Huernia guttata subsp. reticulata was discovered by Francis Masson (1741-1805) near the northern Olifants River and published as Stapelia reticulata in 1796.
Scientific Name
Huernia guttata subsp. reticulata (Masson) Bruyns
Synonym(s)
Ceropegia guttata subsp. reticulata, Huernia reticulata, Stapelia crassa, Stapelia reticulata
Scientific Classification
Family: Apocynaceae
Subfamily: Asclepiadoideae
Tribe: Stapeliae
Genus: Huernia
Description
Huernia guttata subsp. reticulata, also known as Huernia reticulata, is a small, clump-forming succulent with fleshy stems with large deltoid tubercles joined into five, often spiral angles. The stems are erect or ascending, branching at the base, and can grow up to 4 inches (10 cm) long and 1 inch (2.5 cm) thick, including the tubercles. They are smooth, green, and mottled with purple.
During the fall, the plant produces attractive flowers near the base of the stems. The flowers can reach up to 1.8 inches (4.5 cm) in diameter. They are pale yellow, covered with rather large, blood-red or deep crimson-brown, more or less confluent spots, producing a reticulated appearance. The upper part of the dark blood-red tube is densely covered with stiff glassy clavate purple hairs, hiding the corona.
Origin
Huernia boleana is native to South Africa. It occurs only in the Western Cape and Northern Cape provinces.
Etymology
The subspecific epithet "reticulata (reh-tick-yoo-LAY-tuh)" means "reticulated, net-like" and refers to the network-like pattern of the flowers.
How to Grow and Care for Huernia guttata subsp. reticulata
Light: Huernia guttata subsp. reticulata prefers bright light or partial shade during the hottest summer days. Too much sun can cause the stems to develop a protective pigmentation or get sunburned. Too little light leads to weak, thin stems and decreased flower production. When grown indoors, place the plant near the brightest window of your home.
Soil: The right soil is crucial to successful growing. Use a commercial potting soil mix for succulents, or prepare your own with 50 to 70 % mineral grit, such as coarse sand, pumice, or perlite.
Temperature: Huernia guttata subsp. reticulata thrives in warm outdoor environments with low to moderate humidity but does not like winter cold and should remain fairly dry and warm during its winter dormancy. It grows best in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 10b to 11b, with average minimum winter temperatures ranging from 35 to 50 °F (1.7 to 10 °C).
Watering: This plant has typical watering needs for a succulent. During the growing season, water it thoroughly and allow the soil to dry between waterings. It goes dormant in winter and needs almost no water, about once a month.
Fertilizing: To keep it healthy and thriving, fertilization during the growing season is a good idea. Feed with water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half the recommended strength.
Repotting: The plant will benefit from fresh potting soil every 2 or 3 years. Repot it in spring, just before the growing season. Pick a container with drainage holes.
Propagation: The best way to propagate Huernia guttata subsp. reticulata is from stem cuttings. Take cuttings during the growing season to ensure good rooting. It is also easy to start from seeds in spring.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Huernia.
Toxicity of Huernia guttata subsp. reticulata
Huernia guttata subsp. reticulata has no toxic effects reported, so it is safe around pets and humans.
Links
- Back to genus Huernia
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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