Plant Description
Stapelia barklyi N.E.Br. is a species of succulent plant in the family Apocynaceae. It is commonly referred to as 'toad plant' or 'carrion flower', owing to its peculiar, foul-smelling flowers that resemble the appearance of decaying animal flesh. This stemless, perennial herb is native to southern Africa and can be grown as a potted plant or as a ground cover.
Appearance
The plant typically grows up to 10 cm tall and has a spreading habit. The stem is square-shaped and can be green or brownish-gray in color. The leaves are reduced to small scales and are not visible. The flowers are star-shaped, brownish-red or maroon in color, and have fine hairs and warty ridges on the surface. They can grow up to 12 cm in diameter and emit a strong, unpleasant odor that attracts flies and other insects.
Uses
Stapelia barklyi N.E.Br. is primarily grown as an ornamental plant due to its striking and unusual appearance. Its flowers, though unpleasantly scented, are remarkably beautiful and can be used as a centerpiece in flower arrangements or as a decorative plant in a garden. Some indigenous African tribes have used the plant for medicinal purposes to treat conditions such as toothache, snake bites, and stomach problems. However, it's important to note that the plant contains toxic compounds, and ingesting any part of it can cause severe side effects.
Light Requirements
Stapelia barklyi N.E.Br. plant typically requires bright indirect sunlight. It is best to place this plant in an area that receives about 4 to 6 hours of sunlight daily. Direct sunlight can damage the plant, so it is recommended to avoid direct sunlight during the afternoon hours.
Temperature Requirements
Stapelia barklyi N.E.Br. plant thrives in warm temperatures ranging from 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C), which makes it an ideal indoor plant. It is recommended to avoid exposing the plant to temperatures below 50°F (10°C) as it may cause damage to the plant.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-draining soil that is slightly acidic with a pH between 5.5 to 6.0. It is best to use a mixture of potting soil, sand and perlite to encourage proper drainage. The plant roots should not remain in standing water as it may lead to root rot. It is recommended to water the plant only when the soil has completely dried out.
Cultivation
The Stapelia barklyi N.E.Br. plant is not difficult to grow and care for. It prefers well-draining soil, which is either sandy or rocky. The plant can be propagated through seeds, cuttings, or offsets. To propagate the plant, use a well-draining soil mixture and keep the soil moist. The plant should be kept in a bright, sunny location for optimum growth.
Watering needs
The plant should be watered once the soil has completely dried out. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is important to avoid this. The plant is drought-tolerant and can go for long periods of time without water. However, it is important to ensure that the plant receives enough water during the growing season to support its growth.
Fertilization
The Stapelia barklyi N.E.Br. plant does not require excessive fertilization. During the growing season, a well-balanced fertilizer can be used every month or every other month. It is important to avoid using fertilizer during the dormant season. Over-fertilization can lead to poor plant growth or, in extreme cases, plant death.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for the Stapelia barklyi N.E.Br. plant. However, it can be beneficial to remove dead or diseased plant parts when necessary. This will ensure that the plant can focus its energy on healthy growth. If the plant becomes too large for its container, it can be repotted in a larger container or divided into smaller plants.
Propagation of Stapelia barklyi N.E.Br.
Propagating Stapelia barklyi N.E.Br. is a relatively easy process. There are multiple methods for propagating this plant species including division, cuttings, and seeds. As a succulent, the plant is capable of storing water in its leaves, which makes it relatively easy to propagate from cuttings.
Propagation by Division
Dividing a mature Stapelia barklyi N.E.Br. plant is an effective way to propagate the plant. This method involves separating the plant into smaller sections, each with its own root system. It is crucial to ensure that each divided section has enough roots to survive on its own. The divided sections can then be transplanted into another pot or location in the garden.
Propagation by Cuttings
Cuttings are perhaps the most common and easiest method of propagating Stapelia barklyi N.E.Br. During the warmer months when the plant is actively growing, take a cutting from the stem, making sure it is between 10 and 15 cm long. Allow the cutting to dry out for a few days or until a callus forms over the cut end. Once the callus is formed, the cutting is now ready to be planted in well-draining soil. Make sure not to overwater the cutting until it has developed roots, which usually takes between 2 and 4 weeks.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagating Stapelia barklyi N.E.Br. by seeds is a more challenging method, but it can be rewarding. Collect seeds after pollination, and plant them in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist, and the seeds will usually germinate within 2 to 4 weeks. The plant will take some time to mature and bloom, but with proper care, it will eventually develop into a mature plant.
Disease Management
Stapelia barklyi N.E.Br. is generally a hardy plant, but there are a few diseases that can occasionally affect it. The most common diseases are root rot and fungal leaf spots.
Root rot typically occurs when the soil is too wet, and the roots start to rot. One of the ways to manage this is by improving the plant's drainage. Make sure the soil is well-aerated and not too compact. Avoid over-watering the plant and allow the soil to dry out between watering sessions.
Fungal leaf spots appear as brown or black spots on the plant's leaves. The best way to prevent this is by promoting good air circulation around the plant. Ensure the plant is not overcrowded, and it's not being over-watered.
Pest Management
Stapelia barklyi N.E.Br. is also susceptible to pest infestation, with the most common pests being mealybugs and spider mites.
Mealybugs are tiny, white, cotton-like insects that can quickly multiply and damage the plant's growth. One way to manage this is by removing infected leaves and spraying the plant with a neem oil solution. Alternatively, wiping down the plant with isopropyl alcohol can help eliminate the mealybugs.
Spider mites are tiny arachnids that can infest the plant's leaves and cause significant damage. One way to manage this is by spraying the plant with a soap and water solution regularly. Additionally, ensuring the plant has adequate humidity can prevent spider mites from infesting the plant.
