Clump forming perennial succulent that thrives in semi-arid areas. Leaves are strap-like, smooth, with almost a waxy, grey-green coating. The edges of leaves have very fine teeth. Flowers are borne in curved, yellow-brown to reddish racemes or panicles and are tubular. As a houseplant, grown in cactus mix in bright light and water well from spring until fall. Reduce watering in winter. Outside, grow in well drained soil that is rich, in full sun.
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Characteristics
Cultivar: n/aFamily: Asteraceae
Size: Height: 3 ft. to 5 ft.
Width: 2.17 ft. to 3 ft.
Plant Category: cacti and other succulents,
Plant Characteristics:
Foliage Characteristics: coarse leaves,
Flower Characteristics: erect, nodding,
Flower Color: creams, oranges, purples, yellows,
Tolerances: heat & humidity,
Requirements
Bloomtime Range: Late Spring to Late Spring
USDA Hardiness Zone: 10 to 11
AHS Heat Zone: Not defined for this plant
Light Range: Sun to Full Sun
pH Range: 5 to 6
Soil Range: Sand to Potting Soil
Water Range: Dry to Normal
Plant Care
Fertilizing
How-to : Fertilization for Annuals and Perennials Annuals and perennials may be fertilized using: 1.water-soluble, quick release fertilizers; 2. temperature controlled slow-release fertilizers; or 3. organic fertilizers such as fish emulsion. Water soluble fertilizers are generally used every two weeks during the growing season or per label instructions. Controlled, slow-release fertilizers are worked into the soil ususally only once during the growing season or per label directions. For organic fertilizers such as fish emulsion, follow label directions as they may vary per product.
Light
Conditions : Bright Light for Houseplants Houseplants requiring bright light should be placed within 2 feet of an eastern or western exposure window or within 2 to 5 feet of a southern exposure window.
Conditions : Full Sun
Full Sun is defined as exposure to more than 6 hours of continuous, direct sun per day.
Watering
Conditions : Normal Watering for Houseplants Houseplants that require normal watering should be watered so that soil is completely saturated and excess water runs out the bottom of the pot. Never water just a little bit; this allows mineral salts to build up in the soil. The key to normal watering is to allow the top inch or two of potting soil to dry out between waterings. Check frequently as certain times of the year may dictate that you water more frequently. Also, some plants that require normal watering during the growing season, may require less during the winter months when they are dormant.
Conditions : Normal Watering for Outdoor Plants
Normal watering means that soil should be kept evenly moist and watered regularly, as conditions require. Most plants like 1 inch of water a week during the growing season, but take care not to over water. The first two years after a plant is installed, regular watering is important for establishment. The first year is critical. It is better to water once a week and water deeply, than to water frequently for a few minutes.
Planting
Problems
Pest : Scale Insects Scales are insects, related to mealy bugs, that can be a problem on a wide variety of plants - indoor and outdoor. Young scales crawl until they find a good feeding site. The adult females then lose their legs and remain on a spot protected by its hard shell layer. They appear as bumps, often on the lower sides of leaves. They have piercing mouth parts that suck the sap out of plant tissue. Scales can weaken a plant leading to yellow foliage and leaf drop. They also produce a sweet substance called honeydew (coveted by ants) which can lead to an unattractive black surface fungal growth called sooty mold.
Prevention and Control: Once established they are hard to control. Isolate infested plants away from those that are not infested. Consult your local garden center professional or Cooperative Extension office in your county for a legal recommendation regarding their control. Encourage natural enemies such as parasitic wasps in the garden.