Dorstenia is a genus of strange caudex-forming plants native to northeast Africa. They spread out along the base, just above the soil, and have branches pointing upward. These plants usually have attractive green non-succulent leaves of various shapes depending on the species. Some species have sunflower-like flowers that spray seeds all over your greenhouse. Small Dorstenias pop up in other pots. Dorstenia foetida does this and is the most common species found in the marketplace. However, most other species are extremely rare and somewhat difficult to grow. Dorstenia gigas, from the island of Socotra in the Arabian Sea, prefers a mild, humid, but not rainy coastal climate. It will wilt if exposed to excessively high or low temperatures for extended periods.
Growing Conditions
Light: Dorstenias need a bright light or partial to full shade.
Water: During the growing season, they appreciate a fair amount of water but allow the soil to dry slightly between watering, ensuring they never dry out completely. During the winter months, Dorstenias should be given very little water.
Hardiness Zones: 10b – 12b
Soil: Well-drained soil mix that must not remain soggy for too long.
Fertilizer: Fertilize Dorstenias once during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer diluted to 1/2 the strength recommended on the label.
Propagation
Dorstenias are usually propagated by seed. Many species are self-fertile. Their seeds are expelled explosively from the mature seed heads and are liable to populate pots several feet away. These plants can also be propagated by cuttings.
Pests and Problems
With a high-temperature swing between the day and night hours and frequent rains, the spring weather can favor the development of fungus diseases, which should be treated preemptively with a systemic fungicide.
Grower's Tips
Dorstenias are warm-loving plants that need a bit more water than regular succulents. They need well-draining soil, and their water needs vary depending on the season. Water your Dorstenias abundant from spring to fall. Allow the soil to dry slightly between watering, but ensure they never dry out completely. During the winter months, they tend to go at least partially dormant. During this period, water your Dorstenias very little. Giving plants a warm, sunny position can result in beautiful, compact growing plants. Plants should be fertilized occasionally during their growing period with a high potash and phosphorus fertilizer.
Links
- Back to genus Dorstenia
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus