About this variety
Dorstenia foetida (Grendelion)
Dorstenia foetida, commonly known as Grendelion, is a rare and highly sought-after succulent plant belonging to the Moraceae family. Native to the arid regions of East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, this fascinating plant is prized for its unique, alien-like flowering structures and compact growth habit. Ideal for collectors, Dorstenia foetida thrives in container gardens, terrariums, or arid landscapes where its unusual form can be appreciated.
Description
Dorstenia foetida is a dwarf succulent with a caudex-like base that stores water, making it highly drought-tolerant. The plant produces clusters of fleshy, green to slightly mottled leaves that radiate from the top of its thickened stem. Its most striking feature is its peculiar flowering structure, known as a hypanthium. These flat, disk-like flowers are dotted with tiny blooms in the center, surrounded by irregular lobes, giving them a truly otherworldly appearance.
The plant is compact, rarely exceeding 20 cm in height, and its slow growth rate and manageable size make it a perfect addition to any plant collection.
Uses and Benefits
• Ornamental Value: Dorstenia foetida is a centerpiece in succulent collections due to its unusual flowers and sculptural appearance.
• Low-Maintenance: Perfect for those who appreciate unique plants but have limited time for care.
• Indoor-Friendly: Thrives in pots and small containers, making it suitable for display on desks, shelves, or as part of a terrarium.
• Conversation Starter: Its intriguing shape and rare status make it a talking point among plant enthusiasts.
Cultivation and Growing Tips
Growing Dorstenia foetida is relatively straightforward, as it is a hardy plant adapted to dry, arid conditions.
• Soil Requirements: Use a well-draining soil mix, such as a cactus or succulent potting mix. Adding sand or grit improves drainage and prevents water retention.
• Light: Prefers bright, indirect sunlight. While it can tolerate partial shade, ample light encourages better flowering and healthy growth. Avoid direct afternoon sun, as it may scorch the leaves.
• Watering: Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. During the active growing season (spring and summer), water sparingly but regularly. Reduce watering in the dormant winter months to avoid root rot.
• Temperature and Humidity: Thrives in warm temperatures between 20–30°C and tolerates arid conditions. Protect from frost and temperatures below 10°C.
• Fertilization: Use a diluted, balanced fertilizer during the growing season to support foliage and flowering. Feed once a month for optimal results.
• Propagation: Easily propagated from seeds or offsets. Sow seeds on the surface of moist soil, keeping the environment warm (20–25°C) and humid until germination, which typically occurs within 2–4 weeks.
Unique Features
• Alien-Like Flowers: The flat, disk-like hypanthia with irregular lobes are a striking feature that sets this plant apart from other succulents.
• Water-Storing Caudex: Its swollen stem not only adds to its ornamental appeal but also helps it survive extended periods of drought.
• Adaptability: Suitable for small spaces, making it a favorite for indoor gardening and terrariums.
Appearance and Care Overview
The fleshy leaves, compact growth habit, and bizarre flowers of Dorstenia foetida make it a standout plant for collectors and succulent enthusiasts. Its low-maintenance requirements and drought tolerance ensure it thrives even in less-than-ideal conditions.
Shipping
Seeds and live plants are available for shipping within India and worldwide. Orders are carefully packaged to ensure they arrive in optimal condition. Dispatch is typically completed within 1–2 weeks.
Bring the extraordinary charm of Dorstenia foetida into your collection and enjoy the beauty and resilience of this rare and intriguing plant.
From Deodar Seeds Company.
Dorstenia foetida, commonly known as Grendelion, is a rare and highly sought-after succulent plant belonging to the Moraceae family. Native to the arid regions of East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, this fascinating plant is prized for its unique, alien-like flowering structures and compact growth habit. Ideal for collectors, Dorstenia foetida thrives in container gardens, terrariums, or arid landscapes where its unusual form can be appreciated.
Description
Dorstenia foetida is a dwarf succulent with a caudex-like base that stores water, making it highly drought-tolerant. The plant produces clusters of fleshy, green to slightly mottled leaves that radiate from the top of its thickened stem. Its most striking feature is its peculiar flowering structure, known as a hypanthium. These flat, disk-like flowers are dotted with tiny blooms in the center, surrounded by irregular lobes, giving them a truly otherworldly appearance.
The plant is compact, rarely exceeding 20 cm in height, and its slow growth rate and manageable size make it a perfect addition to any plant collection.
Uses and Benefits
• Ornamental Value: Dorstenia foetida is a centerpiece in succulent collections due to its unusual flowers and sculptural appearance.
• Low-Maintenance: Perfect for those who appreciate unique plants but have limited time for care.
• Indoor-Friendly: Thrives in pots and small containers, making it suitable for display on desks, shelves, or as part of a terrarium.
• Conversation Starter: Its intriguing shape and rare status make it a talking point among plant enthusiasts.
Cultivation and Growing Tips
Growing Dorstenia foetida is relatively straightforward, as it is a hardy plant adapted to dry, arid conditions.
• Soil Requirements: Use a well-draining soil mix, such as a cactus or succulent potting mix. Adding sand or grit improves drainage and prevents water retention.
• Light: Prefers bright, indirect sunlight. While it can tolerate partial shade, ample light encourages better flowering and healthy growth. Avoid direct afternoon sun, as it may scorch the leaves.
• Watering: Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. During the active growing season (spring and summer), water sparingly but regularly. Reduce watering in the dormant winter months to avoid root rot.
• Temperature and Humidity: Thrives in warm temperatures between 20–30°C and tolerates arid conditions. Protect from frost and temperatures below 10°C.
• Fertilization: Use a diluted, balanced fertilizer during the growing season to support foliage and flowering. Feed once a month for optimal results.
• Propagation: Easily propagated from seeds or offsets. Sow seeds on the surface of moist soil, keeping the environment warm (20–25°C) and humid until germination, which typically occurs within 2–4 weeks.
Unique Features
• Alien-Like Flowers: The flat, disk-like hypanthia with irregular lobes are a striking feature that sets this plant apart from other succulents.
• Water-Storing Caudex: Its swollen stem not only adds to its ornamental appeal but also helps it survive extended periods of drought.
• Adaptability: Suitable for small spaces, making it a favorite for indoor gardening and terrariums.
Appearance and Care Overview
The fleshy leaves, compact growth habit, and bizarre flowers of Dorstenia foetida make it a standout plant for collectors and succulent enthusiasts. Its low-maintenance requirements and drought tolerance ensure it thrives even in less-than-ideal conditions.
Shipping
Seeds and live plants are available for shipping within India and worldwide. Orders are carefully packaged to ensure they arrive in optimal condition. Dispatch is typically completed within 1–2 weeks.
Bring the extraordinary charm of Dorstenia foetida into your collection and enjoy the beauty and resilience of this rare and intriguing plant.
From Deodar Seeds Company.
