Origin and Common Names
Stapelia cylista C.A.Lückh. is a succulent plant that belongs to the family Apocynaceae. It is native to Africa, specifically in South Africa's Western Cape Province. The plant is also known by several common names such as the Carrion flower, Starfish flower, and Zulu giant. It is named after the renowned Swedish botanist, Johannes Burman Stapel.
Appearance
The Stapelia cylista C.A.Lückh. is a spiny, leafless succulent plant that grows up to 30 cm in height and 50 cm in diameter. Its growth habit is prostrate or decumbent, and it has several thick, forked stems that grow from the base. The stems are ribbed and have prominent tubercles with silvery-white bristles. The plant's foliage is reduced to small, scale-like leaves that are only present during the early growth stages.
The plant's most notable feature is its large, star-shaped flowers that can grow up to 25 cm in diameter. The flowers, which bloom from late summer to early autumn, have a putrid odor that attracts flies and other pollinators. They are fleshy, hairy, and have leathery petals that range in color from brown to purple or maroon. The center of the flower is marked with a distinctive raised ring that is surrounded by numerous short, recurved lobes.
Uses
The Stapelia cylista C.A.Lückh. plant has several uses. In some parts of Africa, its stem and roots are used to treat various ailments such as stomach problems, constipation, and snakebites. The plant is also of significant interest to horticulturists, as it makes for an unusual and striking addition to a collection of succulent plants. Its large, showy, and putrid blooms also attract many insect pollinators. Some individuals also grow the Stapelia cylista C.A.Lückh. for ornamental purposes.
Despite its putrid scent, the plant is known to add an element of novelty and fascination to gardens or indoor spaces and can be grown with minimal effort, making it appealing to beginning gardeners. Because the plant is easy to propagate from cuttings, it is often shared among gardening enthusiasts, and its exotic appearance has gained it a growing popularity.
Light Requirements
Stapelia cylista C.A.Lückh. requires bright, indirect sunlight. It should not be exposed to direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves. The plant should be placed in a location where it can receive at least six hours of sunlight daily. East or west-facing windows are ideal for this plant.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for the growth of Stapelia cylista C.A.Lückh. is between 18°C to 27°C (65°F to 80°F). This plant is not tolerant of extreme cold temperatures or frost. It should be protected from temperatures below 10°C (50°F) to prevent damage to the foliage and flowers.
Soil Requirements
Stapelia cylista C.A.Lückh. requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The ideal soil mix for this plant should contain a mixture of sand, peat moss, and perlite. The soil should have a pH range of 6 to 7.5. The plant should be potted in a container with drainage holes to prevent water-logging.
Cultivation
Stapelia cylista C.A.Lückh. is a succulent plant that grows well in warm and dry climates. It requires well-draining soil and ample sunlight to thrive. The plant can be propagated through stem cuttings or seeds. The optimal time for planting is in the spring or summer.
Watering Needs
Stapelia cylista C.A.Lückh. does not need frequent watering. Overwatering can cause root rot and damage the plant. The soil must be allowed to dry out completely before watering again. Watering should be done sparingly, especially during the winter dormancy period.
Fertilization
Stapelia cylista C.A.Lückh. does not require frequent feeding. However, the plant can benefit from a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season. The fertilizer should be applied once every four to six weeks. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can damage the plant.
Pruning
Stapelia cylista C.A.Lückh. does not require pruning. However, dead or decayed plant matter should be removed immediately to prevent the spread of disease. The plant can be trimmed occasionally to maintain its shape and size.
Propagation of Stapelia cylista
Stapelia cylista can be propagated by various methods such as stem cuttings, seed sowing, and division of clumps.
Stem cuttings
The best time to take stem cuttings is during the growing season. Select a healthy stem and cut a section about 4 to 6 inches long. Make sure the cutting is dry for a day or two before planting. Plant the cutting in well-draining soil mix about an inch deep and keep it in a warm and light spot. New roots should start to develop in a few weeks, and the cutting will begin to grow once established.
Seed sowing
Seeds are produced by the flowers of the Stapelia cylista plant. The seeds can be sown in the spring, in well-draining soil mix. To improve the germination rate, soak the seeds in warm water for a few hours before sowing. Seeds should be covered lightly with soil and kept in a warm and bright location. It may take several weeks for the seeds to germinate, and once they do, the seedlings can be transplanted into individual pots once they are robust enough.
Division of clumps
Stapelia cylista can be propagated by dividing clumps, which is best done in the spring. The plant should be carefully lifted from the pot, and the clump separated into sections, ensuring each section has some roots and stems. The offsets can be potted up individually, in a well-draining soil mix and kept in a warm, brightly lit location until established.
These propagation methods allow for the production of many new plants, which can be shared with friends or used to increase the size of your collection.
Disease and Pest Management for Stapelia cylista C.A.Lückh.
Stapelia cylista C.A.Lückh. is a succulent plant that is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but like all plants, it can be affected by certain issues. Here are some common diseases and pests that may affect Stapelia cylista and ways to manage them.
Pathogens and Diseases
Stapelia cylista can be prone to fungal diseases, especially if overwatered or kept in damp conditions. Rotting of the stem or root is a common issue. Ensure that the plant is not overwatered and that it has proper drainage. Remove any infected or dead parts of the plant immediately to prevent the spread of the disease. You can use a fungicide to control the spread of fungal diseases.
Leaf spots can also be a common issue in Stapelia cylista. The spots can be caused by fungal or bacterial diseases, and they can spread rapidly. Remove infected leaves immediately and avoid watering the plant from the top. Use a fungicide or bactericide to control the spread of the disease.
Pests
Stapelia cylista can be infested by mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. Mealybugs look like tiny white cotton balls, while spider mites and scale insects are small insects that cluster on the leaves and stems of the plant.
In case of an infestation, the best approach is to remove the infected leaves or cut back the plant. You can also wash the plant with soapy water or use insecticidal soap to control the pests.
Regularly inspect the plant for any signs of disease or pests and take immediate action to prevent the spread and further damage to the plant.
