Welwitschia
welwitschia mirabilis
Also known as: ["Desert onion","Tweeblaarkanniedood"]
Overview
A unique gymnosperm plant native to the Namib Desert, characterized by two long, strap-like leaves that grow continuously throughout its lifespan.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","rare/collector’s item","long-flowering"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Gnetophyta |
| Class: | Gnetopsida |
| Order: | Welwitschiales |
| Family: | Welwitschiaceae |
| Genus: | Welwitschia |
| Botanical Name: | Welwitschia mirabilis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: desert garden or xeriscaped area with excellent drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy, or gritty soil with low organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically annually or when dead leaves are present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or diseased parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) in arid conditions; adjust to avoid excessive heat in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from scorching midday sun; place in a spot with unobstructed light but some shade during peak heat.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
expert onlychallenging
Sunlight
full sun
Use shade cloth in extreme heat; rotate plant for even light exposure; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, sandy soil with minimal organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a cactus/succulent mix; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Warm to hot (20–30°C/68–86°F) during growth; tolerate mild cold but prefer stable warmth.
Avoid drafts; maintain stable temperatures; protect from sudden drops.
Fertilizing
every 3 months with slow-release fertilizer during active growth
Use a cactus-specific fertilizer; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Seeds (primary method); rare vegetative propagation via offsets if available.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Sow seeds shallowly.
- Keep moist.
- Provide warmth.
- Transplant when seedlings are stable. For cuttings: take a healthy stem, let it callus, then plant in moist medium.
Best Time: Spring, when temperatures are warm and stable.
Environment
Warm (20–25°C/68–77°F), high humidity (60–70%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix (e.g., cactus/succulent soil with coarse sand or perlite).
Hormone
Not typically required for seeds; rooting hormone may help with cuttings if attempted.
Timeline
Seeds: 1–3 months to germinate; several years to mature. Cuttings: 4–8 weeks to root.
Tools Needed
Seed tray, well-draining soil, warmth source, humidity dome, sharp knife (for cuttings).
Quick Tips
Use fresh seeds for best germination; maintain consistent moisture; protect from pests.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip individual leaves at the base with clean cuts; avoid cutting into healthy tissue.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; focus on removing dead or damaged leaves to maintain health and aesthetics.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruners.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; remove only dead/damaged parts; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growth period.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 cm in diameter).
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot only when root-bound or soil is exhausted, typically every 3–5 years.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure good drainage; avoid over-potting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even saturation without pooling. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly during active growth (spring/summer), allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce or cease watering in winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to standard potting mix; ensure aeration and drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf discoloration, stunted growth, or rot in cold; scorching or leaf drop in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, weakens roots, and increases susceptibility to rot and pests.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots; reduce watering; use a heat mat if necessary.
Hot Stress
Causes dehydration, leaf burn, and premature aging of tissues.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water deeply but infrequently.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a low-nitrogen, balanced fertilizer (e.g., 5-10-10) diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring/summer; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicWelwitschia mirabilis is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects from ingestion of any part of the plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicWelwitschia mirabilis is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects from ingestion of any part of the plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicWelwitschia mirabilis is generally considered non-toxic, but its seeds and roots may cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested in large quantities. The plant contains compounds that can irritate the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long do Welwitschia plants typically live?
A: Welwitschia plants are known for their exceptional longevity, often living for over 1,000 years.
Q: What is the significance of the two leaves?
A: The two leaves are the only leaves the plant ever produces, and they grow continuously throughout its life, often becoming tattered and split over time.
Q: Can Welwitschia be grown outside its native habitat?
A: Welwitschia is extremely difficult to cultivate outside its native desert environment due to its specialized adaptations to extreme conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Welwitschiaceae |
| Care: | expert only |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks during activ |
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