Overview
Stapelia patula Willd. var. longirostris N.E.Br. is a species of succulent plant that belongs to the Apocynaceae family. Commonly known as Long-nosed carrion flower, this plant is native to the southern and eastern parts of Africa, particularly in Namibia, Botswana, and South Africa. It is a highly valued plant for ornamental and medicinal purposes due to its unique and striking appearance, as well as its medicinal properties.
Appearance
The Long-nosed carrion flower is a medium-sized succulent plant with thick, triangular stems that grow up to 30 cm tall. It forms dense clumps of upright stems that are light to deep green in color, and are covered in fine, white hairs. The stems are easy to recognize, with four to six triangular ridges that run vertically along the stem. The plant produces large, unique star-shaped flowers that possess a powerful carrion-like odor, hence its name 'carrion flower'. The flower is fleshy and has five petals that are yellowish-brown in color, and covered in hair that gives it a velvety appearance. The plant blooms from late spring to early summer, and the flowers attract flies and other insects for pollination.
Uses
The Long-nosed carrion flower has several uses. It is highly prized as an ornamental plant for its striking appearance and unique carrion-like scent. It is also used as a medicinal plant in traditional African medicine. The plant is believed to contain compounds that are effective in treating a range of ailments, including snake bites, headaches, and stomach problems. The sap of the plant is used externally to treat skin disorders and to relieve pain. It is also a popular plant for attracting insects to pollinate gardens due to its carrion-like fragrance.
Cultivation
The Long-nosed carrion flower is a hardy plant that is easy to grow in well-draining soil, under full sun or partial shade. It requires minimal watering, and can thrive in hot and dry conditions. The plant is propagated through stem cuttings, and it reaches maturity in about two to three years. Pests and diseases are generally not a problem, making it a low-maintenance plant. The Long-nosed carrion flower is best grown as a solitary plant or in small groups, as it does not tolerate overcrowding.
Light Conditions
The Stapelia patula var. longirostris N.E.Br. plant is a succulent and requires bright indirect sunlight to grow properly. The plant can tolerate direct sunlight but too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves to burn. So, it is best to place the plant in a spot where it can get indirect sunlight for most of the day or in a bright shade.
Temperature Requirements
The Stapelia patula var. longirostris N.E.Br. plant is a warm-weather succulent that thrives in hot temperatures. The plant requires a temperature range of 70-85 F (21- 30 C) to grow well. Temperatures below 60 F (15 C) can kill the plant, so it is essential to protect the plant from cold drafts and frost.
Soil Requirements
The Stapelia patula var. longirostris N.E.Br. plant requires well-draining soil to grow correctly. The soil should be rich in organic matter and have a pH range of 6.0-7.5. It is recommended to use cactus or succulent potting mix to grow the plant. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged to prevent root rot. Adding perlite, sand or gravel to the soil mix can help with drainage.
Cultivation Method
Stapelia patula Willd. var. longirostris N.E.Br. can be cultivated both indoors and outdoors. If you are planting the succulent indoors, ensure that you place it near a window where it can receive enough sunlight. The plant thrives in warm temperatures ranging from 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit.
When planting outdoors, ensure that you select a well-draining soil. Plant the succulent in a location that receives partial sunlight as it cannot tolerate extreme heat. Additionally, ensure that the plant is protected from strong winds.
Watering Needs
As with most succulents, watering should be done sparingly. Water the plant only when the soil is completely dry. Overwatering is not advisable as it leads to root rot. During the winter season, reduce the frequency of watering to once a month.
Fertilization
Stapelia patula Willd. var. longirostris N.E.Br. does not require frequent fertilization. However, you can add a slow-release fertilizer to the soil once or twice a year before the growing season. Alternatively, you can apply a water-soluble fertilizer every two or three weeks during the active growing season.
Pruning
Pruning is not essential for this succulent. However, you can remove any dead or brown leaves to maintain its appearance. You can also remove any damaged or diseased stems to prevent the spread of disease.
Propagation Methods of Stapelia Patula Willd. var. Longirostris N.E.Br.
Propagating the Stapelia patula Willd. var. longirostris N.E.Br. is quite easy, as the plant can be grown from seeds, cuttings, or offsets.
Propagation Using Seeds
Seeds from the Stapelia patula Willd. var. longirostris N.E.Br. can be harvested from the pods once they have ripened and have started to split open. The seeds should be left to dry for a few days before sowing.
It is recommended to use a well-draining soil mix and to sow the seeds in a shallow container. The seeds should be covered with a layer of soil, and the container should be placed in a warm, bright, and ventilated location.
The seeds should germinate within 2-4 weeks, after which they can be transplanted to individual pots.
Propagation Using Cuttings
Cuttings from the Stapelia patula Willd. var. longirostris N.E.Br. can be taken from healthy, mature plants during the growing season. The cuttings should be around 10 cm long.
The end of the cutting should be left to dry for a day or two before planting in a well-draining soil mix. The cutting should be watered sparingly until roots have formed.
It is recommended to place the cutting in a warm, bright, and ventilated location until roots have formed. Once roots have formed, the cutting can be transplanted to a larger pot.
Propagation Using Offsets
The Stapelia patula Willd. var. longirostris N.E.Br. can produce offsets or clones of the parent plant. These offsets can be removed and replanted in a separate pot once they have started to grow roots.
It is recommended to use a well-draining soil mix and to plant the offsets in a separate pot with appropriate potting mix. The offsets should be watered sparingly until they have established in their new environment.
Disease and Pest Management for Stapelia patula Willd. var. longirostris N.E.Br.
Stapelia patula Willd. var. longirostris N.E.Br. is a succulent plant that can be affected by diseases and pests. Here are some common problems with their management:
Diseases
Stapelia patula Willd. var. longirostris N.E.Br. can be affected by fungal diseases such as stem rot and leaf spot. These diseases are caused by overwatering, high humidity, and poor air circulation. Prevention is key to avoiding these diseases. It is recommended to water the plant sparingly and to ensure proper air circulation. If these diseases are suspected, the infected parts should be removed, and the plant should be placed in a drier location with better air circulation.
Pests
The plant can also be affected by pests such as mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can cause damage to the leaves, flowers, and stems of the plant. To manage these pests, it is important to regularly inspect the plant and remove any visible pests with a soft brush or cloth. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can also be used to treat the plant. However, these treatments should be used cautiously and according to the directions to avoid damaging the plant.
