure it is grown in well-draining soil that has been mixed with sand or grit to aid drainage. The use of a terracotta or clay pot is ideal to grow this plant as it helps with the necessary airflow around the plant's roots.
It is also essential to ensure that the plant is provided with plenty of sunlight, but it should be protected from direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day to avoid scorching the plant. When it comes to ideal temperatures, this plant thrives in temperatures between 50 to 65F, and they do not do well in temperatures that exceed 90F.
Watering needs:
The Stapelia ambigua Masson var. fulva Sweet is a succulent that thrives in arid conditions; hence it can be watered sparingly. It is advisable to wait for the soil to dry out entirely before watering, as this plant can quickly rot when overwatered. You can test the soil for dryness by sticking your fingers into the soil, and if it feels moist, then it is not yet time to water the plant.
During the winter months, it is essential to reduce the watering frequency as the plant goes into dormancy.
Fertilization:
This plant benefits from fertilization during the growing season, which is from spring to late summer. You can use a cactus or succulent fertilizer that is diluted to half strength and apply it every four weeks.
It is essential to note that over-fertilizing can lead to poor growth and flowering.
Pruning:
When it comes to pruning the Stapelia ambigua Masson var. fulva Sweet, it is essential to remove dead or damaged stems to encourage new growth. This plant does not require heavy pruning as it has a slow growth rate.
Sharp pruning shears or scissors should be used when pruning to prevent damage to the plant.
Propagation of Stapelia Ambigua Masson var. Fulva Sweet
Stapelia Ambigua Masson var. Fulva Sweet is commonly propagated through stem cuttings, seed, and division.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Stapelia Ambigua can be propagated through stem cuttings during the active growing season. The cuttings should be taken from healthy, mature stems that have not yet flowered. The cuttings should be at least 4 inches long and allowed to dry for several days.
After drying, the cutting can be inserted into a well-draining potting mix, preferably a cactus mix, or a sandy soil mixture to aid in rooting. The cutting should be watered sparingly until it roots, which takes usually 4 to 6 weeks. During the rooting period, the cutting should be kept in a bright but sheltered area, with partial sun exposure to prevent scorching.
Propagation by Seed
Stapelia Ambigua can also be propagated through seeds. The seeds can be obtained from mature fruits that have matured on the plant for a few months. The seeds should be collected and sown immediately into a well-draining potting mix. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged, since the seedlings are prone to rotting.
During the germination period, the soil temperature should be kept above 18ºC (65ºF), and the seedlings should be kept under bright and indirect sunlight until they can tolerate direct sunlight.
Propagation by Division
Stapelia Ambigua can also be propagated through division, but this should be done sparingly since the plant can suffer severe damage during this process. Division is best done when the plant has become too large for its container or has developed a dense clump of stems.
During division, the clump should be gently removed from the soil, and the stems should be separated, making sure that each stem has some roots attached. The divided plant should be planted into a well-draining potting mix and watered sparingly until it establishes itself.
With proper care, the propagated Stapelia Ambigua Masson var. Fulva Sweet will develop into mature plants that produce beautiful flowers.
Disease and Pest Management for Stapelia ambigua Masson var. fulva Sweet
Stapelia ambigua Masson var. fulva Sweet, commonly known as the Carrion Flower due to its odor, is a succulent plant that is low maintenance and resistant to most diseases and pests. However, if the environment is not suitable or there is a lack of proper care, the plant may become vulnerable to attacks. It is important to identify and manage these diseases and pests to keep the plant healthy.
Common Diseases
Root rot is a common disease that affects the Carrion Flower. It is caused by overwatering or poorly drained soil. Symptoms of root rot include yellow leaves, wilting, and a soft stem. To manage this disease, remove the affected plant from the soil and remove any rotted roots. Repot the plant in fresh soil and avoid overwatering in the future.
Another common disease is powdery mildew. It is caused by a fungus that forms a white powdery layer on the leaves, eventually causing them to turn brown and fall off. To manage powdery mildew, remove the affected leaves and treat the plant with a fungicide. Ensure good air circulation around the plant to prevent further outbreaks.
Common Pests
Mealybugs are a common pest that affects the Carrion Flower. They can be identified by the cotton-like substance they leave on the plant, as well as yellow leaves and stunted growth. To manage mealybugs, wipe the plant with a cotton swab soaked in rubbing alcohol or insecticidal soap. Ensure that the plant is not over-fertilized, as this can attract mealybugs.
Spider mites are another common pest that affect the Carrion Flower. They can be identified by tiny webs on the plant, as well as yellow leaves and stunted growth. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with water to remove the webs and treat with insecticidal soap or a miticide. Ensure good air circulation around the plant to prevent future outbreaks.
Overall, good care practices such as appropriate watering, sunlight exposure, and proper soil drainage can prevent diseases and pests from attacking the Carrion Flower. In the event that the plant does become affected, prompt identification and management can save the plant and prevent further damage.
