Origin
Stapeliopsis pillansii (N.E.Br.) Bruyns is a succulent plant species that belongs to the Apocynaceae family. It is native to South Africa, specifically found in the Northern Cape and the Western Cape regions.
Common Names
This succulent plant is commonly known as the "Carrion Flower" due to its distinct smell, which mimics the scent of rotting flesh that attracts pollinators such as flies and beetles. It is also called as "Toad Plant" due to its toad-like spotted stem.
Uses
The Carrion Flower species is not cultivated for any specific use. However, it is a popular addition to succulent collections globally due to its unique appearance and the attraction it brings to pollinators. Some cultures also believe it to possess medicinal properties, and extracts from the plant are used to treat various ailments such as earaches, sore throats, and hypertension.
Appearance
Stapeliopsis pillansii is a small, low growing, perennial succulent plant that grows up to 10 cm in height. The plant features attractive stems with peculiar geometric patterns of raised bumps that are white or yellow in color and resemble the skin of a toad. The stems of the plant also have small tufts of short hair which enhances the plant's visual effect. Its flowers typically grow in clusters and are bright yellow in color, star-shaped, and with a sweet nectar-like aroma.
Light Requirements
The Stapeliopsis pillansii plant requires bright and indirect sunlight for optimal growth. It should, therefore, be placed in a bright location in the house or in a garden with partial shade. Direct sunlight may scorch the plant, whereas dim light will lead to stunted growth.
Temperature Requirements
The plant thrives in warm temperatures, typically in the range of 21°C to 29°C (70°F to 85°F). It may tolerate temperatures as low as 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F), but prolonged exposure to such temperatures may lead to stunted growth or death of the plant.
Soil Requirements
Stapeliopsis pillansii typically grows in well-draining soils, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. The soil should be rich in organic matter to enhance the retention of moisture. The plant may be grown in soils containing perlite, sand, or gravel to improve drainage. Fertilizers rich in potassium and phosphorus are recommended to encourage healthy growth.
Cultivation Methods
When cultivating Stapeliopsis pillansii, it is important to remember that this plant is native to South Africa and requires warm temperatures throughout the year. It prefers soil that is well-draining and slightly acidic. It is best to plant the cactus during the warm months of the year, particularly in spring or early summer.
In terms of light requirements, the plant enjoys bright, but indirect sunlight. While it can tolerate partial shade, a shady environment may cause the plant to shoot upwards with lanky growth.
Watering Needs
The watering needs of Stapeliopsis pillansii are quite minimal. The plant has adapted to its arid environment and can survive long periods without moisture. It is best to water the cactus only when the soil is dry, usually once a week or less frequently. Over-watering can encourage the growth of harmful fungi and cause the roots to rot.
Fertilization
The cactus requires very little fertilizer, if any. During the growing season, it can be beneficial to administer a diluted, balanced fertilizer once or twice. However, it is important to halt fertilization during the winter months when the plant is dormant.
Pruning
Stapeliopsis pillansii can grow up to several feet in height, but it does not require pruning like other plants might. If the plant appears to be growing out of its pot, it is best to wait until the spring or early summer to repot it in its new location. You can also remove dead or yellowing stems as needed, but be careful not to strip the plant of too much foliage, or it may harm its health.
Propagation of Stapeliopsis pillansii
Stapeliopsis pillansii (N.E.Br.) Bruyns is a succulent plant that belongs to the family Apocynaceae. The plant is native to Southern Africa, and it is commonly known as Carrion Flower. The plant has unique flowers that resemble those of a starfish and emit an unpleasant odor that attracts flies. If you want to propagate Stapeliopsis pillansii, there are several methods you can use, including:
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
One of the easiest ways to propagate Stapeliopsis pillansii is through stem cuttings. To do this, you need to cut a healthy stem from the parent plant using a sharp and sterilized knife. Allow the cutting to dry for a few days before planting it in a well-draining potting mix. Water the cutting sparingly until it establishes roots, which should take a few weeks.
Propagation by Division
You can also propagate Stapeliopsis pillansii by division, especially if the plant has grown too large for its pot. To do this, you need to remove the parent plant from its pot and gently separate the offsets using a sterilized knife or scissors. Each offset should have its roots and a few stems. Plant the offsets in a well-draining potting mix and water sparingly until they establish roots.
Propagation by Seeds
You can also propagate Stapeliopsis pillansii by seeds, although this method takes longer and requires more effort. To do this, you need to collect ripe seed pods from a healthy parent plant and allow them to dry for a few days. Sow the seeds in a well-draining potting mix and cover them lightly with soil. Water the soil sparingly and keep the seeds in a warm and bright location. The seeds should germinate within a few weeks, and you can transplant the seedlings to their own pots once they are big enough to handle.
Disease Management for Stapeliopsis pillansii
Stapeliopsis pillansii is a succulent that is relatively resistant to diseases if grown in optimal conditions. However, several diseases may affect the plant, and it is essential to prevent or manage them to keep the plant healthy.
One common disease that can affect Stapeliopsis pillansii is root rot caused by overwatering or poorly-draining soil. Symptoms include yellowing leaves, wilting, and a foul odor from the soil. To manage root rot, it is necessary to remove the affected parts of the plant and repot it in a well-draining soil mix. Reduce watering frequency and duration to prevent future occurrences.
Another disease that can affect the plant is powdery mildew. It appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves that can reduce the plant's growth and vitality. To manage powdery mildew, it is necessary to remove the affected parts of the plant and apply a fungicide such as neem oil or copper fungicide according to the product's instructions.
Pest Management for Stapeliopsis pillansii
Like diseases, pests can also affect Stapeliopsis pillansii. Some common pests that can affect this plant include mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. Here are some ways to manage these pests:
Mealybugs: These pests appear as white cottony masses on the leaves and stems. To manage mealybugs, it is necessary to remove them manually with a cotton swab or a spray bottle filled with rubbing alcohol. Repeat this process until the plant is free of mealybugs.
Spider mites: These pests are tiny and difficult to see with the naked eye. They appear as webbing on the plant leaves and damage them by sucking out the sap. To manage spider mites, it is necessary to keep the plant hydrated by misting it often and introducing natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings. Alternatively, apply a miticide according to the product's instructions.
Scale insects: These pests appear as small waxy bumps on the leaves. They suck out the sap and reduce the plant's vitality. To manage scale insects, it is necessary to remove them manually with a cotton swab or a spray bottle filled with rubbing alcohol. Repeat this process until the plant is free of scale insects.
