Persian carpet flower
edithcolea grandis
Also known as: ["Persian carpet plant","Adenium grandis"]
Overview
A succulent plant known for its unusual, mottled, and often brightly colored flowers that resemble Persian carpets.
Benefits & Perks
["rare/collector’s item","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Genus: | Edithcolea |
| Botanical Name: | Edithcolea grandis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with bright, direct light or outdoor in a rock garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent water retention.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or coarse sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically annually or when dead stems are present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, depending on the amount of dead or overgrown material.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, direct sunlight for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate full sun but benefits from some afternoon shade in very hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight to prevent scorching. Place in a spot with unobstructed light, but provide shade during peak summer heat if leaves show signs of stress.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Maximize light exposure; avoid dappled shade; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 10–14 days during active growth, reduce to monthly in dormancy
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries fully between waterings; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or rocky soil mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil dries quickly; avoid heavy, water-retentive mixes; use pots with drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures, ideally 70–85°F (21–29°C). Can tolerate brief periods down to 50°F (10°C) but thrives in warmth.
Protect from frost; avoid drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with diluted cactus fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; use a cactus-specific formula; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of offsets. Stem cuttings are the most common method for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy stem.
- Let it callus for a few days.
- Plant in dry soil.
- Water lightly after roots form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer, when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light and good air circulation.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 1–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife or scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; use sterile tools; maintain humidity until roots form.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems back to the base or a healthy node using clean, sharp tools.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning is needed. Focus on removing dead or damaged stems to maintain shape and health.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized knife, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; cut dead or damaged stems; clean up debris; inspect for pests.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot, ensuring good drainage.
Method
Remove the plant gently, trim any dead roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh cactus mix, and water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot only when the plant becomes root-bound or every 2–3 years to refresh the soil.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; inspect roots; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; discard excess water; water in morning.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution. Water until it drains from the bottom, then discard excess to prevent standing water. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry before night.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly during the growing season (spring/summer), allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in fall and winter to mimic its arid native environment.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to commercial cactus mix to enhance drainage and aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), stunted growth, or bud drop in cold; wilting or leaf burn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or fungal infections due to reduced metabolic activity.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid watering during cold spells; use a heat mat if necessary.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, leaf scorch, or wilting, especially if combined with inadequate water.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water early in the day; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season. Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicEdithcolea grandis is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicEdithcolea grandis is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicEdithcolea grandis is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. The plant has no documented toxic compounds or physiological impacts when ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Edithcolea grandis?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings, especially during dormancy.
Q: Does Edithcolea grandis require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in bright, direct sunlight, which encourages flowering.
Q: Why isn't my Edithcolea grandis flowering?
A: Insufficient light or overwatering can prevent flowering; ensure it gets ample sunlight and is not watered too frequently.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 10–14 days during acti |
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