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Description
Ceropegia Dichotoma, commonly known as the “Lantern Flower” or “String of Needles,” is a succulent species that belongs to the Asclepiadaceae family. It is a perennial plant that originates from India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. The plant has thin, wiry stems that can reach up to 30cm in length. The leaves are small and succulent, measuring only 1.5-3mm in length. The flowers are bell-shaped, measuring about 1.5cm long, and are usually greenish-white or yellowish in color. The plant blooms in the summer and fall seasons.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Asclepiadaceae |
| Genus | Ceropegia |
Appearance
Ceropegia Dichotoma is a unique-looking plant with thin, wiry stems and small succulent leaves. The stems are usually green in color and can grow up to 30cm in length. The leaves are small and succulent, measuring only 1.5-3mm in length. They are arranged opposite to each other along the stem. The flowers are bell-shaped, measuring about 1.5cm long, and are usually greenish-white or yellowish in color. The plant blooms in the summer and fall seasons.
Care Guide
Ceropegia Dichotoma is a relatively easy plant to care for, and it can thrive indoors or outdoors. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:Water: The plant prefers well-draining soil and should be watered only when the soil is completely dry. Overwatering can cause the roots to rot.Fertilization: The plant does not require regular fertilization, but a diluted liquid fertilizer can be applied once a month during the growing season.Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight, but it can also tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Ceropegia Dichotoma can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but it is best suited for USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ceropegia Dichotoma is generally a pest-free plant, but it can be susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites. These pests can be controlled with a mild insecticide. The plant can also be affected by fungal diseases such as root rot, which can be prevented by avoiding overwatering and providing well-draining soil.
Habitat
Ceropegia Dichotoma is native to India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. It can be found growing in dry, rocky areas and on hillsides.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Ceropegia Dichotoma be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors as long as it receives bright, indirect sunlight and is not overwatered.Q: How often should I water Ceropegia Dichotoma?
A: The plant should be watered only when the soil is completely dry.Q: What is the best soil mix for this plant?
A: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.Q: How often should I fertilize Ceropegia Dichotoma?
A: The plant does not require regular fertilization, but a diluted liquid fertilizer can be applied once a month during the growing season.
Related Plants
Here are some plants that are related to Ceropegia Dichotoma:
- Ceropegia Woodii
- Ceropegia Ampliata
- Ceropegia Sandersonii
- Ceropegia Linearis
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/string-of-needles/care-of-string-of-needles-houseplants.htm
- https://worldofsucculents.com/ceropegia-dichotoma-lantern-flower-string-of-needles/
- https://www.houseplantsexpert.com/string-of-needles-care.html
