Origin
Stapelia gettliffei R.Pott x Orbea tapscottii (I.Verd.) L.C.Leach, also known as Carrion Flower, belongs to the Apocynaceae or the Dogbane family. It is native to South Africa and is typically found in the Eastern Cape Province.
Common Names
Aside from Carrion Flower, this plant has several other common names like Starfish Flower, Toad Cactus, and Black Starfish. These names were given due to the plant's unusual shape and odor.
Uses
Stapelia gettliffei R.Pott x Orbea tapscottii (I.Verd.) L.C.Leach is usually grown as an ornamental plant. It is a fascinating addition to any garden due to its unique appearance, but it is not advisable to grow it indoors because of its strong odor.
Additionally, some indigenous people from South Africa and Botswana have been known to use the plant medicinally. The plant's bitter stem and roots are utilized to treat ailments like diabetes, tuberculosis, and diarrhea. The juice of the plant's stem is also used as a treatment for snake bites.
General Appearance
Stapelia gettliffei R.Pott x Orbea tapscottii (I.Verd.) L.C.Leach is a succulent plant that grows up to 15 centimeters in height. It has a star-shaped flower that is about 10 centimeters in diameter. The flower's petals are thick, fleshy, and hairy. They have a unique color pattern of black and yellow that resembles a starfish. On the inside of the flower, a hairy, maroon-color corolla can be seen.
The plant also produces an unpleasant smell to attract flies, its primary pollinators. The smell resembles that of rotten meat, earning it the name "Carrion Flower".
Growth Conditions for Stapelia gettliffei R.Pott x Orbea tapscottii (I.Verd.) L.C.Leach
Light: Stapelia gettliffei R.Pott x Orbea tapscottii (I.Verd.) L.C.Leach thrives in bright indirect light. It is important to keep the plant out of direct sunlight to avoid scorching the leaves and flowers. A good rule of thumb is to place the plant near a window that receives bright, indirect light for at least six hours a day.
Temperature: This plant species is native to warmer regions and prefers a warm, humid environment. A temperature range of 60-85°F is ideal for Stapelia gettliffei R.Pott x Orbea tapscottii (I.Verd.) L.C.Leach. Avoid exposing the plant to temperatures below 50°F.
Soil: The soil for Stapelia gettliffei R.Pott x Orbea tapscottii (I.Verd.) L.C.Leach should be well-draining and rich in nutrients. A mix of succulent soil and perlite is recommended to provide the plant with good drainage and aeration. It is important to avoid overwatering the plant as it is susceptible to root rot.
Cultivation methods
The Stapelia gettliffei R.Pott x Orbea tapscottii (I.Verd.) L.C.Leach plant requires a warm and sandy climate where there is plenty of sunlight. It's best to cultivate them in well-drained soil, which helps prevent root rot and improve the quality of the plant. You can plant them in either pots or in the ground. It's also important to give them enough space to grow, as not overcrowding makes it easier to care for the plant.
Watering needs
The Stapelia gettliffei R.Pott x Orbea tapscottii (I.Verd.) L.C.Leach plant is a succulent and can store water in its fat stems and leaves. Therefore, it's best to water them sparingly. One should wait for the soil to dry out before watering the plant again. Overwatering can cause the roots to rot, and therefore it's better to water less than more. It's best to use warm water, as it can shock the roots when using cold water.
Fertilization
The Stapelia gettliffei R.Pott x Orbea tapscottii (I.Verd.) L.C.Leach plant doesn't require frequent fertilization. Instead, adding compost once a year is sufficient. However, with the plant's growth, one can add a slow-release fertilizer every few months. Over-fertilizing the plant can lead to root burn, so it's important to follow the recommended instructions.
Pruning
Pruning may not be necessary for the Stapelia gettliffei R.Pott x Orbea tapscottii (I.Verd.) L.C.Leach plant, but one can trim off any dead or dry stems to promote new growth. Additionally, if the plant is starting to outgrow its pot, one can transplant it into a larger container. However, it is advisable not to disturb the root system as much as possible when transplanting the plant. It's equally important to use new soil when transplanting to ensure that the soil is not contaminated with fungi or bacteria.
Propagation of Stapelia gettliffei R.Pott x Orbea tapscottii (I.Verd.) L.C.Leach
Stapelia gettliffei R.Pott x Orbea tapscottii (I.Verd.) L.C.Leach, commonly known as carrion flower, belongs to the family Apocynaceae. The plant is not only grown for its unusual appearance, but also for its unique smell that attracts flies, which act as pollinators. One of the best ways to increase the number of plants is by propagating them.
Propagation by Seeds
The method that is commonly used to propagate Stapelia gettliffei R.Pott x Orbea tapscottii (I.Verd.) L.C.Leach is by sowing seeds. To be successful with this method, fresh seeds should be harvested from the plant and surface-sown in a well-draining soil mix. It is important to keep the soil moist during the germination period, which is usually within a week or two after sowing. After about two months, the seedlings should be large enough to be transplanted.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Propagation by stem cuttings is the second way to propagate the carrion flower. This method is particularly useful when the plant has reached maturity and produced stems that can be cut to obtain new growth. The cutting should be taken from a healthy stem, and after being allowed to dry for a few days, it can be planted in a well-draining soil mix. The soil should be kept moist, and the cutting should be kept in a shaded area until it starts to produce new growth.
Propagation by Division
Propagation by division is one more way to increase the number of plants. This method is best done during the spring when new growth is starting to emerge. The rootball should be carefully lifted out of its container, and using a sharp, sterile knife, it should be divided into several sections. Each section should have at least one healthy stem and roots. The newly divided sections can then be potted in a well-draining soil mix and watered thoroughly.
Disease and Pest Management for Stapelia gettliffei R.Pott x Orbea tapscottii (I.Verd.) L.C.Leach
Stapelia gettliffei R.Pott x Orbea tapscottii (I.Verd.) L.C.Leach is a beautiful plant that can enhance the aesthetics of any home or garden. However, like any other plant, it is susceptible to several diseases and pests. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect this plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
1. Root Rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that can be caused by overwatering, poor drainage, or soil that does not offer good airflow. Signs of root rot include yellowing leaves, mushy roots, and a rotten odor. To manage root rot, allow the soil to dry out before watering again, ensure proper drainage, and use well-aerated soil.
2. Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that looks like a white powdery substance on the leaves of the plant. This disease is caused by high humidity and lack of airflow. To manage powdery mildew, reduce the humidity levels and increase the airflow by placing the plant in a well-ventilated area.
3. Bacterial Soft Rot: Bacterial soft rot is a bacterial disease that can cause the plant's stem to turn soft and mushy. This disease is caused by overwatering and poor ventilation. To manage bacterial soft rot, allow the soil to dry out before watering again, ensure proper ventilation, and remove infected parts of the plant immediately.
Pests
1. Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, white insects that suck the sap from the plant's leaves and stems. Signs of mealybug infestation include a white, powdery substance on the plant, and wilted leaves. To manage mealybugs, use a cotton swab dipped in alcohol to remove them from the plant or use an organic insecticide.
2. Spider Mites: Spider mites are common pests that can suck the plant's sap and cause the leaves to turn yellow or brown. Signs of spider mites infestation include web-like material on the plant's leaves. To manage spider mites, use a spray bottle filled with water to clean the plant's leaves or use an organic insecticide.
3. Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the plant's leaves and stems. Signs of aphid infestation include yellowed or curled leaves and sticky residue on the plant. To manage aphids, use a spray bottle filled with soapy water to remove them from the plant or use an organic insecticide.
By following these simple tips, you can manage the diseases and pests that might affect Stapelia gettliffei R.Pott x Orbea tapscottii (I.Verd.) L.C.Leach and keep your plant healthy and beautiful.
