Origin
Stapeliopsis saxatilis (N.E.Br.) Bruyns subsp. saxatilis, commonly known as rock stapeliopsis, hails from the rocky areas of Namibia and South Africa.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as rock stapeliopsis due to its origin from the rocky areas. It is also known as carrion plant or starfish cactus, due to its peculiar flowers that exude the smell of decaying flesh.
Uses
The rock stapeliopsis is a popular ornamental plant that is preferred by many gardeners for its unique and peculiar appearance. The plant does not require much care and can grow well even in dry regions. It is widely used in rock gardens, succulent gardens, and as a houseplant, due to its tolerance to low light conditions.
General Appearance
The rock stapeliopsis is a succulent plant that grows up to 15 cm in height. It has small, green, and triangular-shaped stems that grow in clusters, forming a mat-like cover on the ground. The stems have small, succulent leaves that are only a few millimeters long. The plant produces small, star-shaped flowers that are about 2 cm in diameter. The flowers have a yellow center and five pointed petals that are fused together. The flowers exude a foul smell, similar to that of decaying flesh, to attract pollinators such as flies and beetles.
The plant is similar in appearance to other Stapeliopsis species, but it can be distinguished by its triangular-shaped leaves and its habit of growing in rocky areas.
Light Requirements
The Stapeliopsis saxatilis subsp. saxatilis is a succulent plant that requires a considerable amount of sunlight to thrive. It prefers bright to direct sunlight and is not suitable for indoor growth. In a natural setting, it grows well in sunny, open areas and rocky slopes.
Temperature
This plant is native to southern Africa, where it grows in subtropical to tropical climates. It thrives in warm temperatures that range from 70°F to 95°F (21°C to 35°C). The plant can withstand occasional freezes but is best protected from frost and extreme cold temperatures.
Soil Requirements
The Stapeliopsis saxatilis subsp. saxatilis is a drought-resistant plant and prefers well-draining soil with added sand or perlite to aid in drainage. It grows well in sandy soils and rocky substrates. The pH level of the soil should be between 6 and 8. The plant is sensitive to overwatering and requires soils that retain minimal moisture.
Cultivation Methods for Stapeliopsis saxatilis
Stapeliopsis saxatilis subsp. saxatilis is a succulent plant that is easy to grow. It can be grown both indoors and outdoors with proper care and attention. You can propagate it through stem cutting and seed. The plant requires well-draining soil and full sunlight. It is a drought-tolerant plant, and too much moisture can damage its roots.
Watering Needs for Stapeliopsis saxatilis
Watering is an essential aspect of caring for Stapeliopsis saxatilis subsp. saxatilis. The plant requires moderate watering once a week, during its growing season. You should always allow the soil to dry out between watering periods. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can damage the plant. During the winter period the watering should be much less, once every two weeks or less if the soil has not fully dried out.
Fertilization
Fertilizing your Stapeliopsis saxatilis subsp. saxatilis is important to replenish the nutrients in the soil. The plant prefers a balanced fertilizer that is high in nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and some micronutrients. It is recommended to fertilize the soil once every two weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth and development. Use diluted fertilizer to avoid damaging the plant roots.
Pruning
Pruning is not required for Stapeliopsis saxatilis subsp. saxatilis. However, you can pinch back the tips with your fingers to encourage bushier growth and more flowers. The plant may also produce dead or faded flowers that you can remove to stimulate the growth of new blooms. Don't prune more than one-third of the plant at a time to avoid damaging it.
By following these basic guidelines, you can successfully cultivate and care for your Stapeliopsis saxatilis subsp. saxatilis. Remember to keep it in well-draining soil, avoid overwatering, fertilize regularly and prune as necessary. Doing the right things right will make your plant thrive and healthy.
Propagation of Stapeliopsis saxatilis subsp. saxatilis
Stapeliopsis saxatilis subsp. saxatilis can be propagated using several methods, including stem cuttings and seeds.
Propagation by stem cuttings
Propagation by stem cuttings is one of the easiest and most reliable methods of propagating Stapeliopsis saxatilis subsp. saxatilis. Here are the steps to follow:
- Choose a healthy stem that is at least 4 inches long.
- Use a clean, sharp knife to make a clean cut, removing the stem from the mother plant.
- Allow the cutting to dry for 24-48 hours in a dry, shaded area to allow for callus formation.
- Plant the stem cutting in a well-draining soil mix, such as cactus mix.
- Keep the soil moist, but not wet, and place the cutting in a warm, bright location with indirect sunlight.
- Roots should begin to form in a few weeks; after a few months, the new plant will be established.
Propagation by seeds
Propagation by seeds is another method of propagating Stapeliopsis saxatilis subsp. saxatilis. Here are the steps to follow:
- Collect seeds from mature fruit capsules that have turned brown.
- Remove the seeds from the fruit capsule and allow them to dry for several days.
- Plant the seeds in a well-draining soil mix, such as cactus mix, and keep the soil moist, but not wet.
- Place the planting container in a warm, bright location with indirect sunlight.
- Germination can be erratic and may take several weeks to several months.
- As the seedlings mature, they should be transplanted into individual pots.
Disease Management
Stapeliopsis saxatilis is susceptible to fungal and bacterial diseases. Hence, preventive measures should be taken to reduce the incidence and spread of these diseases.
Preventive Measures
- Ensure good air circulation around the plant by spacing them properly.
- Avoid overcrowding plants.
- Water the plant in the morning and avoid wetting the leaves as this can promote the growth of fungi.
- Use well-draining soil to avoid waterlogging.
- Practice crop rotation to reduce the incidence of soil-borne diseases.
Common Diseases
Root Rot: This disease is caused by fungi that thrive in waterlogged soil. It is characterized by the rotting of the roots, which then leads to the wilting of the leaves. The infected plant should be removed and the soil replaced.
Leaf Spot: Leaf spots are usually caused by fungus or bacteria. Affected leaves have circular patches with a water-soaked appearance and yellow halos. To manage this disease, remove the affected leaves and apply fungicides.
Pest Management
Stapeliopsis saxatilis is vulnerable to pest infestations. Some of the common pests that affect the plant include mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects.
Preventive Measures
- Ensure good air circulation around the plant by spacing them properly.
- Avoid overcrowding plants.
- Regularly wipe the leaves of the plant with a damp cloth to remove dust and debris as these can attract pests.
- Always inspect new plants before introducing them to the garden as they can introduce pests.
- Keep mulch away from the base of the plant as this can provide a breeding ground for pests.
Common Pests
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are soft-bodied, wingless insects that suck sap from plants. They are usually found on the undersides of the leaves and along the stems. To manage mealybug infestations, remove the infected parts of the plant and apply insecticidal soap.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny, sap-sucking pests that cause leaves to yellow and wilt. They are usually found on the undersides of the leaves. To manage spider mite infestations, remove the infected parts of the plant and apply insecticidal soap.
Scale Insects: Scale insects are tiny, immobile pests that suck sap from the leaves and stems of plants. They are usually found on the undersides of the leaves. To manage scale insect infestations, remove the infected parts of the plant and apply insecticidal soap.
