Origin
Stapelia pillansii N.E.Br. var. pillansii is a species of flowering plant that is native to southern Africa, specifically found in Zimbabwe, Botswana, and South Africa.
Common Names
Some of the common names that Stapelia pillansii N.E.Br. var. pillansii is commonly referred to as are Carrion Flower, Starfish Flower, African Starfish Flower, and Zulu Giant.
Appearance
Stapelia pillansii N.E.Br. var. pillansii is a succulent plant that has thick, fleshy stems that grow up to 60cm in length. The stems are angled, four-angled, and are covered with blue-green, triangular-shaped teeth. The plant produces distinctive, large flowers that have a distinct scent of rotting meat, which attracts flies who serve as the pollinators of the plant. The flowers are brown to dark red in color, sometimes with spots, and can reach up to 25cm in diameter.
Uses
Stapelia pillansii N.E.Br. var. pillansii doesn't have significant medicinal or nutritional uses. However, some people grow it for ornamental purposes, as it adds a unique flair to their garden. Some individuals find the plant's scent repulsive, while others are fascinated by the pollination process and find the plant's appearance intriguing. Also, Stapelia pillansii N.E.Br. var. pillansii is on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, as it is threatened by habitat loss, so horticulturalists have been cultivating this plant as a way to help preserve it.
Growth Conditions for Stapelia pillansii N.E.Br. var. pillansii
Light: This plant prefers bright, indirect light. It should not be exposed to direct sunlight, which may scorch the leaves. Windowsills that receive bright light but are protected by a sheer curtain are ideal for this plant.
Temperature: Stapelia pillansii var. pillansii requires warm temperatures to thrive. During the growing season, the optimal temperature range is between 70-85°F (21-29°C). During the winter months, the plant can tolerate lower temperatures between 50-60°F (10-16°C).
Soil: This plant requires a fast-draining soil mix that is slightly acidic. A mix of peat moss, sand, and perlite is ideal for this plant. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
Water: These plants do not require frequent watering and can tolerate some drought. Watering once a week during the growing season and less often during the winter months is sufficient. The soil should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent root rot.
Fertilizer: It is not necessary to fertilize Stapelia pillansii var. pillansii. However, feeding the plant monthly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer can help promote healthy growth.
Humidity: This plant is tolerant of low humidity levels, but higher humidity levels can help promote healthy growth. Placing a tray of water near the plant or misting the leaves can increase humidity levels.
Cultivation
Stapelia pillansii N.E.Br. var. pillansii is a succulent plant that can be grown both indoors and outdoors. For indoor cultivation, choose a location that receives bright, indirect sunlight. For outdoor cultivation, choose a spot that receives partial shade.
The plant prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. To enhance drainage, mix coarse sand or perlite into the soil.
Watering
Watering should be done sparingly to avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot. Allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again. In general, watering once every 10-14 days should suffice, adjusting for your location's moisture level and humidity. During the winter months, watering should be reduced even further.
When watering, aim to drench the soil thoroughly, allowing excess water to drain out of the pot's bottom holes. Avoid getting water on the leaves and stem, as this can cause the plant to rot.
Fertilization
Fertilization should be done during the growing season in the spring and summer months. Use a balanced, liquid plant fertilizer, diluted to half strength, every month, and make sure to apply it only when the soil is moist.
Avoid fertilizing during the winter months, as the plant is typically dormant during this time.
Pruning
Pruning is not generally needed for Stapelia pillansii N.E.Br. var. pillansii. However, if the plant has grown too large and is becoming overcrowded, you can remove outer stems near the base of the plant to keep it in check.
If the leaves and/or stems become yellow and wilt, those parts should be pruned to encourage new growth.
Deadheading flowers is also recommended to keep the plant looking tidy and to encourage future flowering.
Propagation Methods of Stapelia pillansii N.E.Br. var. pillansii
Stapelia pillansii N.E.Br. var. pillansii, commonly known as Carrion Flower, is a succulent plant that belongs to the Apocynaceae family. It can be propagated through various methods, as discussed below:
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings is the most common and easiest method of propagating Stapelia pillansii N.E.Br. var. pillansii. Cut a stem from the plant, making sure it is at least 3 inches long, and leave it to dry for a few days. Then, pot it into a well-draining soil mix and keep it in a warm and bright location. Water the cutting sparingly until it has established roots.
Seeds
If you wish to propagate Stapelia pillansii N.E.Br. var. pillansii from seeds, make sure to collect mature seeds from the plant. Sow the seeds in well-draining soil and keep the pot in a warm and bright location. Water the soil only when it dries out, and be patient as the seeds can take up to a few weeks to germinate.
Offsets
Offsets are small, new shoots that grow from the base of the plant. They can be carefully removed and potted into a well-draining soil mix, just like stem cuttings.
Regardless of the propagation method used, it is essential to ensure the newly propagated plant is kept in a warm and bright location and not overwatered. With the correct method and care, the propagated plant of Stapelia pillansii N.E.Br. var. pillansii will grow into a healthy and mature plant.
Disease and Pest Management of Stapelia pillansii N.E.Br. var. pillansii
Stapelia pillansii N.E.Br. var. pillansii is a succulent plant that may be susceptible to various diseases and pests. Here are some common problems and how to manage them:
Diseases
1. Root rot: Overwatering or poor drainage can cause root rot, which is a fungal disease that can lead to the death of the plant. To avoid this problem, water the plant moderately, allowing the soil to dry out between watering. If root rot has already occurred, remove the affected parts and allow the plant to dry out before repotting in fresh, well-draining soil.
2. Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that causes white powdery spots on the leaves. To prevent this problem, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation around the plant. If powdery mildew has already occurred, spray the plant with a fungicide solution.
Pests
1. Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, white insects that can suck the sap from the plant and cause stunted growth. To control mealybugs, spray the plant with a solution of dish soap and water or a insecticidal soap. Alternatively, wipe the plant with alcohol or remove the insects manually with a cotton swab.
2. Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny, red, and brown insects that feed on the plant, causing yellowish or brownish spots on the leaves. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a solution of water and dish soap or a miticide.
By following these disease and pest management tips, you can ensure that your Stapelia pillansii N.E.Br. var. pillansii remains healthy and beautiful.
