Overview
Stapeliopsis exasperata (Bruyns) Bruyns is a succulent plant known for its striking appearance and unique flowers. The plant is native to southern Africa and belongs to the Apocynaceae family. It is commonly known as 'Duiwevygie' in Afrikaans and 'Divine Stapeliopsis' in English. The plant's growth habit is upright with sprawling stems that can reach up to 30 cm in height.
Appearance
Stapeliopsis exasperata has a distinct appearance owing to its flat, elongated, and spiny stems that emerge from a basal rosette. The stems are covered with tiny bumps and have a green-grey coloration, which makes the plant appear rock-like. The leaves of the plant are reduced to tiny scales that surround the base of the stem. The inflorescences of Stapeliopsis exasperata grow from the stem tips and produce unique star-shaped flowers. The flowers measure 3-4 cm across, have five petals, and are reddish-brown in color. The flowers have hair-like structures that give them a furry appearance and produce a potent smell that attracts flies, which function as pollinators.
Uses
Stapeliopsis exasperata is primarily grown as an ornamental plant for its unique appearance and striking flowers. The plant is relatively easy to grow and requires minimal watering and fertilization. It is typically grown in rock gardens, succulent gardens, and containers. The plant's flowers can be cut and used in floral arrangements or left to propagate and produce new plants.
Additionally, some parts of the plant are used in traditional medicine. The plant is believed to have antimicrobial properties and is used to treat various ailments in African traditional medicine. However, these uses have not been scientifically validated, and the plant should not be used for medicinal purposes without proper guidance from a healthcare professional.
Growth Conditions for Stapeliopsis Exasperata (Bruyns) Bruyns
Light: Stapeliopsis exasperata requires bright, direct sunlight for at least 6 hours a day. In nature, it is usually found growing in rocky areas that are exposed to full sun. It is important to note that direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day can scorch the leaves and damage the plant.
Temperature: This plant prefers warm temperatures between 18°C to 27°C (65°F to 80°F). It can tolerate higher temperatures up to 32°C (90°F) during the day as long as there are cooler temperatures during the night. Keep in mind that this plant cannot tolerate frost or extremely low temperatures.
Soil: Stapeliopsis exasperata requires well-draining soil that is preferably sandy or gravelly. This is because the plant is adapted to dry conditions and does not like to be in soil that is too moist or waterlogged. It is recommended to use a cactus or succulent potting mix that has some added perlite or coarse sand.
Water: This plant is drought-tolerant and therefore does not require frequent watering. In fact, overwatering is one of the main reasons why this plant dies. It is best to water sparingly but thoroughly, allowing the soil to dry out almost completely between waterings. The frequency of watering will depend on the temperature and humidity of the environment.
Fertilizer: Fertilization is not necessary but can help the plant grow and thrive. It is recommended to use a succulent fertilizer every month during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing during the winter months when the plant is dormant.
Humidity: This plant does not require high humidity and can tolerate dry air. However, it may benefit from occasional misting to provide some moisture to the leaves. It is important to avoid misting the plant too frequently as this can lead to fungal problems.
Propagation: Stapeliopsis exasperata can be propagated from stem cuttings. Allow the cuttings to dry and callus over for a few days before planting them in well-draining soil. It is best to propagate during the growing season (spring and summer) when the plant is actively growing.
Cultivation
Stapeliopsis exasperata is a succulent plant indigenous to Southern Africa. It prefers a well-draining soil mixture that contains sand or a gritty material that permits air to circulate through the roots. The plant requires abundant sunlight, preferably direct sunlight, for at least four hours daily.
The plant grows well in warm temperatures that range from 60°F to 85°F (15°C to 29°C) during the daytime and 40°F to 60°F (4°C to 15°C) during the night. It is suitable for cultivation both indoors and outdoors as long as it has proper sunlight, ventilation, and temperature.
Watering needs
Like all succulents, Stapeliopsis exasperata requires infrequent watering, and the soil must dry out completely before you water again. Water the plant when the topsoil is dry or when the leaves appear wrinkled, showing that the plant requires water. When watering, pour water directly on the soil and not on the plant's body to avoid rotting.
To avoid overwatering the plant, consider planting it in a porous pot that allows water to evaporate gradually. During the winter, reduce the frequency of watering to avoid waterlogging the roots.
Fertilization
The plant does not require frequent fertilization; twice a year is sufficient. Fertilize the plant once in spring and again in summer when the plant is actively growing. Use a cactus or succulent fertilizer formulated with high potassium and low nitrogen content.
Before applying fertilizer to the soil, ensure that the soil is moist. Dilute the fertilizer to half-strength to avoid overfeeding the plant. Fertilizing in the winter when the plant is dormant is not recommended.
Pruning
Pruning is not mandatory, but it is beneficial to keep the plant compact and promote blooming. Cut off the dead or yellow leaves close to the stem using clean, sharp scissors. Trimming the long stems or branches of the plant can also enhance its beauty and form.
You can propagate the pruned parts by allowing the cut ends to dry for a few days before planting them in a well-draining soil mixture. The new plant will grow roots after two to three weeks and will require watering only when the soil is dry.
Propagation of Stapeliopsis Exasperata
Stapeliopsis exasperata (Bruyns) Bruyns can be propagated using various methods such as:
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings are the most commonly used method to propagate Stapeliopsis exasperata. Cuttings should be taken in early spring when the plant is actively growing. Cut a healthy stem using a sharp, sterilized knife or pruner, making sure the cut is clean and smooth. Allow the cutting to dry for a day or two before placing it into a pot of well-draining soil. The cutting should be planted at a depth of 2-3 cm and watered thoroughly. The pot should be kept in a bright area and away from direct sunlight until the cutting has rooted.
Propagation by Division
Propagation by division involves dividing the plant into smaller sections and planting each section into a new pot. This method should only be used for mature plants that have been growing for several years. Carefully remove the plant from its pot and gently separate the stems and roots into sections using a sterilized knife or pruner. Each section should have at least one stem and a healthy root system. Plant each section into a new pot with well-draining soil and water thoroughly. The plant should be kept in a bright area and away from direct sunlight until it has become established.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation by seeds is another method that can be used to propagate Stapeliopsis exasperata. This method is usually used by plant breeders to create new varieties. However, it can also be used by home gardeners. Collect the seeds from a mature plant and plant them into a pot of well-draining soil. The pot should be kept in a bright area and away from direct sunlight. The seeds should germinate within 2-3 weeks, and the plant should be kept in a bright area and out of direct sunlight until it becomes established.
Disease Management
Stapeliopsis exasperata is a succulent plant that is generally resistant to a wide range of diseases. However, there are a few fungal and bacterial diseases that can affect the plant. These include:
- Root Rot: This occurs when the roots of the plant become infected with fungi. Symptoms include discoloration of roots, wilting of leaves, and stunted growth. To manage root rot, remove the plant from the soil, remove any infected roots, and repot in fresh, well-draining soil.
- Leaf Spot: This is caused by fungal or bacterial infections. Symptoms include yellow or brown spots on the leaves, which can spread quickly and cause the leaves to fall off. To manage leaf spot, remove the affected leaves and treat the plant with a fungicide or bactericide.
Pest Management
Stapeliopsis exasperata is a hardy plant that is resistant to most pests. However, there are a few pests that can infest the plant. These include:
- Mealybugs: These are small, white insects that suck the sap from the plant. Symptoms include sticky residue on leaves and a white, cotton-like substance on the plant. To manage mealybugs, remove them with a toothbrush dipped in rubbing alcohol or insecticidal soap.
- Spider Mites: These are tiny, red or brown insects that can be found on the underside of leaves. Symptoms include yellow or brown spots on the leaves, which can eventually cause them to fall off. To manage spider mites, treat the plant with a miticide or insecticidal soap, and ensure that the plant is kept in a humid environment.
