Origin
Stapelia longidens N.E.Br. commonly known as starfish flower is a stem succulent plant that originates from South Africa, particularly in the Cape Province in the Karoo region.
Common Names
This plant is commonly known by its scientific name Stapelia longidens N.E.Br, as well as other common names such as Long-toothed Starfish Flower, and False Carrion Flower.
Uses
The Stapelia longidens N.E.Br. plant has been traditionally used for medicinal purposes, such as to treat indigestion, toothache, and to reduce fever. The plant is also cultivated as an ornamental plant due to its peculiar and unique flowers, which resemble a star-shaped mass of tentacles and emit a foul odor that attracts flies and beetles for pollination.
General Appearance
The Stapelia longidens N.E.Br. plant's stems are thick and succulent, growing up to 30 cm long and 12 mm in diameter. The leaves are rudimentary and appear only during the juvenile phase of the plant. The flowers grow on the stem tips and resemble a star-shaped mass of tentacles, measuring up to 10 cm in diameter. The petals are fused with each other, forming a hairy or warty surface, where a brownish-purple to maroon central column emerges, covered in short hairs. The unpleasant odor emitted by the flowers is intended to attract flies and beetles for pollination. When growing, Stapelia longidens N.E.Br. requires well-draining soil and a full sun exposure, and is quite tolerant to drought conditions.
Light Requirements
Stapelia longidens N.E.Br. needs bright but indirect light to grow well. Direct sunlight can damage the plant's leaves and cause them to turn yellow. Therefore, placing the plant in a spot that receives filtered or partial sunlight is ideal. You can use sheer curtains or a shade cloth to filter the sunlight and protect the plant from intense heat.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Stapelia longidens N.E.Br. is between 60°F and 85°F (15°C to 30°C). The plant cannot tolerate frost or freezing temperatures, so it should be protected from extreme cold by bringing it indoors during the winter. Additionally, the plant should be kept away from air conditioning or heating vents, which can cause fluctuations in temperature and humidity.
Soil Requirements
Stapelia longidens N.E.Br. prefers well-draining soil that is sandy or gritty. The soil should be slightly alkaline, with a pH range of 7.0 to 8.0. The plant also needs good air circulation around the roots to prevent root rot. Hence, adding coarse sand or perlite to the soil mixture can improve drainage and create a better environment for the plant's roots.
Cultivation Methods
For optimum growth and overall health, Stapelia longidens N.E.Br. require proper care and monitoring. It's essential to use well-drained soil that suits the soil and light requirements of the plant. This plant will thrive well in bright indirect sunlight, and partial shade is also acceptable as long as it receives a few hours of direct light each day. Outdoors, temperatures of 10°C and above are ideal, and they can tolerate temperatures up to 30°C.
Watering Needs
Stapelia longidens N.E.Br. Plant is more tolerant of underwatering than overwatering. To water the plant, pour water into the pot until it seeps out from the bottom. Water your plant deeply only once a week in the growing season. In the winter season, reduce watering the plant to once every two weeks. The plant must never sit in standing water because it will cause root rot, and the plant may eventually die.
Fertilization
Stapelia longidens N.E.Br. is not heavy feeders, but they will appreciate occasional feeding. During the growing season, use a cactus-specific fertilizer once a month to provide nutrients. Water your plant thoroughly before fertilizing, and never fertilize a dry plant.
Pruning
Pruning Stapelia longidens N.E.Br are not necessary, but it would help it maintain its shape and size. Trim off any yellowed or damaged leaves to promote growth and help prevent disease or pests from affecting the plant. Cutting back any broken stems will also encourage new growth to emerge from the base of the plant.
Propagation of Stapelia longidens N.E.Br.
Propagation of Stapelia longidens N.E.Br. is possible through various methods such as:
Seed Propagation
Propagation through seeds is the most common method for Stapelia longidens N.E.Br. The seeds are small and can be sown in well-draining soil mix under partial shade. It takes around 2-4 weeks for the seeds to germinate. Once the seeds have germinated, they can be transplanted to larger pots and grown in full sun.
Cutting Propagation
Propagation of Stapelia longidens N.E.Br. through cuttings is also possible. Cuttings can be taken from the stem of the plant and allowed to dry for a day or two. After drying, the cuttings can be dipped into rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining soil mix. Rooting of cuttings takes around 3-4 weeks and growth can be observed in around 6-8 weeks.
Division Propagation
Propagation of Stapelia longidens N.E.Br. through division is possible but not commonly used. It involves separating the offsets from the mother plant and planting them in a well-draining soil mix. This method is best done during repotting time, and care should be taken to ensure that the roots are not damaged during separation.
Disease and Pest Management for Stapelia longidens N.E.Br.
As a succulent plant, Stapelia longidens N.E.Br. is susceptible to certain diseases and pests. Here are some common issues that may affect this plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Root rot: Overwatering or poor drainage can cause root rot in Stapelia longidens N.E.Br. This disease can be identified by black, mushy roots and a foul smell coming from the soil. To manage this issue, remove the plant from the soil, cut away the affected roots, let it dry out for a few days, repot it in dry soil, and reduce watering.
Fungal diseases: Stapelia longidens N.E.Br. can be prone to fungal diseases like powdery mildew and rust. Symptoms include white or gray spots on leaves, yellowing, and distorted growth. To manage fungal diseases, remove the affected parts of the plant, increase air circulation, and use a fungicide.
Pests
Mealybugs: These insects look like small, white, cottony masses on the plant. They suck sap from the plant and can cause yellowing, wilting, and stunted growth. To manage mealybugs, wipe them off with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or treat the plant with neem oil.
Spider mites: These tiny insects create webs on the plant and suck sap, causing yellowing, leaf drop, and stunted growth. To manage spider mites, wash the plant with a strong stream of water, increase humidity, and use an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Scale insects: These insects look like small, brown or black bumps on the plant. They suck sap and can cause yellowing, wilting, and stunted growth. To manage scale insects, remove them by hand or use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. You can also introduce natural predators like ladybugs or use a systemic insecticide.
By monitoring your Stapelia longidens N.E.Br. for diseases and pests, and taking steps to manage any issues that arise, you can help keep this unique plant healthy and thriving.
