Overview:
Stapelia hirsuta L. var. affinis (N.E.Br.) N.E.Br., commonly known as the Carrion Flower or Starfish Flower, is a succulent plant belonging to the family Apocynaceae. It is native to the eastern parts of Southern Africa and is widely cultivated in other parts of the world as an ornamental plant for its unique and fascinating appearance.
General Appearance:
The Carrion Flower is a low-growing, densely branched, and stemless succulent plant that can reach a height of up to 15 cm. The plant typically consists of four or five angled ribs, which are densely covered with short bristles and hairs. The flowers of this plant are large, star-shaped, and measure about 12 cm in diameter. They have a strong, unpleasant odor that attracts carrion flies, which are the pollinators of the plant.
Common Names:
The plant has several common names, including Carrion Flower, Starfish Flower, Star Flower, and Toad Plant. These names are attributed to the appearance of the flower, which resembles a starfish or a toad when viewed from above.
Uses:
Stapelia hirsuta L. var. affinis (N.E.Br.) N.E.Br. is primarily grown as an ornamental plant. The unusual shape and color of the flower, along with the unpleasant odor, make it an attractive plant for collectors and gardeners. However, some indigenous African tribes use the plant for medicinal purposes. The roots and stems of the plant are used to treat a variety of ailments, including snakebites, stomach pains, and infection of the digestive tract.
Light requirements
Stapelia hirsuta L. var. affinis (N.E.Br.) N.E.Br. requires bright but indirect light for optimal growth. Avoid placing the plant in direct sunlight as it may scorch the leaves and disrupt growth. However, the plant can tolerate low light conditions for a short period, but it may affect the flowering and growth rate.
Temperature requirements
The plant growth is best maintained in a temperature range of 18°C (65°F) to 27°C (80°F). Stapelia hirsuta L. var. affinis (N.E.Br.) N.E.Br. is sensitive to frost and cannot survive in temperatures below 10°C (50°F). Therefore, it is advisable to keep the plant in a location with a consistently warm temperature.
Soil requirements
Stapelia hirsuta L. var. affinis (N.E.Br.) N.E.Br. prefers well-draining soil with a neutral pH. The plant requires good drainage, and the soil should not be waterlogged. Soil with a high organic matter content is ideal for the growth of the plant. You can mix coarse sand or perlite with your potting soil to improve drainage, and avoid overwatering the plant which could lead to root rot.
Cultivation Methods
Stapelia hirsuta L. var. affinis (N.E.Br.) N.E.Br. commonly known as 'Mimicry Plant', 'Starfish Flower', or 'Carrion Plant', is a succulent plant native to South Africa, Botswana, and Namibia. It is a relatively easy plant to cultivate and does well both indoors and outdoors. When growing this plant, it is essential to replicate its natural habitat as closely as possible while paying attention to various vital factors.
To cultivate Stapelia hirsuta L. var. affinis (N.E.Br.) N.E.Br., ensure that you plant it in a well-draining soil mixture that has ample aeration. It does well in containers as well as directly in the ground. The Mimicry plant prefers a bright, sunny location and can tolerate heat well.
Watering Needs
Stapelia hirsuta L. var. affinis (N.E.Br.) N.E.Br. is drought resistant and can tolerate long periods of water deprivation. However, when grown in a container, it is essential to ensure that the soil does not stay completely dry for prolonged periods as it may lead to root rot.
Water your Mimicry plant when the soil mixture is almost dry to the touch. When it comes to watering, it is crucial to avoid overwatering. This plant is prone to root rot and fungal infections caused by overwatering.
Fertilization
Stapelia hirsuta L. var. affinis (N.E.Br.) N.E.Br. does not require a lot of fertilization. Feed your plant with a balanced, water-soluble cactus fertilizer once per month during the growing season. It is not necessary to fertilize it during the winter as the plant is dormant at this time and requires less nutrition.
Pruning
The Mimicry Plant does not require a lot of pruning. However, if you notice that the plant has outgrown its container, prune its roots and repot it in a bigger container. Prune any yellow or brown leaves as they may be an indication of pest infestations or fungal infections. Pruning encourages the Mimicry plant to produce new growth and ensures that it maintains a compact size.
Propagation of Stapelia hirsuta L. var. affinis (N.E.Br.) N.E.Br.
Stapelia hirsuta L. var. affinis (N.E.Br.) N.E.Br. can be propagated by both seeds and cuttings. However, stem cuttings are the most common method of propagation for this plant. Here are some details about both methods:
Propagation by Seeds:
The seeds of the Stapelia hirsuta L. var. affinis (N.E.Br.) N.E.Br. are quite small and need to be handled with care. To propagate this plant through seeds, it is important to ensure that the seeds are fresh. Sow the seeds in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and warm. The seeds will germinate within four to six weeks.
Propagation by Cuttings:
To propagate the Stapelia hirsuta L. var. affinis (N.E.Br.) N.E.Br. through cuttings, take a healthy stem cutting that is at least 4 inches long. Allow the cutting to dry out for a day or two, and then dip the cut end of the stem into rooting hormone. Plant the stem cutting in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and let the cutting take root. The cutting should root within six to eight weeks.
Disease and Pest Management for Stapelia hirsuta L. var. affinis (N.E.Br.) N.E.Br.
Stapelia hirsuta L. var. affinis (N.E.Br.) N.E.Br. is a succulent plant that belongs to the Asclepiadaceae family. Like most plants, it is susceptible to pests and diseases. Proper care and maintenance of the plant can help prevent and control infestations. Here are some common pests and diseases that affect this plant and ways to manage them:
Pest Management
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are common insects that can infest stapelia plants. They appear as white cotton-like spots on the plant, especially on the stems. To control them, you can use rubbing alcohol to wipe them off or a solution of dish soap and water to spray them off. Alternatively, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat them.
Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny insects that can infest stapelia plants. They appear as tiny dots on the leaves. To control them, you can use a solution of dish soap and water to wipe them off or insecticidal soap or neem oil to spray them.
Scale insects: Scale insects are another common pest that can infest stapelia plants. They appear as small bumps on the stems or leaves. To control them, you can use rubbing alcohol to wipe them off or insecticidal soap or neem oil to spray them.
Disease Management
Root rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant. It is caused by overwatering or poor drainage. To prevent root rot, make sure the plant is planted in well-draining soil and water it only when the soil is dry to the touch.
Leaf spots: Leaf spots are fungal diseases that appear as small brown or black spots on the leaves. They are caused by moist conditions. To prevent leaf spots, avoid getting water on the leaves and maintain proper air circulation around the plant.
Virus: Stapelia plants can be infected by viruses that cause stunted growth, yellowing or mottled leaves, and distorted flowers. To prevent virus infections, avoid using contaminated tools on the plant and remove any infected plant material immediately.
By taking proper care of the plant and being vigilant for pests and diseases, you can ensure the health and longevity of your Stapelia hirsuta L. var. affinis (N.E.Br.) N.E.Br.
