Characteristics and origin of Fockea edulis
fockea edulis It is a fascinating climbing succulent plant of South African origin, appreciated by collectors and enthusiasts for its impressive caudex. It belongs to the Apocynaceae family. (previously classified in Asclepiadaceae). Its structure is notable for a large and tuberous caudex, with a sculptural texture and appearance, capable of reaching considerable size in adult specimens. This storage organ protrudes from the substrate or remains partially buried, and plays a key role in the species' survival during periods of drought.
The leaves of Fockea edulis They are deciduous, oblong, and deep green, and their foliage may be lost during the winter dormancy. The thin, elongated stems act as vines, easily exceeding 80 cm and, under ideal conditions, several meters in their natural environment. The flowers of Fockea edulis They are small, whitish to greenish in color, and may be scented, although they are not considered particularly showy.
Ideal lighting conditions and location
For pot cultivation, fockea edulis requires lots of indirect light, although it tolerates some periods of mild or direct sun in temperate climates. Ideally, keep the plant near a bright window if grown indoors, or in semi-shaded areas when grown outdoors. It is important to protect the caudex from direct sunlight., avoiding heat exhaustion that can damage or quickly dehydrate the skin. In warmer regions, it can be exposed to morning or late afternoon sun, keeping the caudex shaded throughout the day.
Temperature and protection
La fockea edulis It has good tolerance to a wide range of temperatures. Supports temperatures from 7-10°C minimum and even high levels typical of dry climates, but it must be protected from persistent frost and extreme cold. In winter, it is recommended to keep it indoors if temperatures drop below 7°C, although it can withstand mild cold and occasional frost if well dried. Excess moisture in cold weather is, however, especially harmful.
Recommended substrate and type of pot
One of the essential cares is the substratum. Requires a very draining mix, preferably mineral: akadama, pumice, gravel, perlite, or coarse sand, providing an airy environment and avoiding any type of waterlogging. For optimal health and development of the caudex, it is recommended to use deep pots that allow for root growth and expansion, although the size should be adjusted to the specific specimen. Clay pots, which facilitate the evaporation of excess water, are especially suitable..
Irrigation and fertilizer
La fockea edulis It is very resistant to drought, but sensitive to excess water. It should be watered very sparingly., especially outside the growing season. During spring and summer, watering should be moderate and applied only when the substrate is completely dry. In winter, watering should be reduced to a minimum, preventing the caudex from wrinkling due to lack of water. It is better to water less than more to prevent root rot.
El subscriber It is limited to the warm months of active growth, using low-nitrogen liquid fertilizers or fertilizers specifically for cacti and succulents. It can be fertilized once a month during spring and summer, alternating between conventional and nitrogen fertilizers, with the aim of promoting both caudex growth and vegetative development.
Pruning, transplanting and reproduction
- Pruning: It is recommended to prune branches after winter and before spring to control their growth and promote a more compact structure.
- Transplant: Ideally, transplanting should be done every two or three years, in spring, renewing part of the substrate to avoid compaction and allow for healthy root development.
- Reproduction: It propagates primarily by seed, as propagation by cuttings is not usually successful. For seed production, it is necessary to have both male and female plants, as it is a dioecious species and natural pollination is carried out by specific insects.
Pests, diseases and special care
Outside the fockea edulis It is usually kept free of pests, although in protected or very humid environments it may be susceptible to the appearance of mealybugs, aphids or whitefliesRegular monitoring and early intervention with specific insecticides or natural methods are usually sufficient to control these problems. The greatest threat is root rot caused by excess moisture, so respecting irrigation and drainage requirements is vital.
Regarding the caudex, It can grow faster if kept partially or completely buried., although this increases the risk of rot, so it's essential to adjust watering and use highly mineral substrates. Caudex growth often slows with age and may even stop in adult specimens.
Flowering and curiosities
Flowering It usually blooms in late spring or summer, producing small, greenish, fragrant flowers. The species is dioecious, so specimens of both sexes are required to obtain seeds, and the flowers are pollinated by insects such as the Fockea moth (Ancylosis fockeella). The caudex, although round, is usually napiform and is considered a botanical gem and a focal point in collector's gardens.
In its natural habitat, the term "edulis" refers to the edibility of its root once processed and cooked, although home consumption is not recommended due to the presence of toxic alkaloids. It can be grown as a succulent bonsai and is very long-lived, able to survive long periods of drought thanks to its water reserves.
