Dorstenia is a genus of strange caudex-forming plants native to northeast Africa. They spread along the base, just above the soil, with branches pointing upward. These plants typically have attractive green, non-succulent leaves in various shapes, depending on the species. Some species have sunflower-like flowers that disperse seeds throughout 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 scarce and somewhat challenging 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 high-temperature swings between day and night and frequent rainfall, spring weather can favor the development of fungal diseases, which should be treated proactively with a systemic fungicide.
Grower's Tips
Dorstenias are warm-loving plants that require slightly more water than regular succulents. They require well-drained soil, and their water needs vary by season. Water your Dorstenias abundantly from spring to fall. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings, but ensure it never dries out completely. During the winter months, they tend to enter at least partial dormancy. During this period, water your Dorstenias very little. Providing plants with a warm, sunny position can result in beautiful, compact growth. Plants should be fertilized occasionally during their growing period with a high-potash, high-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