Origin of Stapelia variegata L. var. brevicornis N.E.Br.
Stapelia variegata L. var. brevicornis N.E.Br. belongs to the Apocynaceae family and is native to southern Africa, specifically in the countries of Namibia and South Africa.
Common Names
It is commonly known as the Zulu Giant Starfish, Short-horned Carrion Plant, and Black-eyed Susan due to its unique and eye-catching appearance.
Uses
Despite its unattractive common names, Stapelia variegata is a plant with many uses. The plant is typically used for medicinal purposes as it is believed to possess anticancer activity and is used as a remedy for dysentery, wounds, and snake bites. In addition, the flowers of Stapelia variegata are known for their strong and unpleasant odor, which attracts flies, beetles, and other insects. As a result, the plant is often used as a natural pest control solution to keep unwanted insects out of gardens and other outdoor spaces.
General Appearance
Stapelia variegata L. var. brevicornis N.E.Br. is a succulent perennial plant that grows up to 45 cm tall. The plant has a unique, star-shaped appearance, with 5 pointed petals that are usually hairless, greenish-white, and covered with purplish-red dots or stripes. The plant's stem is pale green to grey-green, usually with five or six ribs, and is covered in small furrows. The plant's flowers, which usually appear in late summer or early fall, are characterized by their foul smell and are often blackish-purple, reddish-brown, or yellow in color.
Light Requirements:
The Stapelia variegata L. var. brevicornis N.E.Br. plant requires bright, indirect sunlight. It is essential for the plant to avoid direct sunlight since it is known to cause scorching of the leaves. You can place the plant in a north-facing window in the morning sun, or a south-facing window in the afternoon.
Temperature Requirements:
The plant grows best in temperatures ranging from 60°F to 85°F (15°C to 29°C). It is a tropical plant, adapted to warm temperatures with high humidity levels. The plant can tolerate temperature fluctuations, but it does not grow well in temperatures below 50°F (10°C). Therefore, it is advisable to keep the plant in a warm environment.
Soil Requirements:
The Stapelia variegata L. var. brevicornis N.E.Br. plant grows well in well-draining soil. It requires a soil mixture that is rich in nutrients and has good drainage. You can either buy premade cactus soil or mix equal parts of perlite, sand, and potting soil. Ensure the soil has good drainage to prevent waterlogging since the plant is susceptible to root rot.
Cultivation Methods:
Stapelia variegata L. var. brevicornis N.E.Br. is a succulent plant species that grows well in warm temperatures. These plants can be propagated through stem cutting or seeds. If you're propagating through cuttings, make sure to let the cuttings dry for a few days before planting them to prevent rotting. These plants prefer well-draining soil mixed with sand or gravel, and they grow well in pots or baskets.
Watering Needs:
These plants prefer less water than most plants, and they don't like sitting in soggy soil. Water the plants only when the soil is dry to the touch. When watering, make sure the soil is soaked through but not overly wet. When the weather is cooler, reduce the watering to once a month or less.
Fertilization:
These plants don't need much fertilization. Adding a small amount of slow-release fertilizer once a year is sufficient. Over-fertilizing can cause root burn and stunted growth.
Pruning:
Stapelia variegata L. var. brevicornis N.E.Br. doesn't require much pruning. However, in case of any dead or dying branches, they should be trimmed as soon as possible. Also, cut off any dead flowers to prevent the plant from wasting energy on them. By removing the dead flowers, the plant can focus on producing new blooms.
Propagation of Stapelia variegata L. var. brevicornis N.E.Br.
Stapelia variegata L. var. brevicornis N.E.Br. can easily be propagated vegetatively. The plant can be propagated by stem cuttings, seeds, and division of root shoots.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Propagation by stem cuttings is an easy method for propagating Stapelia variegata L. var. brevicornis N.E.Br. Choose healthy stems and make a clean cut below the node using a sharp knife or pruning shears. Allow the cutting to dry for a few days before planting in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and in a warm environment until you notice new growth.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation by seeds is straightforward, but it requires more patience and time to see results. Sow the seeds in well-draining soil and place the pot in a warm and bright location. The seeds should germinate within a week or two. Once the seedlings are large enough, they can be transplanted into individual pots and treated like mature plants.
Propagation by Division of Root Shoots
Propagation by division of root shoots is another easy method that involves separating the plant's rooted offsets and planting them in new containers. Carefully remove the offset from the parent plant and plant it in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and in a warm environment until you notice new growth.
Disease and Pest Management for Stapelia variegata L. var. brevicornis N.E.Br.
Stapelia variegata L. var. brevicornis N.E.Br., also known as the Starfish Flower or the Carrion Plant, is a succulent that is native to southern Africa. While this plant is relatively low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to certain pests and diseases.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affects Stapelia variegata is root rot. This disease occurs when the soil is consistently moist, and it can cause the roots of the plant to become black and mushy. To prevent root rot, make sure to use well-draining soil and only water the plant when the soil is completely dry.
Another disease that can affect Stapelia variegata is leaf spot. This disease is caused by a fungus and can cause the leaves of the plant to turn yellow or brown. To prevent leaf spot, avoid getting water on the leaves of the plant and make sure to keep the plant in a well-ventilated area.
Common Pests
One of the most common pests that can affect Stapelia variegata is mealybugs. These small insects look like white cottony masses and can be found on the leaves and stems of the plant. To get rid of mealybugs, use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove the insects from the plant.
Aphids are another common pest that can affect Stapelia variegata. These small insects can be found on the new growth of the plant and can cause the leaves to curl. To get rid of aphids, use a mixture of water and dish soap to spray the plant.
Pest and Disease Management
To manage pests and diseases on Stapelia variegata, it is important to first identify the problem and then take appropriate action. If the plant is affected by a disease, remove any infected leaves or stems and make sure to reduce the amount of water the plant receives.
If the plant is affected by pests, use natural remedies such as rubbing alcohol or water and dish soap to remove the insects from the plant. It is important to avoid using chemical pesticides on Stapelia variegata, as these can harm the plant and the beneficial insects that live in the soil.
By following these pest and disease management tips, you can help keep your Stapelia variegata healthy and thriving for years to come.
