Overview
Stapelia schinzii A.Berger & Schltr. var. angolensis Kers. is a unique succulent plant that belongs to the family Apocynaceae. This plant is indigenous to Angola, where it grows in sandy and stony soils in semi-arid regions.
Common Names
This plant is commonly known as the "Carrion Flower" or "Carrion Plant" due to its distinct odor that resembles the smell of rotten meat. This odor attracts flies that aid in the pollination of the plant.
Appearance
Stapelia schinzii A.Berger & Schltr. var. angolensis Kers. has fleshy, erect stems that branch out at the base and grow up to 10cm in height. The surface of the stems is covered with four-sided, mushroom-shaped tubercles that bear short, needle-like spines. The flowers of this plant emerge from the base of the stems and are star-shaped and yellow. The flowers are large, about 7 – 8 cm in diameter, and have overlapping petals that form a wavy margin.
Uses
The plant doesn't have any culinary or medicinal uses. However, it is an excellent addition to gardens as it is easy to care for and maintains its ornamental value throughout the year. This plant is perfect for growing in containers and can be incorporated into rockeries and succulent gardens.
Growth conditions for Stapelia schinzii A.Berger & Schltr. var. angolensis Kers
Light: This plant prefers bright, indirect light and can tolerate partial shade. However, it is essential to protect it from direct sunlight, especially during summer months. Too much exposure to direct sunlight can damage the plant and cause sunburn, which manifests as brown patches on the stem.
Temperature: Stapelia schinzii A.Berger & Schltr. var. angolensis Kers prefer warm temperatures ranging from 18-25°C. These plants can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°C but not for extended periods. During winter months, it is advisable to keep them in a room with a temperature above 13°C.
Soil: The ideal soil for Stapelia schinzii A.Berger & Schltr. var. angolensis Kers should be well-draining and slightly acidic with a pH of 5.5-7.5. Use a mixture of sand, perlite, and peat moss in equal proportions for optimal growth.
Water: During the active growing season, which is spring and summer, water the plant thoroughly and allow the soil to dry out slightly before the next watering. Be careful not to overwater the plant to prevent waterlogging, which can cause root rot. During winter, reduce watering to once a month as the plant goes into a dormant stage.
Fertilization: Fertilize Stapelia schinzii A.Berger & Schltr. var. angolensis Kers once a month during the growing season, using a cactus fertilizer diluted to half-strength. Do not fertilize during the dormant season.
Humidity: Stapelia schinzii A.Berger & Schltr. var. angolensis Kers do not require high humidity levels. Normal room humidity levels are sufficient for their growth.
Propagation: Propagation of Stapelia schinzii A.Berger & Schltr. var. angolensis Kers can be done by stem cuttings taken during the growing season. Allow the cuttings to callous over for a few days before planting them in well-draining soil.
Pests and diseases: These plants are susceptible to mealybugs and scale insects. Regularly inspect the plant for any sign of pests and treat them promptly. Overwatering can cause root rot and fungal infections, leading to the plant's death.
Cultivation
Stapelia schinzii A.Berger & Schltr. var. angolensis Kers is a succulent plant that requires well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight for optimal growth. It thrives in areas with temperatures between 50 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
The plant requires a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. When cultivating indoors, place the plant near south-facing windows to ensure it receives sufficient sunlight. Outdoors, place it in a spot with ample light, but not too much that it overheats the plant.
Stapelia schinzii A.Berger & Schltr. var. angolensis Kers is an ideal outdoor plant, especially in areas with mild winter climates. If cultivating indoors, provide a space with decent ventilation and airflow.
Watering Needs
Stapelia schinzii A.Berger & Schltr. var. angolensis Kers is a drought-tolerant plant that shouldn't be overwatered. The plant requires watering once every two weeks in the summer, and once every three to four weeks during the winter months.
When watering, ensure the soil is entirely dry before adding any water. Water deeply so that excess water drains out of the pot's bottom, as standing water in the soil can cause root rot.
Fertilization
Fertilization is essential for the growth and health of Stapelia schinzii A.Berger & Schltr. var. angolensis Kers. During the growing season, apply a balanced liquid fertilizer once a month to provide necessary nutrients.
To avoid any burning, ensure the fertilizer is diluted according to the manufacturer's instructions. Fertilizers without nitrogen are ideal for the plant's growth as they promote its blooming and hinders the shoot's growth.
Pruning
Stapelia schinzii A.Berger & Schltr. var. angolensis Kers requires minimal pruning. The plant tends to produce shoots on its own and can be propagated by taking cuttings and re-potting the trimmed portion.
If there are any dead or yellowing leaves or stems, it's best to remove them. Do cut back any dead shoots or blooms as they can attract pests, leading to a breeding ground for bacteria that affects other branches.
Propagation is an ideal method to control the plant's size and growth. Ensure the outer skin has hardened before cutting the stem, leaving behind a ring-like nub to promote quick drying and healing.
Propagation of Stapelia schinzii A.Berger & Schltr. var. angolensis Kers
Stapelia schinzii A.Berger & Schltr. var. angolensis Kers, commonly known as the Carrion Flower, is a succulent plant that produces star-shaped flowers that emit an odor similar to that of rotting flesh. This plant can be propagated from both seeds and stem cuttings.
Propagation from Seeds
The easiest way to propagate Stapelia schinzii var. angolensis is from seeds. The seeds of this plant can be sown in a well-draining soil mixture and kept in a warm, sunny location. It is important to not overwater the seeds, as they may rot. After a few weeks, the seeds will germinate, and small seedlings will appear.
Propagation from Stem Cuttings
To propagate Stapelia schinzii var. angolensis from stem cuttings, select a healthy stem with no signs of damage or disease. Using a clean, sharp knife, cut a section of the stem that is approximately four inches long. Allow the cut end of the stem to callus over for a few days before planting it in a well-draining soil mixture. Water the cutting sparingly, as overwatering can cause the cutting to rot. In a few weeks, the cutting will begin to grow roots and small new shoots.
Propagation of Stapelia schinzii var. angolensis can be a rewarding experience for gardeners and plant enthusiasts. By following these simple propagation methods, one can easily increase their collection of these fascinating plants.
Disease and Pest Management for Stapelia schinzii A.Berger & Schltr. var. angolensis Kers
Stapelia schinzii A.Berger & Schltr. var. angolensis Kers is a succulent plant that is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, certain problems may arise, and it is important to be aware of them and know how to manage them.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that can affect Stapelia schinzii A.Berger & Schltr. var. angolensis Kers is root rot, which is caused by overwatering the plant. Root rot typically shows up as yellowing or browning leaves, and the plant may start to wilt or droop. To manage this disease, you should remove any affected areas of the plant and improve drainage in the pot to prevent the plants from being waterlogged.
Another disease that can affect the plant is powdery mildew, which presents as white or grayish powdery spots that appear on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. This can be managed by spraying the plant with a fungicide that is approved for use on succulents.
Common Pests
One of the most common pests that affects Stapelia schinzii A.Berger & Schltr. var. angolensis Kers is mealybugs, which are small white insects that look like bits of cotton. They feed on plant sap, which can cause the plant to wilt or become stunted. They can be managed by washing them off the plant with a solution of water and dish soap or by using a pesticide that is safe for succulents.
Another pest that can affect the plant is spider mites, which are tiny, red or brown insects that feed on the leaves of the plant, causing them to turn yellow or brown. To manage spider mites, you can spray the plant with a solution of water and neem oil or use a pesticide that is safe for succulents.
Overall, maintaining a healthy environment for Stapelia schinzii A.Berger & Schltr. var. angolensis Kers is the best way to manage diseases and pests. Watering should be done sparingly, and the plant should be kept in a well-lit location, away from direct sunlight and heat. Any affected areas of the plant should be removed promptly to prevent the spread of disease.
