Origin
Tylecodon buchholzianus subsp. fasciculatus is a succulent plant that originated from South Africa, particularly in the Northern Cape province. It is commonly found in rocky outcrops and slopes, and margins of Karoo scrub vegetation.
Common Names
Commonly known as the "Buchholz's tylecodon" or "fasciculate tylecodon," this plant is named after its discoverer, Mr. Buchholz, who first collected the plant in the 1930s.
Uses
The Buchholz's tylecodon has medicinal properties that have been used by local indigenous communities. The sap of the plant is applied to alleviate pain and treat rheumatism and skin irritations. However, the plant should be used with caution as it is toxic and can cause skin irritations and even death when ingested.
General Appearance
Tylecodon buchholzianus subsp. fasciculatus is a small succulent plant with fleshy and cylindrical leaves that grow in a rosette formation. The leaves of the Buchholz's tylecodon are a pale green color and are covered with small white dots. The plant produces a tall flower spike that blooms with tubular coral-red flowers in late winter to spring. The plant grows up to a height of about 15-30 cm and spreads to form clumps of plants that provide a striking appearance.
Light Requirements
Tylecodon buchholzianus subsp. fasciculatus requires bright, indirect light. Exposure to direct sunlight can cause scorching of the leaves. Therefore, it is recommended to grow the plant under partial shade or in a well-lit room.
Temperature Requirements
This species of Tylecodon prefers warm temperatures between 21-26 degrees Celsius during the day and 10-15 degrees Celsius at night. Growth can be inhibited if the temperature drops below 10 degrees Celsius.
Soil Requirements
Tylecodon buchholzianus subsp. fasciculatus thrives in well-draining, sandy soil. It requires a pH range between 6.0-7.0 and a low nutrient content. Adding organic matter to the soil can help improve drainage and promote healthy growth.
Watering Requirements
This plant is drought tolerant and does well with infrequent, deep watering. It is important to allow the soil to dry out between watering to prevent root rot. Overwatering can lead to leaf drop and root damage.
Fertilizer Requirements
Tylecodon buchholzianus subsp. fasciculatus does not require frequent fertilization. Fertilizing once a month with a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer during the growing season can help promote healthy growth. However, over-fertilization can lead to leaf burn, so care should be taken to apply in moderation.
Cultivation Methods
Tylecodon buchholzianus (Schuldt & Stephens) Toelken subsp. fasciculatus G.Will. is a succulent plant that requires bright, indirect sunlight for at least six hours a day. This plant is best grown in well-draining soil with a neutral pH level. It is recommended to use a mixture of cactus soil and perlite for optimal drainage. T. buchholzianus subsp. fasciculatus is sensitive to frost and needs to be protected from cold temperatures. This plant can be propagated from cuttings or seeds and requires a warm, humid environment to germinate.
Watering Needs
Since T. buchholzianus subsp. fasciculatus is a succulent plant, it has low water requirements and requires infrequent watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases. Watering should be done only when the soil is completely dry, and excess water should be drained to prevent waterlogging. It is better to underwater than to overwater T. buchholzianus subsp. fasciculatus as it is more resilient to drought than to excess moisture.
Fertilization
T. buchholzianus subsp. fasciculatus does not require frequent fertilization. You can apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once a year in the spring to improve growth and flowering. Alternatively, you can use a liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every two to three weeks during the growing season. Avoid fertilizing the plant during the dormant season as this can harm the roots.
Pruning
Tylecodon buchholzianus subsp. fasciculatus G.Will. requires minimal pruning. You can prune the plant to control the size and shape, remove damaged, diseased, or dead leaves and stems. It is advisable to use sharp and sterilized pruning shears to avoid transmitting diseases from other plants. The best time to prune is during the growing season, as the plant is actively growing. Do not prune during the dormant season as this can harm the plant.
Propagation of Tylecodon buchholzianus subsp. fasciculatus
Tylecodon buchholzianus subsp. fasciculatus is a succulent plant that is native to South Africa. Propagation of this plant can be achieved through different methods:
Seeds
The most common method of propagating Tylecodon buchholzianus subsp. fasciculatus is through seeds. The seeds need to be collected from the parent plant. Once the seeds are collected, they should be kept in a dry place until they are ready to use. Before planting, the seeds need to be scarified to improve the germination rate. Scarification can be done by filing or nicking the seed coat or soaking the seeds in boiling water for a few minutes. After scarification, the seeds can be planted in well-draining soil and lightly covered with sand. The soil should be kept moist until the seeds germinate, which can take up to three weeks.
Leaf cuttings
Another method of propagating Tylecodon buchholzianus subsp. fasciculatus is through leaf cuttings. Cut a leaf from the parent plant and allow it to dry for a day or two. Once the wound has healed over, plant the leaf in well-draining soil. The leaf should be inserted deep enough into the soil to keep it upright. The soil should be kept moist until roots and new growth appear, which can take several months.
Stem cuttings
Stem cuttings can also be used to propagate Tylecodon buchholzianus subsp. fasciculatus. Cut a stem from the parent plant and allow it to dry for a day or two. Once the wound has healed over, plant the stem in well-draining soil. The soil should be kept moist until roots and new growth appear, which can take several months.
Division
Propagation through division can be done by separating the plant's offsets or pups from the parent plant. Carefully remove the offset with a clean, sharp knife and plant it in well-draining soil. The soil should be kept moist until roots and new growth appear, which can take several months.
Disease management
Tylecodon buchholzianus subsp. fasciculatus is known to be vulnerable to fungal and bacterial diseases. But with proper care, it can resist most diseases:
- Fungal diseases: Gray mold, leaf spots, and powdery mildew are some of the common fungal diseases that can affect Tylecodon buchholzianus subsp. fasciculatus. To avoid these conditions, provide good air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and prevent the foliage from remaining damp for long periods. You can also apply a fungicide as a preventive measure in case of imminent danger.
- Bacterial diseases: Bacterial soft rot and crown rot are some of the bacterial diseases that can affect the plant. To prevent bacterial infections, avoid overwatering and overfertilizing, which can stress the plant, making it more vulnerable to bacterial infections.
Pest management
Tylecodon buchholzianus subsp. fasciculatus can be affected by a few pests, but with proper care, infestations can be prevented or managed:
- Mealybugs: Mealybugs can be a problem for Tylecodon buchholzianus subsp. fasciculatus. To get rid of mealybugs, you can use insecticidal soap, rubbing alcohol, or neem oil.
- Spider mites: Spider mites can also be a problem for the plant. You can get rid of spider mites by washing the plant with a strong stream of water or by applying insecticidal soap.
- Scale insects: Scale insects can also infest Tylecodon buchholzianus subsp. fasciculatus. You can remove the scales by hand or use insecticidal soap to control their population.
Inspecting the plant regularly for signs of pest infestations and disease symptoms and taking appropriate preventative measures can go a long way in protecting Tylecodon buchholzianus subsp. fasciculatus from pests and diseases.
