Overview
The Stapelia gettliffei R.Pott x Tavaresia barklyi (Thiselton-Dyer) N.E.Br. is a type of succulent plant that is native to southern Africa. It belongs to the family of Apocynaceae and is commonly known as the "Carrion Plant" or "Stink Flower" due to its unique odor that attracts flies for pollination.
Description
The Stapelia gettliffei R.Pott x Tavaresia barklyi (Thiselton-Dyer) N.E.Br. is a low-growing, stemless succulent plant that grows up to 12 inches tall. The plant has a fleshy stem that bears long, triangular-shaped, and thick-textured leaves that are up to 6 inches long and 1 inch wide. The leaves are green with wavy edges and covered with fine hairs.
The plant produces large, star-shaped flowers that are about 8 inches in diameter. The flowers are yellow with maroon or purplish-brown markings, and they have a strong, unpleasant odor that mimics rotting meat. The flowers bloom in the summer and attract flies, which help to pollinate the plant.
Uses
The Stapelia gettliffei R.Pott x Tavaresia barklyi (Thiselton-Dyer) N.E.Br. is primarily grown as an ornamental plant because of its unusual and beautiful flowers. The plant is often grown in pots or containers and used in rock gardens, succulent gardens, and as a houseplant. The plant is also used in traditional medicine in some parts of Africa to treat a variety of ailments, including indigestion, tuberculosis, and high blood pressure.
However, it is important to note that the plant can be toxic to humans and pets if ingested, so it should be kept out of reach of children and animals.
Light Requirements
The Stapelia gettliffei R.Pott x Tavaresia barklyi (Thiselton-Dyer) N.E.Br. plant requires bright, indirect sunlight to grow well. Direct sunlight can scorch the plant and cause damage. Placing the plant near a bright window is ideal for its growth. In case natural light is not available, artificial grow lights may be used to provide the necessary light conditions.
Temperature Requirements
The Stapelia gettliffei R.Pott x Tavaresia barklyi (Thiselton-Dyer) N.E.Br. plant prefers warm temperatures to thrive. The ideal temperature range for its growth is between 60?-80? (15.5?-26.6?). Temperatures below 50? (10?) can damage the plant. Keeping the plant away from draughts and sudden temperature changes is also crucial for its healthy growth.
Soil Requirements
The Stapelia gettliffei R.Pott x Tavaresia barklyi (Thiselton-Dyer) N.E.Br. plant requires well-draining soil with good moisture retention capacity. The soil should be a mixture of sand, perlite, and peat moss to create a well-draining and moisture-retaining medium. The soil pH should be between 6.5-7.5. The plant must not be overwatered or underwatered, which can cause damage and stunt its growth.
Cultivation of Stapelia gettliffei R.Pott x Tavaresia barklyi (Thiselton-Dyer) N.E.Br.
Stapelia gettliffei R.Pott x Tavaresia barklyi (Thiselton-Dyer) N.E.Br. is a beautiful and unique plant that is native to South Africa. The plant is relatively easy to care for, making it a great choice for both beginner and experienced gardeners. To cultivate this plant, you'll need to provide it with the right conditions, including the appropriate soil, light, and temperature.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-drained soil. A cactus mix with added perlite will create the right conditions for the growth of this plant. The soil should also be slightly acidic, with a pH of around 6.0-7.5.
Light Requirements
Stapelia gettliffei R.Pott x Tavaresia barklyi (Thiselton-Dyer) N.E.Br. requires full sun to grow well. Placing it in a bright, sunny spot is the best way to ensure healthy growth. If you are growing it indoors, a south-facing window or a grow light will provide the necessary light.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers warm temperatures, ideally between 60-90°F (16-32°C). It is essential to protect the plant from frost as it can be damaged when exposed to cold temperatures.
Watering Needs
The plant is drought-tolerant, which means you should let the soil dry out between watering. During the hotter months, you may need to water the plant once a week, but in the cooler months, once every two weeks may be enough. Always ensure you do not overwater the plant as this may lead to root rot.
Fertilization
The plant should be fertilized every two to four weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Use a cactus fertilizer with a balanced NPK ratio, for instance, 2-4-4. No fertilization is required during the dormant season (fall and winter).
Pruning
The plant rarely requires pruning. If the plant becomes too leggy, you can pinch back its stems to encourage fuller growth. Removing spent flowers can also help prevent pests or diseases.
Propagation of Stapelia gettliffei R.Pott x Tavaresia barklyi (Thiselton-Dyer) N.E.Br.
The propagation of Stapelia gettliffei R.Pott x Tavaresia barklyi (Thiselton-Dyer) N.E.Br. is usually done through stem or leaf cuttings. It is an easy-to-propagate plant, and the propagation process is relatively quick.
Propagation through Stem Cuttings
To propagate Stapelia gettliffei R.Pott x Tavaresia barklyi (Thiselton-Dyer) N.E.Br. through stem cuttings, choose a healthy stem and cut it just below the node. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the stem, and let it dry in a well-ventilated place for a few days. Once the cut end has dried, dip it in rooting hormone powder and plant it in a well-draining soil mix. Water lightly and keep the soil moist but not overly wet. The cutting should develop roots in a few weeks.
Propagation through Leaf Cuttings
To propagate Stapelia gettliffei R.Pott x Tavaresia barklyi (Thiselton-Dyer) N.E.Br. through leaf cuttings, choose a healthy leaf and cut it off the stem. Allow the leaf to dry for a few days before placing it in a well-draining soil mix. Water lightly and keep the soil moist but not overly wet. The leaf should develop roots and start to produce new plantlets in a few weeks.
Propagation of Stapelia gettliffei R.Pott x Tavaresia barklyi (Thiselton-Dyer) N.E.Br. can also be done through division. This method involves dividing the mother plant into smaller sections that each have their own root system. However, this method is not recommended for this particular plant because the stems are quite fragile and may not survive the division process.
Disease and Pest Management for Stapelia gettliffei R.Pott x Tavaresia barklyi (Thiselton-Dyer) N.E.Br.
Stapelia gettliffei R.Pott x Tavaresia barklyi (Thiselton-Dyer) N.E.Br. is a succulent plant with showy, star-shaped flowers that look like a starfish. While it is a hardy plant, it is not immune to diseases or pests. Therefore, it is essential to be aware of common diseases and pests that might impact the plant and how to treat them.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that Stapelia gettliffei can face is root rot. This disease happens when the roots start to decay due to excessive watering or poor drainage. To prevent root rot, it is essential to ensure that the plant is not overwatered, and the pot has appropriate drainage. If the plant is already affected by root rot, remove the plant from the soil, trim off the decayed roots, and repot with fresh soil.
Fungal infections, such as Grey Mold (Botrytis cinerea), can occur when humidity levels are high, and the temperature is low. The first sign of infection is brown spots on the leaves, which quickly spread to other parts of the plant. To prevent fungal infections, it is essential to keep the plant in a well-ventilated place with appropriate temperature and humidity levels. The infected plant parts should be removed and discarded far away from the plant.
Common Pests
Mealybugs are one of the most common pests affecting Stapelia gettliffei plants. They are small, white insects that suck plant juices, causing stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. The first sign of infestation is a white cottony substance in the plant's crevices. Mealybugs can be controlled by dabbing them with a cotton ball soaked in rubbing alcohol or insecticidal soap.
Scale insects are another common pest that affects Stapelia gettliffei plants. They are small, brown insects that resemble small bumps on the plant's stem and foliage. They suck the juice from the plant, causing wilting and stunted growth. To control scale insects, it is essential to clean the plant foliage regularly. Use a cotton ball dipped in rubbing alcohol or insecticidal soap to remove the insects from the plant.
Spider mites can also infest Stapelia gettliffei plants. They suck plant juices, causing the plant to look dull and lifeless. The first sign of spider mites is webbing underneath the leaves. To control spider mites, first, increase humidity levels as these pests thrive in dry conditions. A strong jet of water can be used to wash off the spider mites and their webs; applying insecticidal soap also helps.
In conclusion, to keep Stapelia gettliffei R.Pott x Tavaresia barklyi (Thiselton-Dyer) N.E.Br. healthy, it is essential to be aware of diseases and pests that might impact the plant. Preventive measures can be taken to minimize the risk of infections and pests. However, if these problems are already afflicting the plant, appropriate treatment can help save the plant.
