Friday, July 26, 2019

Huernia Procumbens



Day 286: Native to southern and eastern Africa, the Huernias are sometimes referred to as "Lifesaver Plants" for having a raised disk which resembles the popular candy at the center of the flower. It is not as apparent in Pointed Star (Huernia procumbens, above) as it is in some other Huernias, but as the blossom ages, the points of the star reflex and the "lifesaver" becomes more obvious. Huernias are creeping succulents, forgiving of neglectful watering although they tend to drop sections if allowed to become too dry. No problem! Simply stick the butt-end of the stem into damp potting soil, pack the dirt lightly around it and keep it lightly moist for a few weeks, and you'll have a new Pointed Star to give away to a friend. As with any cactus or succulent, over-watering is to be avoided. Likewise, mealybugs can be a pest, but application of a systemic will eliminate them from this attractive and unusual houseplant.

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