Overview
Stapelia vetula Masson var. simsii (Haw.) N.E.Br. is a succulent plant that belongs to the family of Apocynaceae. It is commonly known as the Carrion Flower, as its flowers produce an odor similar to that of rotting flesh.Origin
The Stapelia vetula Masson var. simsii (Haw.) N.E.Br. is native to South Africa, where it can be found growing in dry, rocky areas. It is a drought-tolerant plant that has adapted to arid environments, making it an ideal plant for xeriscaping.Appearance
The Carrion Flower plant has a sprawling growth habit and can reach up to 30 cm tall and wide. Its leaves are thick, fleshy, and triangular and can grow up to 5 cm in length. The plant's stems are green and covered with small bumps or tubercles. Its flowers are the most distinctive feature of this plant, and they can be up to 7 cm in diameter. They are star-shaped, with fleshy, dark-red petals that are covered in short hairs.Uses
The Carrion Flower plant is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in rock gardens or containers. The plant's unique flower attracts pollinators such as flies and beetles, making it an excellent addition to any pollinator garden. Some cultures use the plant as a traditional herbal remedy for treating stomach upsets and other ailments. Its fleshy stems and leaves contain a milky sap that can cause skin irritation, so caution is advised when handling the plant.Light Requirements
Stapelia vetula Masson var. simsii (Haw.) N.E.Br. thrives in bright light conditions. In its natural habitat, it grows under direct sunlight, so it is best to keep it in a place where it can receive at least four hours of direct sunlight daily. However, be sure to protect it from the harsh afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorching.
Temperature Requirements
This plant species prefers warm temperatures that range between 68°F- 95°F. It is essential to ensure that the temperature does not go below 60°F as this may harm or kill the plant. Therefore, it is best to keep it indoors in a warm place where temperatures do not fluctuate too much and remain within its preferred range.
Soil Requirements
Stapelia vetula Masson var. simsii (Haw.) N.E.Br. prefers well-drained soil. A succulent and cactus mix soil type is best for the plant. This type of mix provides the proper drainage and soil aeration that help prevent root rot due to overwatering. It is also essential to ensure that the soil is slightly acidic with a pH level between 6.0 to 6.5.
Cultivation Methods
Stapelia vetula Masson var. simsii (Haw.) N.E.Br. is a succulent perennial plant that does well in well-draining soil mixtures. When planting, use sandy or gravely soil with some organic matter such as peat moss. You can plant this species both indoors and outdoors. Ensure that you place the plant in a sunny spot for a minimum of six hours daily. A temperature range of 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal for this plant.
Watering Needs
Watering Stapelia vetula Masson var. simsii (Haw.) N.E.Br. is essential, but overwatering can lead to root rot. Allow the soil to dry before watering the plant again. This species of succulent does not need to be watered too often. During the dry season, which is usually in the winter, water the plant every month. In the growing season, water the plant once a week, depending on the humidity levels in your area.
Fertilization
Applying fertilizer to your Stapelia vetula Masson var. simsii (Haw.) N.E.Br. plant is important for its growth. Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer every four weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce fertilizing during the winter season. Use half of the recommended amount to avoid over-fertilizing, which can be harmful to the plant.
Pruning
Pruning Stapelia vetula Masson var. simsii (Haw.) N.E.Br. is not necessary since the plant is a non-vining succulent. However, you can remove any yellow or dried leaves. If you notice any damaged or diseased portions of the stem, clip them away using a sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears. Ensure that you wear safety gloves before pruning to avoid being punctured by the spines on the plant.
Propagating Stapelia Vetula Masson var. Simsii (Haw.) N.E.Br.
Stapelia Vetula Masson var. Simsii (Haw.) N.E.Br. is a succulent plant that belongs to the Apocynaceae family. It is commonly known as Carrion Flower due to its unpleasant odor. Propagating this plant is quite easy; it can be done through seeds, cuttings, or division.
Propagation by Seeds
Stapelia Vetula Masson var. Simsii (Haw.) N.E.Br. produces small seeds that can be propagated in the following ways:
- The seeds can be sown in a well-draining soil mix. The top of the soil should be gently pressed to ensure contact with the seeds.
- The seeds should be kept in a warm, bright, and humid place until germination occurs.
- Once seedlings are large enough to handle, they can be planted into individual pots.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is the quickest and easiest method for Stapelia Vetula Masson var. Simsii (Haw.) N.E.Br. Here's how to do it:
- Take a stem cutting of the plant from a healthy specimen. The cutting should be around 10 cm long and should not have any flowers or buds.
- Allow the cutting to callus over for a few days in a dry and warm place.
- Plant the cutting into well-draining soil mix and water it occasionally. The cutting should root in about 2-3 weeks.
Propagation by Division
Propagation by division is an excellent way to control the size of your Stapelia Vetula Masson var. Simsii (Haw.) N.E.Br. plant. Here are the steps to follow:
- Gently remove the plant from its pot, ensuring that the root ball is intact.
- Use a clean, sharp knife to divide the plant into smaller sections. Each section should have some roots and stems.
- Plant the divisions into separate pots with well-draining soil mix.
- Water the divisions occasionally, especially during the first few weeks.
Disease Management
Stapelia vetula Masson var. simsii (Haw.) N.E.Br. is a sturdy plant that is generally resistant to most diseases.
However, one common disease that affects it is root rot due to overwatering. To avoid this, ensure proper drainage and allow the soil to dry out before watering the plant again.
If the plant still catches root rot, you can apply a fungicide to the soil to control further infection. If the situation worsens, it’s best to propagate the healthy parts of the plant and start afresh.
Pest Management
The Stapelia vetula Masson var. simsii (Haw.) N.E.Br. plant is prone to infestation by mealybugs and spider mites.
Mealybugs can be spotted as small, white, cottony insects on the underside of the leaves. For effective management, you can wipe the leaves with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. A specific insecticide can also be used.
Spider mites leave yellow spots and webbing on the leaves. You can manage them by increasing humidity levels, washing the plant with soapy water, or applying insecticidal soap.
It’s essential to keep your plants clean, avoid overcrowding, and inspect them regularly to catch any infection early enough and prevent them from spreading.
