Overview
Stapelia desmetiana N.E.Br. var. fergusoniae R.A.Dyer is a species of succulent plant that belongs to the Asclepiadaceae family. It is commonly known as Starfish Flower, because of the shape and color of its flowers. It is native to Southern Africa and is known for its unique properties and uses.
Physical Description
Stapelia desmetiana N.E.Br. var. fergusoniae R.A.Dyer has thick, fleshy stems that produce triangular-shaped branches up to 12 inches in length. These stems are green and heavily spotted with dark maroon or brown spots. The flowers grow on the branches and are star-shaped, with five fleshy petals in shades of dark and light brown, sometimes with a reddish tint. They have a slightly unpleasant odor that resembling rotting meat, which attracts flies for pollination.
Origins
Stapelia desmetiana N.E.Br. var. fergusoniae R.A.Dyer is native to Southern Africa, where it grows in rocky and dry habitats, often in sandy soils.
Common Names
Stapelia desmetiana N.E.Br. var. fergusoniae R.A.Dyer is commonly known by the common name Starfish Flower, and sometimes also as the African Starfish Cactus, although it is not a true cactus.
Uses
Stapelia desmetiana N.E.Br. var. fergusoniae R.A.Dyer is grown as an ornamental plant, because of its unique appearance. It is also used in traditional medicine, and has been found to have anticonvulsant and anti-bacterial properties. The plant is used to treat a variety of ailments, including headaches, stomach problems, and snakebites.
Growth Conditions for Stapelia desmetiana N.E.Br. var. fergusoniae R.A.Dyer
Light: Stapelia desmetiana N.E.Br. var. fergusoniae R.A.Dyer requires bright, indirect light for optimal growth. However, the plant should be protected from direct sunlight as it can cause leaves to scorch. A well-lit spot near a window would be ideal for this succulent plant.
Temperature: This plant thrives in warm temperatures and is sensitive to cold. It prefers a minimum temperature of 50°F (10°C) and a maximum temperature of 85°F (29°C). Keep the plant away from drafts and cold windows during winter.
Soil: Stapelia desmetiana N.E.Br. var. fergusoniae R.A.Dyer requires well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. A cactus or succulent mix would be appropriate. The addition of sand or perlite can improve drainage.
Water: This plant is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Allow the soil to dry out completely before watering, and make sure to drain off excess water. Over-watering can lead to root rot and kill the plant.
Fertilizer: Fertilizer is not necessary for this plant, but a weak dose of a succulent or cactus fertilizer during the growing season can be beneficial.
Cultivation methods
Stapelia desmetiana N.E.Br. var. fergusoniae R.A.Dyer is a succulent plant that requires well-draining soil and ample sunlight. It can be grown in a pot or a garden bed with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. The plant is susceptible to root rot, so it is important to avoid waterlogging the soil. The ideal temperature range for growth is between 15 and 30 degrees Celsius.
Watering needs
Watering should be done sparingly, once every two weeks or as the soil dries out. The plant stores water in its thick leaves, so overwatering can cause the roots to rot. In the winter season, reduce watering to once a month. When watering, it is important to avoid getting water on the leaves as this can cause rotting.
Fertilization
Stapelia desmetiana N.E.Br. var. fergusoniae R.A.Dyer requires minimal fertilization. Fertilize the plant during the growing season, from spring to early autumn, once a month using a diluted succulent fertilizer. Reduce fertilization frequency in winter as the plant is in its dormant phase.
Pruning
Pruning isn't necessary for this plant; however, trimming off any dead or damaged stems can keep the plant looking neat and tidy. It is also advisable to remove any seed pods or flowers that may have wilted or died off.
Propagation Methods for Stapelia desmetiana N.E.Br. var. fergusoniae R.A.Dyer
Propagating Stapelia desmetiana N.E.Br. var. fergusoniae R.A.Dyer can be done by various methods, including:
Stem Cuttings
One of the most straightforward ways to propagate the plant is through stem cuttings. This method requires taking a healthy stem from the parent plant and cutting it into 4-5 inch sections. It is essential to ensure that the cuttings have calloused over before planting them in well-draining soil. The cutting should be left to dry out for a few days before being planted in soil, and should be kept out of direct sunlight.
Division
An alternative propagation method is to divide the clumps of the parent plant. This method is best for mature plants, and care should be taken while dividing the stems so that no damage is caused to the parent plant. The new divisions can then be planted in pots filled with a mixture of regular potting soil and perlite, ensuring that the soil is well-draining.
Seeds
The cultivation of Stapelia desmetiana N.E.Br. var. fergusoniae R.A.Dyer can also be achieved through the use of seeds. It is essential to sow the seeds when they are fresh, as this increases their chances of germination. The seeds should be sown in pots of a suitable size filled with sand mixed with perlite in equal portions and kept in a well-lit area that is protected from direct sunlight. The soil should be kept moist but not soaking wet until the seeds germinate, which usually takes around two to four weeks.
Disease Management
Stapelia desmetiana N.E.Br. var. fergusoniae R.A.Dyer is relatively resistant to diseases, but can still fall prey to certain fungal and bacterial infections. Proper care and attention can help prevent these diseases from occurring or spreading.
One common disease that affects Stapelia desmetiana N.E.Br. var. fergusoniae R.A.Dyer is root rot, which is caused by overwatering and poorly-draining soil. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and only water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch. Remove any affected plant parts to prevent the spread of the disease.
Another disease that can affect this plant is powdery mildew. Powdery mildew is a fungal infection that presents itself as a white, powdery substance on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, reduce humidity around the plant and remove any affected parts. Fungicides can help, but should be used as a last resort.
Pest Management
Stapelia desmetiana N.E.Br. var. fergusoniae R.A.Dyer is relatively resistant to pests, but can still be targeted by a few common insect pests. Proper care and attention can help prevent these pests from infesting the plant.
One common pest that can affect this plant is mealybugs. Mealybugs are small, white insects that suck sap from the plant and leave behind a white, cottony substance. To manage mealybugs, remove them manually with a cotton swab soaked in alcohol and treat the plant with insecticidal soap.
Another pest that can affect this plant is spider mites. Spider mites are small, red insects that suck sap from the plant and leave behind tiny webs. To manage spider mites, increase humidity around the plant and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Regularly inspecting your plant and addressing any issues promptly can go a long way in preventing and managing diseases and pests in Stapelia desmetiana N.E.Br. var. fergusoniae R.A.Dyer.
