Overview
Stomatium lesliei (Schwantes) Volk is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the family of Aizoaceae. It is a mat-forming succulent that is native to South Africa, specifically in the Northern Cape Province.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Leslie's Mouth-puckering Plant or Leslie's Tongue-twister. These common names pertain to the plant's unique feature where its leaves instantly pucker and twist when touched or disturbed.
Appearance
The Stomatium lesliei is a low-growing succulent that typically reaches a height of two inches and a spread of six inches. Its leaves are small and fleshy, measuring up to 0.4 inches long. The leaves are green and have a cylindrical shape with pointed tips. They look straight when the plant is at rest or without any disturbance. However, they contract or pucker, and some may twist in a counterclockwise direction when touched or disturbed, making it a unique feature of this plant. The plant also produces tiny white flowers measuring about 0.25 inches in diameter that bloom in the summer months.
Uses
Stomatium lesliei is primarily grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and rockeries, particularly in regions with hot and dry climates. Despite its strikingly unique appearance, it has no known traditional or medicinal uses.
Light Requirements
Stomatium lesliei (Schwantes) Volk is a sun-loving plant that requires full sunlight exposure to thrive optimally. It is recommended to plant it in a location where it receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. The plant can tolerate some shade but may not flower correctly if planted in a shaded area.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-drained soil with a sandy loam texture. It can tolerate soils that range from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline but is optimal in a soil PH range of 5.8 to 7.2. The soil should have a high fertility level and should be amended with organic matter to improve its nutrient content. Additionally, the soil should not retain excess water, which can cause root rot.
Temperature Requirements
Stomatium lesliei can tolerate a broad range of temperatures. It can grow optimally in temperatures between 20 to 30 °C. The plant can also tolerate temperatures as low as -2°C during the dormancy period. However, it is advisable to protect the plant from frost by mulching around the base in colder regions.
Watering
Since the plant prefers to grow in well-drained soil, it does not require frequent watering. Watering should be done only when the soil is dry to the touch, and the plant should be adequately moistened, but not overwatered. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can quickly kill the plant.
Cultivation of Stomatium Lesliei
Stomatium lesliei (Schwantes) Volk, commonly known as Leslie's Maroon African Daisy, is native to Namibia. This resilient perennial species is easy to cultivate, even for novice gardeners.
Planting Requirements
The species thrives in full sun in well-draining soils. Sow the seeds into the soil at a depth of about 1 cm and maintain a consistent temperature of around 21°C. Germination should occur between two and three weeks, and seedlings will start growing in three to four weeks.
Watering Needs
Water the Stomatium lesliei moderately only when the soil becomes dry. Overwatering can cause root rot and kill the plant. Avoid watering the foliage to prevent the formation of fungal diseases. In consistently hot and dry climates, water the plant moderately to prevent it from drying out. However, be cautious not to overwater.
Fertilization
Stomatium lesliei is not prone to nutrient deficiencies; therefore, it does not need frequent fertilization. However, a substantial amount of organic matter incorporated into the soil can improve the growth of the plant. For optimal growth, a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, can be applied during the flowering season to encourage prolific flowering. Apply the fertilizer at half-strength to avoid burning the plant roots.
Pruning
Stomatium lesliei is relatively low-maintenance; however, harvesting stems and deadheading spent blooms can improve the plant's overall appearance and encourage more blooming. Cut the plant about 2-3 inches above the soil surface to avoid a bare patch. Remove yellow or dead leaves, which can prevent fungal growth.
Propagation of Stomatium lesliei (Schwantes) Volk
Stomatium lesliei (Schwantes) Volk can be propagated through various methods, including seed propagation and vegetative propagation.
Seed Propagation
The seeds of Stomatium lesliei (Schwantes) Volk can be germinated in a nursery. The best time to collect the seeds is after the flowers have faded and the seed heads have matured. Sow the seeds in well-draining soil and cover them with a thin layer of soil. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. The seeds will germinate in about 4-6 weeks. Once the seedlings are big enough, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the ground.
Vegetative Propagation
Stomatium lesliei (Schwantes) Volk can be propagated vegetatively through stem cuttings or division.
Stem cuttings should be taken from mature plants during the growing season. Cut a stem below a node and remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting. Dip the cut end of the stem into rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining rooting medium. Keep the cutting moist and in indirect light until it has rooted and can be transplanted into a pot or garden.
Division can also be used to propagate Stomatium lesliei (Schwantes) Volk. Dig up an established plant and gently separate the roots into smaller sections. Each section should have a healthy root system and some foliage. Replant the divided sections in well-draining soil and water thoroughly.
Disease Management for Stomatium lesliei (Schwantes) Volk
Stomatium lesliei (Schwantes) Volk is known to be potentially affected by fungal diseases. The most common fungal diseases that may affect this plant include root rot, powdery mildew, and leaf spot. To manage root rot, it is crucial to prevent overwatering and ensure proper drainage. If root rot is already present, you may have to remove and destroy the affected parts of the plant. For powdery mildew, the use of fungicides like sulfur-based fungicides and neem oil can be helpful in managing the disease. For leaf spot, removing the diseased leaves and applying fungicides can also help prevent fungal invasion.
Pest Management for Stomatium lesliei (Schwantes) Volk
Stomatium lesliei (Schwantes) Volk is generally resistant to pest infestation. However, some common pests that may attack this plant include scale insects, thrips, and spider mites. To manage these pests, regular inspection of the plant is necessary to detect any infestation on time. The use of insecticidal soaps, neem oil, and horticultural oils can also help control pest populations. In severe cases, you may have to remove and destroy the affected parts of the plant to prevent further spread of the infestation.
