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Description
Ceropegia Retrospiciens, also known as the String of Spades, is a succulent plant that belongs to the family Asclepiadaceae. It is native to Madagascar and is popular among collectors due to its unique appearance and ease of care. The plant is characterized by its thin, elongated stems that grow up to 1 meter in length and its small, spade-shaped leaves that grow in pairs along the stems. The stems are covered in tiny, white, hair-like projections that give the plant a fuzzy texture. The flowers of the Ceropegia Retrospiciens are small and tubular, with a greenish-yellow color and purple stripes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Asclepiadaceae |
| Genus | Ceropegia |
Appearance
The Ceropegia Retrospiciens has thin, elongated stems that grow up to 1 meter in length. The stems are covered in tiny, white, hair-like projections that give the plant a fuzzy texture. The leaves of the plant are small and spade-shaped, growing in pairs along the stems. The leaves are a light green color and have a slightly waxy texture. The flowers of the Ceropegia Retrospiciens are small and tubular, with a greenish-yellow color and purple stripes. The flowers grow in clusters at the ends of the stems and have a unique, star-shaped appearance.
Care Guide
Water: The Ceropegia Retrospiciens prefers to be kept on the drier side, so only water the plant when the soil is completely dry. Overwatering can cause root rot and damage the plant.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix that is specifically designed for succulent plants.
Sunlight: The Ceropegia Retrospiciens prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid placing the plant in direct sunlight as it can cause the leaves to scorch.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Ceropegia Retrospiciens is relatively pest-free, but can be susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites. To prevent pests, keep the plant in a clean, well-ventilated area and avoid overwatering. In terms of diseases, the plant can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered.
Habitat
The Ceropegia Retrospiciens is native to Madagascar and is found growing in rocky, dry areas. The plant is adapted to its arid environment and can survive long periods of drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Ceropegia Retrospiciens be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors as long as it is placed in a bright, well-lit area.
Q: How often does the Ceropegia Retrospiciens need to be fertilized?
A: The plant should be fertilized once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).
Q: Can the Ceropegia Retrospiciens be propagated?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated through stem cuttings.
Q: What is the ideal temperature range for the Ceropegia Retrospiciens?
A: The plant prefers temperatures between 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
Related Plants
- Ceropegia woodii
- Ceropegia sandersonii
- Ceropegia linearis
- Ceropegia stapeliiformis
References
- “Ceropegia Retrospiciens.” World of Succulents, Accessed 15 October 2021, https://worldofsucculents.com/ceropegia-retrospiciens-string-of-spades/.
- “Ceropegia Retrospiciens.” Gardenia, Accessed 15 October 2021, https://www.gardenia.net/plant/ceropegia-retrospiciens.
- “Ceropegia Retrospiciens: Care Guide.” Joy Us Garden, Accessed 15 October 2021, https://www.joyusgarden.com/ceropegia-retrospiciens-care/.
