Origin
Stapelia pillansii N.E.Br. var. fontinalis Nel is a succulent plant that belongs to the family Apocynaceae. It is native to South Africa, particularly in the Northern Cape Province and parts of Namibia.
Common Names
Stapelia pillansii N.E.Br. var. fontinalis Nel is also known by several other common names, including Bearded Starfish Flower, Taffy Flower, and Carrion Flower. The latter name is due to the plant's ability to attract flies with its foul-smelling flowers, which then serve as pollinators.
Uses
Stapelia pillansii N.E.Br. var. fontinalis Nel is often grown as an ornamental plant due to its unique and striking appearance. It is also used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including snakebites, headaches, and stomach issues.
General Appearance
Stapelia pillansii N.E.Br. var. fontinalis Nel is a low-growing, clump-forming succulent that can grow up to 6 inches tall and 12 inches wide. Its stems are green and covered in tiny hairs, and its leaves are reduced to small, triangular shapes. The plant produces large, star-shaped flowers that can grow up to 6 inches in diameter. The flowers are typically yellow or orange and covered in hairs that resemble taffy, hence the common name Taffy Flower. When the flowers are in bloom, they emit a strong odor that resembles rotting meat, which attracts flies for pollination.
Growth conditions for Stapelia pillansii N.E.Br. var. fontinalis Nel
Stapelia pillansii N.E.Br. var. fontinalis Nel is a succulent plant that requires specific growth conditions to thrive. Below are the growth conditions required for this plant:
Light requirements
This plant thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. It should be placed in a location where it can receive at least six hours of sunlight per day. However, direct sunlight should be avoided as it can cause the plant to become sunburned.
Temperature requirements
Stapelia pillansii N.E.Br. var. fontinalis Nel requires a warm and dry environment to grow successfully. The plant should be kept in an area with a temperature range of 60-80°F (15-27°C). Avoid exposing the plant to temperatures below 50°F (10°C) as it can cause damage to the plant.
Soil requirements
This plant requires well-draining soil that mimics its natural habitat. The soil should be a mix of sand and perlite or pumice. The plant's roots should not be kept in soggy soil as it can cause root rot. When watering the plant, water it thoroughly and wait until the soil is dry before watering again.
Cultivation Methods
Stapelia pillansii N.E.Br. var. fontinalis Nel requires well-draining soil that is nutrient-rich. The plant should be grown in a bright, sunny location with temperatures ranging between 60-80°F. It can also grow well in partial shade, but avoid placing it in full shade. This plant is typically propagated through stem cuttings and should be replanted every two years, or as needed.
Watering Needs
Stapelia pillansii N.E.Br. var. fontinalis Nel requires infrequent watering. Water the plant deeply about once a week, but avoid over-watering, which can lead to root rot. The soil should dry completely between waterings, particularly during the winter dormant season. During the growing season, water the plant more frequently, but again, be mindful of not over-watering.
Fertilization
It is recommended to fertilize Stapelia pillansii N.E.Br. var. fontinalis Nel once a month during the growing season, which is typically from spring to early fall. Use a high-quality fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10, and dilute to half or quarter strength to avoid over-fertilization. Do not fertilize during the winter dormant season.
Pruning
Pruning is generally not needed for Stapelia pillansii N.E.Br. var. fontinalis Nel, as it grows slowly and does not require much maintenance. However, if the plant becomes too large, or if there are any diseased or dead branches, use sharp scissors to trim those off. Also, to encourage branching, trim off the tips of the stems after flowering.
Propagation of Stapelia Pillansii N.E.Br. var. Fontinalis Nel
Stapelia Pillansii N.E.Br. var. Fontinalis Nel, commonly known as the Carrion Flower, is a succulent plant native to South Africa. The plant is usually grown as an ornamental plant due to its unique and attractive flowers that smell like rotting meat. Propagation of the plant is possible through the following methods:
Propagation through Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings are the most common method of propagating Stapelia Pillansii. The cuttings should be taken from a healthy plant, and the cut should be made at an angle to increase the surface area and promote root growth. The cuttings should then be left to dry for a few days to allow the wound to callous over and prevent rotting of the stem. Once the wound has dried, the cutting can be planted in a well-draining soil mix. It should be watered sparingly to prevent rotting, and placed in a bright, warm location to encourage growth.
Propagation through Seeds
Propagation of Stapelia Pillansii can also be achieved through the use of seeds. The seeds should be collected from mature fruit, and cleaned to remove any pulp or debris. The seeds should then be placed in a well-draining soil mix, and watered lightly. The pot should be covered to create a humid environment that will promote germination. The seeds take roughly one to two weeks to germinate, and once they have sprouted, should be moved to a brighter location to continue growing.
Disease Management for Stapelia pillansii N.E.Br. var. fontinalis Nel
Stapelia pillansii N.E.Br. var. fontinalis Nel is generally resistant to diseases and can withstand harsh conditions. However, these plants may occasionally develop diseases if they are exposed to extreme temperatures, over-watering, or infestations of insects. Below are some of the common diseases that may affect this plant and ways to manage them:
Root Rot
Root rot is one of the most common diseases that affect Stapelia pillansii N.E.Br. var. fontinalis Nel. When this plant is overwatered, the roots can rot, become weak, and eventually die. To manage this disease, it is important to ensure that the soil is well-drained and that the plant is not overwatered. If this disease has already affected the plant, it is best to remove the affected parts and repot the plant in a new container with fresh soil.
Gray Mold
Gray mold is a fungal disease that can affect Stapelia pillansii N.E.Br. var. fontinalis Nel. This disease can cause the leaves to wilt and turn brown, and it can also cause stem rot. To prevent this disease, it is important to make sure that the plant is not exposed to high humidity levels for an extended period. To manage this disease, it is best to remove the infected parts and keep the plant in a well-ventilated area with good air circulation.
Pest Management for Stapelia pillansii N.E.Br. var. fontinalis Nel
In addition to diseases, Stapelia pillansii N.E.Br. var. fontinalis Nel may also be affected by pests. Below are some of the common pests that may attack this plant and ways to manage them:
Mealy Bugs
Mealy bugs are common pests that may attack Stapelia pillansii N.E.Br. var. fontinalis Nel. These pests suck the sap from the plant, causing the leaves to wither and turn brown. To manage this pest, it is best to wipe the affected parts with a damp cloth. You can also use insecticidal soap to control the pest.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are also common pests that may attack Stapelia pillansii N.E.Br. var. fontinalis Nel. These pests cause the leaves to turn yellow and appear dusty. To manage this pest, it is best to dust the plant with neem oil or a mild insecticide. You can also prune the affected parts of the plant and dispose of them properly.
