Overview
Stapelia schinzii A.Berger & Schltr. var. schinzii is a species of succulent plant in the family Apocynaceae. It is native to southern Africa and is also commonly known as Zulu giant.
Appearance
The plant has thick, four-angled, erect stems that can grow up to 20 centimeters tall, forming clumps. The stems are dark green and have small warts on the surface. The flowers emerge at the top of the stems and are up to 7 centimeters in diameter. The flowers have a star-like shape and are yellow with long, hairy fringes that hang down around the edges.
Uses
Stapelia schinzii A.Berger & Schltr. var. schinzii has no known medicinal or culinary uses. However, it is commonly grown as an ornamental plant because of its unique, star-shaped flowers. It is also popular among collectors of succulent plants.
Cultivation
Stapelia schinzii A.Berger & Schltr. var. schinzii is a low-maintenance plant. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. It can tolerate drought but should be watered occasionally during the growing season. The plant can be propagated by stem cuttings, which should be allowed to dry out for a few days before being planted in soil.
Light Requirements
Stapelia schinzii A.Berger & Schltr. var. schinzii requires bright but indirect light to grow. Direct sunlight can damage the plant’s foliage. Therefore, it is best to place the plant in an east or west-facing window where it can receive a few hours of morning or evening sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Stapelia schinzii A.Berger & Schltr. var. schinzii prefers warm temperatures between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). It cannot withstand frost and requires protection from cold drafts. During winter, it may benefit from a slight decrease in temperature, but it should not be exposed to temperatures below 10°C (50°F).
Soil Requirements
Stapelia schinzii A.Berger & Schltr. var. schinzii requires well-draining soil that retains some moisture. A mix of 50% commercial cactus soil and 50% coarse sand is ideal. The soil should be kept slightly moist, but the plant cannot tolerate being waterlogged.
Other Growth Conditions
Stapelia schinzii A.Berger & Schltr. var. schinzii prefers low to moderate humidity levels and a slightly acidic soil pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Additionally, the plant benefits from occasional fertilization during its growing season in spring and summer. It is a slow-growing plant, and therefore does not require frequent re-potting.
Cultivation Methods
Stapelia schinzii A.Berger & Schltr. var. schinzii plants prefer to grow in a warm and dry climate where the temperature ranges between 60-80°F. These succulents can be grown outdoors in full sun or indoors in a bright location with partial shade. The plant requires well-drained soil that is rich in organic nutrients. You can propagate the plant by cuttings or seeds.
Watering Needs
Stapelia schinzii A.Berger & Schltr. var. schinzii plants do not require much water and must be allowed to dry out between watering. Overwatering may lead to root rot or fungal disease. During the active growing season, water once a week, but reduce watering to once every two weeks during the dormant season. Always water at the base of the plant to prevent water from gathering in the leaves and causing rot.
Fertilization
Stapelia schinzii A.Berger & Schltr. var. schinzii plants require minimal fertilization, and too much may lead to poor growth or poor-quality flowers. You can fertilize the plant during the active growing season. Use a balanced 20-20-20 fertilizer diluted to half strength and apply it once every three weeks. During the dormant season, reduce fertilization to once every two months or not at all.
Pruning
Stapelia schinzii A.Berger & Schltr. var. schinzii plants do not require regular pruning. However, you may pinch back new growth to encourage branching and promote a bushier appearance. Remove any dead or decaying leaves or stems immediately to prevent the spread of disease.
Propagation of Stapelia schinzii A.Berger & Schltr. var. schinzii
Stapelia schinzii A.Berger & Schltr. var. schinzii, also known as African starfish cactus, is a popular succulent plant among gardeners due to its beautiful star-shaped flowers and low maintenance requirements. Propagating this plant is relatively easy, and it can be done through several methods, including:
1. Stem cuttings
One of the easiest methods of propagating Stapelia schinzii A.Berger & Schltr. var. schinzii is through stem cuttings. To do this, select a healthy stem that is not flowering and cut it close to the soil level using a sharp and sterilized knife or scissors. Leave the cutting to dry for a few days until the cut end forms a callus. Once the callus has formed, plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix, water it sparingly, and place it in a bright, indirect light.
2. Leaf cuttings
Another method of propagating Stapelia schinzii A.Berger & Schltr. var. schinzii is through leaf cuttings. However, this method is not as reliable as stem cuttings as not all leaves will produce roots. To propagate using this method, select a plump and healthy leaf and gently twist it off the stem. Allow the leaf to dry for a few days until the cut end forms a callus. Plant the leaf in a well-draining soil mix, placing the callus end into the soil, leaving the leaf upright. Water sparingly and place the plant in a bright, indirect light.
3. Division
Stapelia schinzii A.Berger & Schltr. var. schinzii can also be propagated through division. This method involves separating the plant into smaller sections. Carefully remove the plant from its pot and gently separate the plant into sections, making sure that each division has well-developed roots and stems. Repot the divisions into separate containers, water sparingly and place in a bright, indirect light.
Using any of these propagation methods, it is possible to grow new plants from a mature African starfish cactus quickly and efficiently.
Disease and Pest Management for Stapelia schinzii A.Berger & Schltr. var. schinzii
Stapelia schinzii A.Berger & Schltr. var. schinzii, also known as the Carrion Plant, is a succulent that is native to Africa. Like any plant, it is susceptible to a range of diseases and pests that can affect its growth and health. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect this plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
One of the most common diseases that can affect the Carrion Plant is root rot. This can be caused by overwatering or poor drainage, and can manifest as a soft, mushy stem or roots. To prevent root rot, ensure that the plant is not sitting in standing water, and allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
Another disease that can affect Stapelia schinzii is powdery mildew. This looks like a white powdery coating on the leaves, and can be caused by overwatering or high humidity. To manage powdery mildew, ensure that the plant has adequate air circulation, and avoid getting water on the leaves.
Pests
One of the most common pests that can affect the Carrion Plant is mealybugs. These small white insects can be found on the leaves and stems, and can cause leaves to yellow and drop off. To manage mealybugs, use a cotton swab or q-tip dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove them.
Another pest that can affect Stapelia schinzii is spider mites. These tiny insects can be found on the underside of leaves, and can cause yellow, stippled leaves. To manage spider mites, use a spray of water to dislodge them, or use insecticidal soap.
In general, a healthy plant is more resistant to disease and pest issues. Ensuring that the Carrion Plant has adequate sunlight, well-draining soil, and appropriate water will go a long way in preventing problems.
