Overview
Stapelia nouhuysii E.Phillips is a succulent plant that belongs to the family Apocynaceae. It is native to South Africa and is commonly known as the Carrion flower or Zulu Giant.
General appearance
The plant has a distinctive appearance with its large, star-shaped flowers and succulent stems that grow up to 30cm long. The leaves are small and thin, as they fall off after the plant reaches maturity. The flowers are rather fleshy, greyish-brown and resemble the texture of a cut steak or dead animal. Typically, the flowers grow up to 25 cm in diameter and can be quite striking. The petals have a velvety texture and are arranged in a star shape, giving them a dramatic appearance.
Common Names
The Carrion flower is widely known as one of the smelliest succulents. These plants attract flies and beetles when a bunch of small papillae located on some of the flowers produce odors similar to dead animals. The flies come to the flowers thinking they have found a meal, but they're fooled because there is no real food to try. Another name for the plant is Zulu Giant, which refers to the native South African tribe and the size of the flower.
Uses
Stapelia nouhuysii E.Phillips is often grown as an ornamental plant because of its unusual flowers. The flowers can last several days when given adequate light and moisture, and the plant also does well as a houseplant because it is easy to grow. Aside from being a decorative plant, some locals use it in traditional medicines for treating skin problems, fractures, and fever. However, clinical studies to support the supposed health benefits of Stapelia nouhuysii E.Phillips are scarce.
Light Requirements
Stapelia nouhuysii E.Phillips requires bright but indirect sunlight to grow. It is recommended to place the plant near a south-facing window or provide it with 4-6 hours of sunlight per day. Direct sunlight can be harmful to the plant and cause the leaves to burn.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Stapelia nouhuysii E.Phillips is between 60-80°F (15-27°C). The plant can tolerate temperatures as low as 50°F (10°C) but cannot survive frost or freezing temperatures. It is best to keep the plant in a warm and humid environment with adequate ventilation to prevent any fungal diseases.
Soil Requirements
Stapelia nouhuysii E.Phillips prefers well-draining and sandy soil. It is recommended to use cactus or succulent soil mixtures mixed with perlite or coarse sand. The plant can tolerate some drought and does not require frequent watering. It is important to allow the soil to completely dry out between waterings and avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot and other plant diseases.
Cultivation Methods
Stapelia nouhuysii E.Phillips is an easy-care succulent that is perfect for novice gardeners. It can be grown indoors or outdoors in areas with warm temperatures and partial shade. The plant thrives in well-draining, sandy soil that is slightly acidic.
Propagation of Stapelia nouhuysii E.Phillips can be done through cuttings or by planting seeds during the growing season. Germination takes about a week, and the seedlings should be transplanted after they have grown at least two true leaves.
Watering Needs
Stapelia nouhuysii E.Phillips is drought-tolerant and should not be overwatered. The plant should be watered deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Watering once every one to two weeks during the growing season is sufficient. During the dormant period, which occurs in the winter months, the plant should be watered sparingly.
Fertilization
Stapelia nouhuysii E.Phillips does not require frequent fertilization. A balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer can be applied once every two to three months during the growing season. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant period.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Stapelia nouhuysii E.Phillips. However, dead or damaged stems should be removed promptly to prevent the spread of disease. The plant can be shaped by pinching off the tips of the stems, which promotes bushier growth.
Propagation of Stapelia nouhuysii E.Phillips
Stapelia nouhuysii E.Phillips, commonly known as Carrion Flower, can be propagated from both seeds and stem cuttings.
Propagation from seeds
The process of propagating from seeds is relatively easy. The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil in small pots or trays. The seeds must be kept moist but not waterlogged, and they should be placed in a warm and bright location, away from direct sunlight. It takes around two to four weeks for the seeds to germinate. Once the seedlings become large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into the desired location.
Propagation from stem cuttings
Propagation from stem cuttings is also possible. The stem cuttings must be around 4-5 inches long, and they should be taken from a mature and healthy plant. The cuttings should be left to dry for a few days in a cool and dry place, which will help prevent any potential fungal infections. Once they have dried, the cuttings can be placed in well-draining soil, with their cut end dipped in rooting hormone. They should be kept in a warm and bright location, away from direct sunlight and watered sparingly. It takes around four to eight weeks for the cuttings to establish roots and begin to grow.
Disease and Pest Management for Stapelia nouhuysii E.Phillips
Stapelia nouhuysii E.Phillips is a succulent plant that might experience diseases and pests. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and how to manage them:
Diseases:
1. Stem rot:
Stem rot is a common disease in stapelias that causes the stem to turn black and mushy. This disease is usually caused by overwatering and poor drainage. To manage the disease, it is essential to reduce watering and improve drainage.
2. Leaf spot:
This disease causes brown spots on the leaves and is usually caused by fungal infections. To manage the disease, prune away any infected leaves and ensure that the plant is not overcrowded and has enough ventilation.
3. Powdery mildew:
Powdery mildew appears as white powdery spots on the plant's surface and is caused by fungal infections. The infected plant will have stunted growth. To manage this disease, apply fungicides or neem oil to the infected areas.
Pests:
1. Mealybugs:
Mealybugs appear as white cottony spots or masses on the plant. They suck the sap from the plant, causing it to weaken and eventually die. To manage mealybugs, wipe the plant with rubbing alcohol or insecticidal soap.
2. Spider mites:
Spider mites are tiny pests that appear as spider webs on the plant. They suck the sap from the plant, leading to the leaves turning gray or brown and eventually falling off. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a fungicide or insecticide.
3. Scale insects:
Scale insects appear as small, immobile bumps on the plant. They suck the sap from the plant, causing it to wilt and die. To manage scale insects, apply insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to the infected areas.
Regular inspection of the plant will help detect any signs of diseases or pests, and timely management will prevent their spread to other plants. Also, maintaining an appropriate temperature, good air circulation, and avoiding overwatering will reduce the chances of pest and disease infestation.
